Worked on some stats last night, just need some advice from you guys. I either gonna play a human or half-elf and I'm trying to decide among three classes: fighter, paladin, or ranger.
Thoughts as to what would best fit the group?
Worked on some stats last night, just need some advice from you guys. I either gonna play a human or half-elf and I'm trying to decide among three classes: fighter, paladin, or ranger.
Thoughts as to what would best fit the group?
We're going to need a well-armored, high hit point, damage-dealing "tank" of a warrior, because none of the other characters in our party will be capable of that.
And, though a ranger might fit really well with a jungle-themed adventure, you'd need to make him a two-weapon fighter rather than a ranged specialist to fulfill that kind of role for the party. In addition, a ranger is going to wear lighter armor and forego a shield, which isn't going to give him the high AC we'll need for a frontline warrior. So, from a flavor standpoint, I'd say a ranger would be great. But, from a needs perspective to enhance our combined capabilities as a team, you should probably go with a fighter or paladin instead.
So, fighter or paladin? There are advantages to each.
Pathfinder paladins are simply the best at meting out damage to evil opponents. And, their mercy ability can enhance a party's survivability factor with lay on hands healing, cure disease, etc. Considering we'll be going into the deep dark jungle, I'm figuring some of that stuff could easily come up. So paladin might be a really good choice. But we'll also have a single-class cleric in the party, so you'd really only be backing him up in that area. So, the need for that isn't as great as it might otherwise be.
Fighters, on the other hand, are simply the best at combat regardless of an opponent's alignment. They get such a variety of feats...many of which only a fighter can take advantage of...that you'll have maximum versatility in enhancing and growing his combat options. Moreso than a paladin or ranger, at least. In addition, fighters are the only ones who get to take advantage of armor training (to reduce movement penalties) and weapon training (to make themselves even more effective with their favorite weapons). If you go this route, I might also recommend (if David approves it) the optional fighter variant in the Pathfinder Chronicles Campaign Setting to trade in your 1st level bonus feat for improved skill points and class skills. It's worth it in the long run and would ensure you'd have more to offer in non-combat scenes. Also, if you go with a human rather than a half-elf, you'll make up that lost feat with your bonus feat for being human.
Here's the rules for the fighter option if you're interested:
Numerous martial academies around the Inner Sea region teach weapon skill, tactics, diplomacy, and other tools useful for war. Fighters who attend these schools may choose the above option, which replaces the bonus feat gained upon taking the first level of fighter.
Class Skills: A fighter trained at a famous war college or fighting school gains the following class skills (in addition to the normal fighter class skills): Diplomacy (Cha), Gather Information (Cha), Knowledge (architecture and engineering) (Int), Knowledge (geography) (Int), Knowledge (nobility and royalty) (Int), Sense Motive (Wis).
Skill Points at 1st Level: (4 + Int modifier) × 4.
Skill Points at Each Additional Level: 4 + Int modifier.
Note: The rules for this option predate the Pathfinder RPG Core Rulebook. So, they rely on 3.5 skills and you'd need to tweak this option slightly to make it work. For instance, Gather Information is already rolled up into Diplomacy, so it's redundant. And you no longer have a multiplier for skill points at 1st level. You'd just get 4 plus anything extra for your Intelligence modifier (and possibly the human racial bonus). Everything else still works.
Wis 11 will let him read 1st level scrolls without the double emulation roll....Wands don't have an ability requirement, do they? I thought they were just a flat 20.
That's correct. You don't need the requisite ability score to cast a spell off a wand. It's a spell trigger item rather than a spell completion item. Scrolls are the latter. That's why they have the ability score requirement woven into them.
You literally have to use that same ability score to properly decipher and complete a spell stored on a scroll. But, as long as you can rely on Use Magic Device to activate a wand, you're only triggering a spell that's already been fully completed by the spellcaster who originally crafted the wand in the first place.
The only requirement when activating a wand is that you have to have that particular spell on your class list. And Use Magic Device is what lets you emulate that. Meanwhile, anyone who already has the spell on their class list, doesn't have to fake it at all. They can use the wand without the need for Use Magic Device.
A possible thought for Origen....A Wisdom of 13 seems high for his Lovecraftian background. What do you think of the following modifications?
