[Morgeruat]

Sounds like a great Idea, Az, I greatly enjoy 2nd ed and don't own any 3e books or other source material (aside from NWN) perhaps 2nd ed with a house rule allowing any class/race combo (as long as you can meet the stat requirements)

I like the idea of higher level characters, but fear it would overpower certain classes (ie thieves would have little chance except in a "boiler room brawl" ie seek and destroy in an enclosed space, such as a warehouse) mages would be coming into their own as powerhouses, and finally able to compete with warriors, I do fear that it may make the battles a bit... one sided.

I think one magic item, of decent power (no greater than +3 weapons, or overly powerful wands/staves/rods)

as far as stat points, I feel the 85 point cap Cerek had is a god idea, and keeps characters balanced.

optional "monster" fights would be fun, ie a group of gladiators vs a horde of goblins, or even a young dragon they would definitely keep people coming back for more punishment.

the other things I think would work well. good luck generating interest enough to run the show.