There’s also an issue where fantasy fiction can’t get away from this idea of fantasy “races” with “cool powers”. It adds this additional layer of representation that needs to happen when it’s already difficult to make real human cultures and groups feel represented in a game without infinite NPCs or world-building. Humans tend to be one or two cultures and the other “races” get coded as others. Most games would be better off without including the unquestioned trope of “fantasy races” (yes, D&D included) unless they actually built their setting and game around the idea (which most have not).
Yes, you could. The most math you ever have to do is divide by 2, add 3. It’s time consuming but it’s not difficult. The hardest part (which DDB can help with even if you’re NOT using the character sheet) is just searching for lists of valid options (i.e. a list of spells you are eligible for, a list of feats, etc.)