Wis 8 (lots of nightmares, etc.)
Con 14I'll probably pick up UMD at L2, but just one rank for using wands. Instead, I'd put the points probably into either Perception or Sense Motive.
That'll work. And with an 8 Wis, your Use Magic Device skill just won't let you use divine scrolls. I actually like that you're going that route, because I'm planning on having Jonagher focus more on using scrolls, even purchasing a few here and there as single-use resources to overcome specific obstacles in the course of his dungeon delving. Meanwhile, we can both back up Frik if he eventually carries something like a wand of cure light wounds, etc.
We're going to need a well-armored, high hit point, damage-dealing "tank" of a warrior, because none of the other characters in our party will be capable of that.Worked on some stats last night, just need some advice from you guys. I either gonna play a human or half-elf and I'm trying to decide among three classes: fighter, paladin, or ranger.
Thoughts as to what would best fit the group?
Yep, this is absolutely correct. This party will need someone who can stand up front and go toe-to-toe with the hordes of darkness.
Of these three options, my personal inclination is to nudge you toward the fighter. The ranger has the mechanical limitations already described by Neil. The paladin makes me slightly nervous because of alignment strictures and 'The Code'. I know this is a goodly-aligned party, but I'd still want to have some discussion with you about how you'd role-play a paladin (just to head off any party-breaking situations down the line).
And, the fighter variant would be on the table for you if you wanted to pursue that option. No problem.
Sully, I had a look at Leofrik's mechanics.
Did you specify a favored class for him? I can't seem to find it on the sheet. If it's cleric, of course, he is entitled to a bonus hit point or skill point.
Otherwise, he looks just fine (pending spells and a background).
I'd prefer Perception if we could houserule a trait like Suspicious except for Perception (switching out Focused Mind).
I'd be okay with a house rule like this. Call the trait 'Watchful' or 'Alert' or something similar, if you like.
|
I'd prefer Perception if we could houserule a trait like Suspicious except for Perception (switching out Focused Mind).I'd be okay with a house rule like this. Call the trait 'Watchful' or 'Alert' or something similar, if you like.
Thanks! Given that we'll be exploring trap-filled ruins and facing off against assassins, I don't want to be an absent-minded professor. I think that I'll call it "Watchful" or "Eye for Danger" to avoid any confusion with Alertness.
I'll raise Con to 14 and either drop Wis to 8 or Chr to 16, probably the former.
|
|
I actually like that you're going that route, because I'm planning on having Jonagher focus more on using scrolls, even purchasing a few here and there as single-use resources to overcome specific obstacles in the course of his dungeon delving. Meanwhile, we can both back up Frik if he eventually carries something like a wand of cure light wounds, etc.
Yes, I think that it will work out better given Origen's background, Jonagher's focus on UMD, and the way the skill works with scrolls. Origen needs reliable touch attacks. He's better off using Vampiric Touch (especially with the Pathfinder upgrade in its power) rather than rolling twice to cast Inflict Serious Wounds off a scroll. And with high Chr, he'll have a good chance using a wand to revive Frik if the other casters all go down.
As for purchasing scrolls for rarely used spells, I heartily agree with that strategy, especially given Origen's limited spell list.
As for purchasing scrolls for rarely used spells, I heartily agree with that strategy, especially given Origen's limited spell list.
Sounds like a plan.
I'll be working on Jonagher's backstory over the weekend. I plan on referencing some contact with at least a couple of you...i.e., Frik and Oringen, mostly Pathfinder-related. I've got a very specific reason why the Pathfinders will mean something to Jonagher. So everyone check back in to read over his background and confirm you're okay with the connections I'm making.
Thanks,
--Neil
As I think I've said three or four times before, I think Torden is up and ready to go :).
After doing some reading I made some tweaks to abilities and also swapped cure light for sleep.
I think I have properly updated and adjusted skill points and bonuses, etc.
I think Torden fits his background more than he is optimized, but I can see how come second and third level his new profession as an adventuring bard would press him toward ranks in other things and selecting other spells.
Once again . . . please let me know if there's something I missed :)
|
|
And, the fighter variant would be on the table for you if you wanted to pursue that option. No problem.
I think that this variant is great for a fighter in a longer game. By L5, you've given up one feat in exchange for 10 skill points. And I don't know if any of the other PCs have ranks in Survival, which we're likely to need.
