In my campaigns, the players are the center of the town or cities attention, at 15-20th level the continent’s attention, and they draw even the eyes of gods at epic levels. It helps them think they matter, and I easily compensate in being a completely sadistic DM.

For abilities I go like this:
1: I decide how many points my characters should have all in all
2: I distribute(is that the right word?) the points on 6 values, but I dont say “this is the strengh value and this is that” and write those values down.
I do that 4 times ( 4 characters in my group)
3: I hand the papers out to the group and let them make out who gets wich paper
4: then they can decide how they stick their 6 values to their attributes

That way I can prevent 8-18 characters and still allow my players to have a little control over what they get

Is it any good? You tell me.
http://arsludi.lamemage.com/blog/rules/?permalink=d20-Point-Buy-Wild-Card-Option.html

Anyway, since we’re on the topic of rolling ability scores, I want to share what my group does. We feel that rolling characters is a pivotal and exciting part of the game and try to add a little flair to it. We use the usual 4d6 drop the lowest method. But, when it’s time to roll new characters, we each go around the table and roll individually. When it’s someone’s time to roll, they will only roll 3d6, then add up those numbers before the final d6 roll. The moments before the final d6 roll adds a level of suspense and “action” to the rolling of characters. Everyone is always bent over the table, awaiting that last roll.

That last d6 roll can be the difference between a 7 or 12, or between a 10 or 15. A lot falls on that final d6 roll, and it’s always fun to make it more “game like.”

Just thought I would share. Keep up the great posting!