RM/RM 2 by a wide margin. My only complaint was the excessive character classes (crystal mage, houri, really?)
The perfect example of the difference of the two systems is the paladin spell Retributive Strike.
The RM 2 spell was extremely potent, which was warranted considering the Player Character was giving up his life, going kamikaze and channeling the power of the gods for one last blaze of glory.
The RMSS version of said spell is no more fantastic than the fireball of a level 20 magician. Not exactly an ample reward for your sacrifice, from a paladin's perspective.
I believe that games are a compromise between the GM trying to hold together world balance, and players trying to achieve their own unique dreams. If the players rule the day, inflation takes hold and the next thing you know everyone has a +300 sword. If GM's run their ship too tight then suddenly your players will get "busy with real life" and won't have the time to game anymore. The idea of gaming is fun, but it's an experience they can live without...
On the other hand, if your game runs the opposite you end up with my current problem. Running such an open ended RM2 system requires a huge commitment of time from the GM. It can be a drain. Add to that the demands and questions of several engaged players and your work and life can become compromised. Players are being left out because I simple cannot accommodate all the people at the table, which is astounding considering they are all flying from across the country to play here. It is difficult to tell a friend "I am so sorry, but we simply have no room for you at the next session..." how do you not invite someone you've known for over a decade who really wants to play and is willing to fork out a thousand bucks to get here? Not fun at all. I was considering expanding my sessions to 2 or even 3 separate groups before my wife had to pull me aside and explain that I had lost my freaking mind, and that the time I was putting into the game as opposed to working on my photography or my novel, or spending time with her, was already excessive. That's the other edge of the sword when the game is going really well: GM burnout.
Anyway, back to the shadows go I.
I only check the forums once a month, and rarely post anymore because of the above reasons, and because my methods and unique viewpoints seemed to upset the local applecart. Once you start to see torches and pitchforks, its best to pick up your toys and go play somewhere else.
