TSR Best Way to Replicate AD&D?

[Man in the Funny Hat]

I really enjoy 1E AD&D. It's not all because of nostalgia (but it helps). I would happily railroad new players into enjoying it with me upon pain of death - but then they'd have me there to help them get past all the foofaraw. For anyone trying to get into AD&D (even 2E) on their own it will fight them. AD&D does it's own gatekeeping and always has. I think OSRIC might be a good alternative, but IMO when it comes down to it - if it's AD&D you truly WANT, then accept no substitutes. Wanting something simpler, easier to reference, easier to teach/learn, etc. it actually does mean that you DON'T really want AD&D. AD&D has flaws. A lot of them. Some big, some little. You either can get into it/get over it, or you play something that to one degree or another is actually not AD&D.

 

[CleverNickName]

I think OSRIC might be a good alternative, but IMO when it comes down to it - if it's AD&D you truly WANT, then accept no substitutes. Wanting something simpler, easier to reference, easier to teach/learn, etc. it actually does mean that you DON'T really want AD&D. AD&D has flaws. A lot of them. Some big, some little. You either can get into it/get over it, or you play something that to one degree or another is actually not AD&D.

I agree (except BECMI instead of AD&D). This isn't an insult to the many different OSR games out there--I've played a handful and many of them are very good!--just an acknowledgement that even the best of them can't recapture the feel of the original. Those flaws and weird mechanics are integral to the way the game is played and enjoyed, and the game won't be the same without them. Some changes are bigger than others, but they're still changes and you will notice them.

Anyway. Play the game you love! If you are looking for a modern alternative to the classic D&D you remember, and you're willing to accept that certain things are going to be different, I recommend Castles & Crusades. But if you truly want to recapture the full experience of playing BECM, accept no substitutes. Go buy the PDFs, summon your friends, and play the original.

 

[Krachek]

Dont worry to keep your book.
Playing ADnD without the book and not knowing the rules is in line with my memories.