The problem with this design is that there even is a cap in the first place. :-/
While Half-Orc that will study his whole life can reach Int 20 ...
He will spend double time than a Gnome, who can reach the same in much shorter time ...
Funny (and the problematic) part is that once any of them reach that point ... no matter what they study, no matter how hard they try, no matter anything ... they will never get to 21 and beyond.
Sure, this only works when your character is focused on single Ability Score ... since logicaly, once you reach your limit in one aspect, its about time to start focusing on something else, so in general, the Gnome will still be few steppes ahead (unless he decide to start Workout
).
But still ...
The problem i personaly have (and i would bet im not alone) with ability scores is that while you are training, you get stronger and stronger and stronger (or smarter, or flexible, or tough, you get the idea) ... and then sudently it goes *ding* and no matter how hard you will keep training, you never get any stronger ... and you can only watch that little Gnome to reach the same power as you have.
I completely understand its basicaly just game ballance rule.
But honestly i believe its jut matter of wich kind of players are sitting by your table ... since you either piss off those who will complain "his character is better just bcs he picked this race" ... or you piss off those who will complain "his character is just as good as mine even tho he picked this race" ...
I must say im surprised to see you defending this Niara.
Since you dislike that WotC are wiping out any difference between our races ... i would expect you to vote in favour to distinguish them even more, by allowing those with inherit predispositions to get their score one step futher.
Gues i was wrong.
Personaly ... and this may not be the most popular opinion.
I would like it if Racial Bonus would apply AFTER you reach limit of 20 ... instead of before.
Since i really like that idea that no matter how hard you train, if your race is naturaly smart, naturaly strong, naturaly flexible, etc. ... even though you reached apex of mortal capabilities, your apex is still a one tiny-step futher, than the others. :P