You could also consider dipping into ranger to increase your number of class skills and to get the +2 favored enemy bonus. I'm not sure if that's as good an idea, though.
As an aside, given that the favored class bonus works very similarly to the feat Toughness, it would be nice to have a Skillful or Knowledgeable general feat that grants an extra skill point (or two) per level. This could help mitigate the skill pain for two-point classes. (Origen couldn't take it, though; he needs Precise Shot for rays.)
|
|
I'll be working on Jonagher's backstory over the weekend. I plan on referencing some contact with at least a couple of you...i.e., Frik and Origen, mostly Pathfinder-related. I've got a very specific reason why the Pathfinders will mean something to Jonagher. So everyone check back in to read over his background and confirm you're okay with the connections I'm making.
I'll do the same. As a fellow Pathfinder, you'd at least know that Origen's father Aurelien was a noted Pathfinder who disappeared on an expedition to Sargava. Origen is the only member of the expedition known to have made it back to Absalom.
|
|
After doing some reading I made some tweaks to abilities and also swapped cure light for sleep.
Cure light is a good spell for bards to have. Sleep would be very helpful too, but you'd probably need to switch it out at some point.
I think Torden fits his background more than he is optimized . . .
Is his background open, or do you want to reveal it in-game? I'm curious, but can wait for the slow reveal if that's your preference.
Is his background open, or do you want to reveal it in-game? I'm curious, but can wait for the slow reveal if that's your preference.
His background is open. He doesn't exactly have a mysterious background.
I don't want him to seem naive, he's seen a lot in his travels, so I don't want him to be the Brody to Indiana Jones, but almost there. Very learned and well traveled, but perhaps not exactly aware of what it means to delve into the dungeons. He's used to standing in a museum and reading about the results of the delvers.
If that's not obtuse enough for you . . .
As far as the "Mists" opening, I can foresee Torden, given some piece of knowledge, grouped with the rest of the group--during which time he discovers what it is Pathfinders do. (Not to put to much into the GM's mouth.)
Thanks for all of your suggestions - I was leaning heavily toward fighter anyway, and so that's what I'll go with: human fighter. Not sure about the variant option, but will consider it.
Another question: is everyone gonna be a member of the Pathfinder Society and choose a region of allegiance?
|
|
Background will be done by Saturday morning. Work is crazy and my band has a show to play tomorrow night, so I won't be home until 2-3 in the morning.
He'll be done Saturday...totally done...and I'll be ready to game on Monday!
Cool. What kind of music does your band play?
Will the background be open for us to look at, or do you want to reveal it in-game?
As I think I've said three or four times before, I think Torden is up and ready to go :).
Once again . . . please let me know if there's something I missed :)
Having noted the changes made to Torden's sheet, I looked things over again and caught two minor errors.
1. His CMD should be 12 (accounting for STR and DEX bonuses)
2. His ranged attack modifier with his dagger should be +1
Once these small corrections have been made, Torden will be ready to roll. Nice job!
As far as the "Mists" opening, I can foresee Torden, given some piece of knowledge, grouped with the rest of the group--during which time he discovers what it is Pathfinders do. (Not to put to much into the GM's mouth.)
No, that's fine. PFS Scenarios (as you know, I'm sure) tend to skip over the meet and greet, and jump right in with the action. This is natural, given the time limitations inherent in tournament style games.
As written, 'Mists' makes similar assumptions. It begins with the party assembled and arriving at the trouble spot du jour, with the assignment from the local PF Venture Captain provided as a flashback.
My question to everyone: Would you prefer to role-play the party coming together in a meeting with the Venture Captain instead? In a pbp, we clearly have more time for such niceties, and it could be a fun way to introduce the characters. Your preferences?
Will the background be open for us to look at, or do you want to reveal it in-game?
Eric, I have been operating under the assumption that backgrounds are considered fair game for everyone to read, unless otherwise specified.
It occurs to me that you may not be under the same assumption, and maybe I should have used spoiler tags in discussing Origen's b/g with you in this thread. I apologize if I gave anything away you wanted kept secret.
