Sneak Attack


Alpha Release 1 General Discussion


With the changes in sneak attack to affecting undead and constructs it's versatility has increased exponentially. Now, hopefully the rogue won't be forced to sit in the corner crying as his friends battle such creatures. This does however create a problem, sneak attack was balanced by this limitation; now, it would not be unheard of to simply skip out on a front-line warrior in favor of numerous rogues as it has become nearly too effective.

I propose to lower sneak attacks either from 1d6 to 1d4 or cut the progression in half. Damage is maintained against nearly all creatures yet cannot overrun the front-line bruisers for power.

A more complex fix would be to split backstabbing (where the target is flat-footed) and normal sneak-attacking (flanking etc...) into different categories, for example a 20th lvl rogue could deal only 5d6 on a sneak attack whereas a backstab would deal the normal, full 10d6.


The fighter's versatility and rapid feat progression still make it the premier damage dealer. The rogue's sneak attack has certainly grown more effective, but the class won't replace the fighter. What you will see more of, possibly, is fighter/rogue builds to maximize the damage output of both. The fighter still has its draws.

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