how template work in the mm

[CyberThread]

So to put it simply templates are another variant rule which have no cost. They fall under the dm allows it if he wishes and is aware of the added bonuses they give a potential player.

It seems the logic is if you allow players to be more powerful then normal instead of punishing the player and making them give up something. The dm should simply make the encounters harder to keep the game difficult no matter how they decide to make characters.

[pwykersotz]

Is there some method of quantification for how powerful individual templates make a character or NPC? Something that would help gauge relative power between templates? Or is that up to us to figure out?

[Chaosvii7]

Is there some method of quantification for how powerful individual templates make a character or NPC? Something that would help gauge relative power between templates? Or is that up to us to figure out?

The only concern regarding template usage, really. Even if they were all balanced around common mechanics or sets of benefits there would still be better and worse options for templates.

That said, I think that so long as they aren't overpowering, they can be done right well. They almost seem like they're a good alternative to magic items due to the scarcity of them in this edition, and they can serve a similar function; A player character going on a quest to inherit the blood of a good-aligned dragon and become a Half Dragon sounds like a great story hook.