Another question: is everyone gonna be a member of the Pathfinder Society and choose a region of allegiance?I can go either way on factor, but Origen is definitely a Pathfinder. If we are faction members, he'd probably be Taldane, but possibly could be Osirion or Andoren.
I imagine that the choice of yea or nay for factions is largely a matter of individual character background. I'm neutral on the issue. If it interests you, feel free to choose one. If not, that's perfectly fine too. I certainly wouldn't try to shoehorn a faction onto a character if it doesn't naturally fit.
|
|
It occurs to me that you may not be under the same assumption, and maybe I should have used spoiler tags in discussing Origen's b/g with you in this thread. I apologize if I gave anything away you wanted kept secret.
Everyone is welcome to read his spoilers, but the PCs that you run would not be aware of the spoiler under his Appearance unless they know him fairly well. Going on a prior mission together would definitely qualify.
EDIT: No need to apologize, Doc. If I had wanted it to be a secret, I would have spoilered it on the thread too. I'm interested in the other player's opinions.
|
|
I think Torden fits his background more than he is optimized . . . .Once again . . . please let me know if there's something I missed :)
I didn't see any problems, though I'd suggest not putting any more points in Diplomacy and Sense Motive after L1. Having one rank makes sense given your background.
In general regarding being a bard, you might want to consider raising Bluff to get more use from your secret message trait with Jonagher, or perhaps put single points into more Knowledge skills. With your Bardic Knowledge bonus, having a little bit of knowledge in many things would be an effective way of having a backup to other PC's Knowledge skills.
My impression is that you are taking Torden toward an enchantment caster/support mage/party face. Is that accurate? I generally like that bard strategy because they get some good enchantment spells earlier than mages (Hideous Laughter, Suggestion). Even with its Pathfinder decrease in power, Hideous Laughter is a spell that I like a lot. And if you charm someone, you can easily make them Helpful with Diplomacy.
With my human fighter, I've been going over options all morning. Here are his/her w/o the Fighter Variant option:
STR 18 (includes +2 increase bonus for Human)
INT 10
WIS 10
DEX 14
CON 14
CHR 10
As you can see, this is a pretty straight-forward fighter.
Now, in light of the Fighter Variant option:
STR 16 (includes +2 bonus for Human)
INT 13
WIS 10
DEX 14
CON 14
CHR 12
Obviously, the set of stats I choose will influence how I play him/her. What do you think?
Edit: Already leaning heavily on using the variant option. Thinking he grew up in a farming family - hard-working, hands-on, animals, leather-working, good family values. Desire to use a sword and adventure instilled by visits to town and festivals and tales of bravery and deeds from other adventurers. Skills will reflect that background I think.
Here is my character - Bran Morigon - so far I have just a few crunchy bits; working on skills, feats, traits, and equipment and background. Will work on it as I can today and tomorrow - hopefully have him fully done by Sunday night.
Here is my character - Bran Morigon - so far I have just a few crunchy bits; working on skills, feats, traits, and equipment and background. Will work on it as I can today and tomorrow - hopefully have him fully done by Sunday night.
Looks like you're off to a good start. For what it's worth, I like the decision to go with the variant, more skill-oriented, fighter. I believe it will serve the party well over the long haul.
Frik's background is done. I didn't reference any other characters so it will be easy to work me in to their background. It isn't a secret. In fact he tells everyone his "hook" nearly as soon as he meets them.
I can change up things as needed to fit with other backgrounds, but Frik doesn't really have a Pathfinder connection, but he's willing to be involved with them to help further his goals.
Take a look, and it's kind of a rough draft...changes can and probably will be made to fit with the story.
Nice background, Bandersnatch - some good stuff in there for David to work with.
I'm trying to decide between a longsword and a bastard sword; leaning toward bastard sword figuring he would have been trained to wield in one-handed. Also considering Power Attack as his second Feat and then working toward Cleave, and some Shield-related areas.
Also, as a woodworker and lumberjack, would he be more prone to using a crossbow as a ranged weapon or stick with throwing axes? Or both?
Just interested in what you guys have to say.
Having noted the changes made to Torden's sheet, I looked things over again and caught two minor errors.
1. His CMD should be 12 (accounting for STR and DEX bonuses)
2. His ranged attack modifier with his dagger should be +1
Once these small corrections have been made, Torden will be ready to roll. Nice job!
