I've just installed TOEE, with the CO8 expanded patch and Temple+.

I played the gold box games many years ago, but recently haven't had much experience with D&D games, but this one seems fascinating, but a bit overwhelming initially.

I was looking for recommendations for a starting party. Not one that's min-maxed, just an interesting and somewhat sensible one.

Perhaps with the following constraints:

1. No multi-classing planned (I like to keep my party members quite distinct in their roles even if it isn't optimal).
2. 5 different classes
3. 5 different races
4. All characters built with the standard 25 points (not random rolling).

Probably with a Neutral Good alignment but I'm flexible with that.

I ideally want a party that lets me experience the most aspects of the game, e.g. I'd prefer two casters to have different spells than the same ones, I'd prefer wizards over sorcerers (I think) because wizards can learn every spell in the game (eventually) even if they're not optimal, I'd also like options to use a variety of weapons and armour types.

I started trying to do this but got a bit overwhelmed, firstly by just working out what races to match with what classes, and then what feats to pick etc. If an answer could detail this that would be ideal.

Given your restrictions I suggest a party like this:


Half-Orc Barbarian 19-14-14-6-8-6
You need someone strong enough to overcome damage reduction. Raise strength at level ups.

Half-Elf Rogue 13-14-12-14-8-12
Diplomat with many skillpoints. Raise strength next.

Human Cleric of Pelor 14-10-12-8-17-8
High strength for wearing full plate. Raise wisdom at level ups.

Dwarf Druid 13-14-14-8-16-6
Summoner with powerful animal companion. Start with SF Conjuration and take the Augment Summoning feat next. Raise wisdom at level ups.

Elf Wizard 11-16-12-16-8-8
Raise only int at level up.

Fantastically detailed many thanks, particularly on what stats to raise! Looks interesting. Any recommendations on what feats and skills I should be taking initially? (you've mentioned feats for the druid only I think).

With the cleave feat (requires taking power attack first) the barbarian can get extra attacks. Improved initiative is very useful for everyone and dodge is also useful.

As for skills:
Wizards need spellcraft as high as possible. Concentration is useful for spellcasters. Having at least one point in tumble grants a check to avoid attacks of opportunity. Early on in town I'd have the rogue focus on diplomatic skills.

If you just want to jump into the game, try using the pre-gen PCs available in the default list when you assemble your party. None of them are optimized, but they offer a way to ease you into familiarity with the feats/skills etc.

Also with the Co8 mod, you can add/remove PCs to your party at the Welcome Wench tavern. Plus there are tons of NPCs throughout the game who are willing to join for the right price. Later on, you can even Dominate enemy NPCs to join the party. So your initial party composition is by no means set in stone.

My favorite play-style is to roll up a Bard specializing in the enchantment school and a jack-of-all-trades skill-set, who starts solo and then hires a bunch of NPCs from the many available in Homlett. Much fun can be had using the bard's powers to charm or fascinate monsters throughout the adventure...