Can Carnivalist Rogues get Improved Familiar?


Rules Questions

Radiant Oath

Pathfinder Adventure Path, Lost Omens, Rulebook, Starfinder Adventure Path, Starfinder Roleplaying Game, Starfinder Society Subscriber

I think the idea of a fun-loving rogue with a pseudodragon buddy is both cool to play and adorable as all get-out (Word of James, pseudodragons are the cutest improved familiars!).

But does it actually work that way, since Rogues aren't arcane spellcasters, and thus don't meet the "arcane spellcaster level" requirements of an improved familiar? Or would you say that as long as the rogue is a certain level and has the right alignment it's pretty much okay?

Scarab Sages

I would argue that it's okay, and allow it, but by RAW you don't qualify for selecting familiars from the list because you have no arcane caster level.

Grand Lodge

Pathfinder PF Special Edition, Starfinder Roleplaying Game Subscriber

You're treated as an arcane caster -4 if you take the rogue talent that lets you get a familliar.

You can take the improved familliar feat at 11th level to get your dragon buddy.

Alternatively, you could also take one as a cohort.


The problem is a lot of your carnavalist abities need an animal


Since the SLA ruling, if you take the Minor Magic talent, you count your rogue levels as caster levels.

Also, I see literally no reason why you wouldn't go Carnivalist 2 MAAAAYBE 4 and then vivisectionist (hint:tumor familiar).


For PFS it probably isn't kosher-- most home game DMs would probably allow it?


I know this thread is a bit dated, but LoneKnave, to what ruling are you referring?

Community / Forums / Pathfinder / Pathfinder First Edition / Rules Questions / Can Carnivalist Rogues get Improved Familiar? All Messageboards

Want to post a reply? Sign in.