I KNEW I'd miss something.
Thanks.As for the opening, I guess my preference would be to have a "meet-up" rather than just starting where the scenario does--my 2c.p.
Frik's background is done. I didn't reference any other characters so it will be easy to work me in to their background. It isn't a secret. In fact he tells everyone his "hook" nearly as soon as he meets them.
Interesting background. It certainly explains the use of the greatsword very well! I wonder if it might feel more organic to begin the game if there is some connection to the Pathfinder Society...even through a friend/acquaintance who is a member (i.e., one of the other PCs). This would explain why he might be a part of the party more naturally.
Just as a reminder, I would also like to have a list of spells Frik has memorized at the beginning of the game.
Good job!
I'm trying to decide between a longsword and a bastard sword; leaning toward bastard sword figuring he would have been trained to wield in one-handed. Also considering Power Attack as his second Feat and then working toward Cleave, and some Shield-related areas.
Also, as a woodworker and lumberjack, would he be more prone to using a crossbow as a ranged weapon or stick with throwing axes? Or both?
Just interested in what you guys have to say.
Personally, if you're wanting to go with a sword and board type fighter, I'd probably just stick with the longsword. I don't know if the extra damage, on average, is worth burning the feat for proficiency. That's just my personal preference, however.
For ranged weapons, the picture of a woodsman burying the head of a throwing axe in an enemy from 15 feet away is too classic to resist! Supplement with a crossbow, too, by all means, but I like the throwing axe.
|
|
Nice background, Bandersnatch - some good stuff in there for David to work with.
I'm trying to decide between a longsword and a bastard sword; leaning toward bastard sword figuring he would have been trained to wield in one-handed. Also considering Power Attack as his second Feat and then working toward Cleave, and some Shield-related areas.
Also, as a woodworker and lumberjack, would he be more prone to using a crossbow as a ranged weapon or stick with throwing axes? Or both?
I like him so far, and I also prefer the variant fighter. As an ex-lumberjack, you have to fit axes in somehow, though I understand the appeal of the crossbow's range.
I'd say bastard sword is a fine choice, and a sword-and-board Cleave fighter would definitely make a good tank. You might consider working toward the shield 2W fighter, as I think that some of the new feats make that a more attractive option.
You may also want to consider some Sunder feats too for use against non-fighters, but I'm not sure how they've been changed in Pathfinder.
|
|
Frik's background is done. . . . Take a look, and it's kind of a rough draft...changes can and probably will be made to fit with the story.
I also like it. As a connection to the party/reason for adventuring, perhaps you might hear a rumor that Leopold was shanghaied during the riots onto a ship bound for Sargava, which may or may not have been attacked by pirates in route. What do you think?
Frik's background is done. . . . Take a look, and it's kind of a rough draft...changes can and probably will be made to fit with the story.I also like it. As a connection to the party/reason for adventuring, perhaps you might hear a rumor that Leopold was shanghaied during the riots onto a ship bound for Sargava, which may or may not have been attacked by pirates in route. What do you think?
Perfect! I was thinking something along those lines, but that's a great idea.
I'll add it in, as well as spells prepared, and then I'm ready.
Can't wait to get started!
Bran is up and ready for approval. Please let me know what I need to tweak, change, or redo. Looking forward to the start!
Bran is up and ready for approval. Please let me know what I need to tweak, change, or redo. Looking forward to the start!
hedgeknight,
I looked over Bran's sheet, and I did see a few issues to address.
1. I didn't see a favored class listed on the sheet, but I assume that it's fighter, and I assume that you put the bonus point in skills. You have (6) at the top of your skill point breakdown, but I counted seven ranked skills (which would be correct if you used the favored class skill point bonus).
2. Speaking of skills, all of Bran's ranked skills should be 3 points higher. This is a PF rule that is different from D&D 3.5, so sometimes does get overlooked.
3. I don't explicitly see a longsword listed under his gear, although from his background and combat array, I know he is carrying one. Minor issue.
4. His AC appears to be low by 2 (chain shirt gives +4 AC)
5. His throwing axe attack line should have +3 to hit, 1d6+3 damage.
Thanks David - all corrections made.
Thanks David - all corrections made.
Excellent, thanks for your quick work!
