| KB Tremblay |
I strongly disagree with using a fighter or Alchemist to represent a witcher and so I had to make my first post in response :).
It sounds like a lot of folks are basing their opinions on the video game which (pun intended) do not properly represent the character Geralt in the novels. Most have not been translated to English, but I highly recommend at least reading the Last Wish. Fantastic book.
IMO, based on the actual books, a good representation of a Witcher is to take a bard and replace the perform feats with the brew potions and poisons feats. Here’s why:
Melee
Geralt only wears leather or studded leather armor. The only weapons he uses are longswords, dagger, weighted chain for trip attacks and some unarmed attacks like brawling and striking with studded bracers. He is an effective swordsman but never engages in ‘front line’ battles. He usually ambushes/surprises a single target, rarely fighting multiple foes. In one instance he avoids fighting a group of four brigands, stating he would likely not survive. He doesn’t show any great feats of strength but regularly displays exceptional agility, reflexes and dodging.
Magic
Athough Geralt does cast spells, in Pathfinder terms, they are all of first or second level arcane abilities. The spells he casts in the books three books I’ve read are hold portal, charm person, shield, hold person and something sim iliar to a magic missile. Geralt displays a dim view of wizards, sorcerers and magic in general. He views conjuring/summoning creatures dangerous to the land and avoids teleportation and other forms of magical travel.
Alchemy
Geralt displays a great amount of alchemy knowledge but again, the potions he creates only produce first or second level spell effects. These are increasing his dexterity, inducing a three day feign death and darkvision. He can brew poisons specific for certain supernatural creatures and knows some preventive healing knowledge.
Mutations
Here’s where things get a bit tricky. Geralt clearly states that witchers are sterile mutants created by conducting Alchemy experiments on orphans. His mutations slow his heartbeat, breathing and general metabolism. He can dilate his pupils and release adrenaline at will. Again, nothing that a first or second level spell can’t mimic.
So again, he’s pretty much a potion and poison brewing bard without perform abilities. Sorry for the long post, but I just wanted to add some substance to my suggestion.