How do you handle hirelings in #bx #ose #osr?
I don't think the rules do a good job explaining what do you can use them for. I like a clearer distinction between something like a porter or torchbearer and a full blown retainer. My players really struggle to justify sharing treasure and therefore xp for a retainer no matter what advantages they could bring to the table.
I can also see the use of mercs and specialists but the whole domain play thing isn't really something we are utilizing
@elmcat in my BX games they're used as a few things: backup characters, extra muscle, and errand runners.
When a primary character dies a lot of people will just switch to playing their retainer. They're often used at my table to round out parties that are too small or for venturing into dungeons that seem too dangerous. My players generally don't mind missing out on some extra gold or XP to know that they have the safety of numbers.
@bluelander interesting. The idea of backup characters is certainly compelling!
How much fleshed out is a retainer then in your game? Like do you determine all the stats or does this happen once a hireling becomes a primary character?
@elmcat It depends on the group, some people like having them fleshed out and others flesh them out whenever it becomes necessary for whatever reason.