Actually, I noticed a few other things as I looked over him again.
1. Flat Footed AC (15) is missing.
2. He can know one other language beyond common.
3. His ACP is -3, including his shield. Could you account for this in the relevant skill totals, please? Something as simple as Climb +0/+3 would be fine (Ride and Swim are also impacted)
4. You've got some knowledge skills listed that he won't be able to use untrained. He'd need at least one rank in those to make a check.
5. I know we're not making a big deal about weight carried, but it looks like his listed load of 99 pounds might be too high (Eyeballing it, it looks high by about 20 lbs. to me). That's just me stickling.
Hmm, sorry I missed these things on the first go 'round. :)
Me too. I'm glad that you liked the idea. Maybe we'll be seeing the Dread Pirate Leopold someday.
Perhaps so! :D
I'll have to see if the adventure gives me a place where I can sensibly integrate some of Frik's background elements.
Background tweaked, spells put up, and ready to go tomorrow! Frik is ready to rumble.
Background tweaked, spells put up, and ready to go tomorrow! Frik is ready to rumble.
Excellent! I'm working on preparing the intro now...I'm struggling a bit with trying to explain why random guys off the street like Frik and Bran would get called on for an assignment for the Pathfnder Society, though. Any ideas would be appreciated.
Maybe when Neil's b/g for Jonagher goes up, the whole thing will come together! (No pressure, Neil). :)
Incidentally, hedgeknight, I really like Bran's background. Got so focused on the mechanics of his sheet, I forgot to mention this.
Great job!
Background tweaked, spells put up, and ready to go tomorrow! Frik is ready to rumble.Excellent! I'm working on preparing the intro now...I'm struggling a bit with trying to explain why random guys off the street like Frik and Bran would get called on for an assignment for the Pathfnder Society, though. Any ideas would be appreciated.
Maybe when Neil's b/g for Jonagher goes up, the whole thing will come together! (No pressure, Neil). :)
Well, Frik isn't quiet when he's looking for information. It's no secret he's looking to get out of Absalom and continue his search. Maybe some Pathfinder overheard him in his cups asking around and knew a guy who knows a guy who heard something.
Just an idea! Frik's getting desperate...any clue, even a minor one, is enough to get his fire lit.
Incidentally, hedgeknight, I really like Bran's background. Got so focused on the mechanics of his sheet, I forgot to mention this.
Great job!
Thanks David!
Will update his sheet in a moment - actually, since he has a Shield Proficiency (all fighters get it automatically), the armor check penalty for it only applies to Strength and Dexterity based skills. Does it also apply to ACP? Maybe I just misread it.Also, Bran's father used to be a Pathfinder - perhaps he has a writ with him saying so or perhaps the Society has tracked him down to Absalom? Just some thoughts.
Edit: Which Knowledge skills do I need to omit? Dungeoneering? Nobility?
Will update his sheet in a moment - actually, since he has a Shield Proficiency (all fighters get it automatically), the armor check penalty for it only applies to Strength and Dexterity based skills. Does it also apply to ACP? Maybe I just misread it.
The combined -3 applies to all STR and DEX based skills, that's correct. ACP is just short-hand for saying Armor Check Penalty, it's the same thing. The upshot is just that, while wearing his armor and carrying his shield, Bran's totals would be Climb +0, Ride +3, and Swim +0.
Also, Bran's father used to be a Pathfinder - perhaps he has a writ with him saying so or perhaps the Society has tracked him down to Absalom? Just some thoughts.
Those are good ideas. I think I've got our intro worked out in a fashion which will let each player have some flexibility in his PC's motive for jumping into the action. Once play begins, you'll be able to go with whatever seems best for Bran.
Edit: Which Knowledge skills do I need to omit? Dungeoneering? Nobility?
You have to have at least one rank put into Knowledge skills to use them, so the only one available to Bran right now would be Geography.
Sounds good, David. Looking forward to it. I can only post in the early morning and evening - can't access Paizo from work, dammit!
Jonagher's background is now complete. Let me know if you want to tweak anything. He's there to serve as "glue" for bringing everyone together however you'd prefer.
Also, FYI...I swapped out Jonagher's rank in Climb for a rank in Sleight of Hand to better suit his background. Everything else remains unchanged.