Originally Posted by
Yora
Sure it can be in the PHB, but then class descriptions should have first the basic class featured and then follow with boxes for optional rules.
The problem isn't so much picking a class ability at level up, but being swamped with class features during gameplay.
In AD&D fighters had passive bonuses to their attack and damage rolls depending on their weapon proficiencies, and thieves could backstab when they join a fight and for the most part that was perfectly fine.
It doesn't have to be that simple. Having three maneuvers and two attacks per round as a 7th level fighter and rogues being able to sneak attack every round for 2d6 extra damage is fine. If you keep it that simple and allow people to play such a simple game, and also giving the option to play a more complex game, everyone can be happy.
If you cram everything in the basic non-optional rules, only the battle chess players are happy.
I think rules creep is the greatest threat for 5th Edition becomming a good game.