When I played AD&D we never used hired help, no henchmen or hirelings, if ever we'd use multiple characters and Charisma was the dump stat.
However, I think this was because we only ever played standard modules, and if you consider that then there is probably no need for hired help, either because the module is unconcerned with the logistics of travel or because it forced NPCs on the players.
I really only started with hired help when I played Basic edition during the revival period and in campaign style adventures, one group went hard into hired help and had a small army of specialists to set up camp outside the treasure trove and guard the wagons whilst the party made repeated trips to gradually clear out the dungeon.
Since then, I've always been keen to get retainers/henchmen, having a high Charisma is now desirable, I quite like having a little army. However, most DMs I play with aren't so keen, limiting the availability or making it difficult, which is a shame.
Never really used hirelings and henchmen, but my D&D experience is 3.5. But I see the potential value in them.
Excellent episode.
When I played AD&D we never used hired help, no henchmen or hirelings, if ever we'd use multiple characters and Charisma was the dump stat.
However, I think this was because we only ever played standard modules, and if you consider that then there is probably no need for hired help, either because the module is unconcerned with the logistics of travel or because it forced NPCs on the players.
I really only started with hired help when I played Basic edition during the revival period and in campaign style adventures, one group went hard into hired help and had a small army of specialists to set up camp outside the treasure trove and guard the wagons whilst the party made repeated trips to gradually clear out the dungeon.
Since then, I've always been keen to get retainers/henchmen, having a high Charisma is now desirable, I quite like having a little army. However, most DMs I play with aren't so keen, limiting the availability or making it difficult, which is a shame.
Ya know.. thinking… a lot of people who use hirelings and henchmen, are B/X players. Huh. Interesting.