Multi-Classed Semi-Human Clerics

[Matthew]

I recently noticed this sentence in the PHB:

A character must have a minimum wisdom ability score of 9 (13 if a multi-classed half-elven cleric but 9 if a multi-classed half-orc cleric).

As far as I can tell, it is the only instance of the multi-class character requiring higher attributes in his selected classes than normal, and is unrelated to race based attribute requirements, but maybe there are others. Does anybody have any insight?

[grodog]

I thought that this was a remnant from OD&D or Holmes, but I can't find any evidence of that.

The Wisdom table on p. 11 reinforces the same rule but doesn't otherwise elaborate on it, nor does the multi-class descriptions or class options on pgs. 32-33. There's nothing snuck into the rest of the attribute descriptions either.

Curiouser and curiouser....

[Falconer]

“Half-elves are able to progress simultaneously in both the fighter and magic-user classes … half-elves with a basic wisdom score of 13 or more may also become clerics. If they so opt all experience will be divided in equal proportions between fighting, magic use, and clericism.” —Greyhawk, p. 6

“half-elves are able to progress simultaneously in two or three categories, i.e. fighter/magic-user or fighter/magic-user/cleric (if wisdom is 13 or greater).” —Monster Manual, p. 39

It is the single-class Half-elf which is the anomaly, or at least virgin territory for the PHB.

[Matthew]

Ahah! Well spotted, Falconer!

[genghisdon]

I recently noticed this sentence in the PHB:

A character must have a minimum wisdom ability score of 9 (13 if a multi-classed half-elven cleric but 9 if a multi-classed half-orc cleric).

As far as I can tell, it is the only instance of the multi-class character requiring higher attributes in his selected classes than normal, and is unrelated to race based attribute requirements, but maybe there are others. Does anybody have any insight?

It's about the only such thing for PC's in 1e.

You can find similar things for monsters or non standard characters, but that's not really the same thing;
EX Cambions are always effectively fighters, but can become MU as well if their INT is quite high: "Those whose intelligence exceeds 14 can, with proper training, follow the practice of magic use with a maximum of 5th-level ability."

1.5e gamers probably ought have the 13 rule applied to dwarven, gnomish & elven multi classed clerics

It's really of little consequence however, as I don't see players making clerics with wisdom under 13 anyway (they want bonus spells & no spell failure). Even half orc clerics always have 13 or 14 wisdom

[grodog]

I thought that this was a remnant from OD&D or Holmes, but I can't find any evidence of that.

I was thinking of the rules for the human Character with Two Classes:

Unlike multi-classed characters who are of non- or semi-human race, the character with two classes must be human. To attain the second class, the character must switch his or her profession at some point. Thereafter no progression in the original class is possible. In order to switch from one class to another, the character must have an
ability score of 15 or more in the principal attribute(s) ability of the original class and a 17 or 18 in the principal attribute(s) of the class changed to.

[Matthew]

Not to worry, Allan! Thanks for your input!