I've seen it done many different ways, but yeah, I'd cut the number down based on INT allowing the players to choose. If you're using the Building Points system, there is some argument that it can overwrite the initial bonus language rule (table 1D).
So, everyone knows a native language except a 1 INT and INT tells you their bonus languages. These are not automatic in HM4e but must be added via building points or learned in the course of adventure. As the wording in some parts of the book is vague and/or contradictory, the GM has a wide latitude to adjudicate this.
The rulebook does repeat that "you can never know more languages than your Intelligence allows," albeit in different words. The errata for 4e adds to the race listings "The number of languages a can learn is limited by his Intelligence or by the Building Points/training he devotes to languages."
I would go with whatever suits you adventure. Not having a 'common' language between the masses makes things difficult.
One example - All get Common free, but must use building points to gain others while non-Humans are restricted to the languages in the racial descriptions at character creation. All are bound by the bonus languages in table 1D barring extraordinary circumstances.
Another example why I wish they would have done a nice edit and reprint of HM4e before running off to some foreign system.
So, everyone knows a native language except a 1 INT and INT tells you their bonus languages. These are not automatic in HM4e but must be added via building points or learned in the course of adventure. As the wording in some parts of the book is vague and/or contradictory, the GM has a wide latitude to adjudicate this.
The rulebook does repeat that "you can never know more languages than your Intelligence allows," albeit in different words. The errata for 4e adds to the race listings "The number of languages a
I would go with whatever suits you adventure. Not having a 'common' language between the masses makes things difficult.
One example - All get Common free, but must use building points to gain others while non-Humans are restricted to the languages in the racial descriptions at character creation. All are bound by the bonus languages in table 1D barring extraordinary circumstances.
Another example why I wish they would have done a nice edit and reprint of HM4e before running off to some foreign system.
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