In the back of the 1st edition players book, perhaps appendix #2, there was listed the optional class for Bard. My question is; what were the levels for each class ? The original Bard was a Ftr / Thf / Dru. But I do not recall at what level you would change class. It was similar to 4th Ftr, then switch to Thf at least 1lvl higher, then switch to Dru at which time you were a Bard using the experience chart in the appendix. Thinking of running one in the party to see how well it works.
Fighter: At least 5th, 6th or 7th level (the max!) Thief: At least 7th, 8th or 9th level (the max!) then Bard, levels 0-23. There was no restriction on being one level higher, so you could be 7/7 level-wise. Also, they could benefit from the various and sundry literary works that increased levels, so they could conceivably obtain extra levels. They are always bound by the restrictions on Bards, and could not thus become level 9 as a fighter (Lord) and attract a body of fighting men, as no Bard would construct a stronghold until the 23rd level. Arguably, the most powerful character in the game. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bard_(Dungeons_&_Dragons)#First_Edition
I should not be amazed at what you can find on wikipedia. they have an awesome library of crap on their web site. Bards are fair characters. they're good in a pinch, they have great charm capabilities in 3.5 but they are fairly weak characters when it comes to solo or small parties. they are a great 3rd or 4rth character for a party. but that's about it. i suppose if the bard gets scather quick, then he'd rock. but anyone would rock with scather.
i do remember from 1st edition reading about the bards. i even started a fighter thief on the journey to bard hood, but i never finished the thief part. i joined the army and he vaporized into the winds of limbo.
