Hello all!
So I'm about to start with a group in the Jade Regent adventure path. I was thinking about playing a Varisian Ninja but don't think a ninja would work to well as a Varisian. Any advice on what would be better? I really like the gypsy flavor, and I feel like I would have a lot of fun roleplaying her, so I would rather not change races.
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Sorry about all the questions. Any advice would be GREATLY appreciated! :)
Step One: Read the Player's Guide. If your GM doesn't allow it, convince them otherwise; it's expressly designed to allow players and the GM to build a cohesive party, and give players background on what the initial setup and flavor of the AP should be.
On the topic of ninjas: As I just mentioned in another thread, ninjas need not be Eastern/Tian; any sort of roguish figure with mystic powers (Daggermark assassins and Red Mantis immediately come to mind as evil examples; both could be ninjas-by-class, though neither would be referred to as such) could conceivably have the class. With a bit of wiggle room, a Varisian mystic-rogue could be another great way to reflavor the alt. class. Speak with your GM; it might be good to swap out some (or all) of the more exotic "Asian" weapon proficiencies for things more Varisian in flavor, such as the starknife, bladed scarf, and war razor.
As for playing one: Ninjas are essentially a rogue with a dash of monk. They get some mystic abilities and poison use that the rogue doesn't, but don't get evasion until much later (10th+ instead of 2nd); and while many of a rogue's abilities are at-will, many of a ninja's rely on their ki pool, a shared resource.
Vanishing Trick is an ever-popular option, as it allows you to set up a single sneak attack (even with a ranged weapon, if within 30 ft.) without needing surprise or a flanking partner, though it's an easy way to burn through ki if you're not careful.
Beyond that, look through the forum on suggestions for rogues (and ninjas), though while most rogues focus on Dexterity and Intelligence, ninjas might have a bit lower INT scores to allow them a decent CHA to get enough ki; having 8+Int skill points a level certainly helps.
Shadowdancer is a decent option if you find yourself enjoying the sneaking part of things, though it doesn't advance sneak attack; since it requires 5 skill ranks, the earliest one could take the Prestige Class would be at level 6.
Cheers, and happy gaming!
Thanks for the feedback! I talked to my DM and I'm going to be using a Varisian Scarf and later a Scimitar for Dervish Dance :)I'm thinking of going Shadowdancer 6th level as you said.
I'm taking Combat Expertise and Weapon Finesse first level as feats. Any better options?
How low of Int should I have? Lower than 12? Cause my scores so far are 10 Str, 16 Dex, 12 Con, 13 Int, 10 Wis and 14 Cha. Should I invest any more in Cha to have more ki?
It's totally up to you; I assume you're using a point-build system for ability score generation, which generally have decreasing returns for higher ability scores. Were it me, I'd keep the scores you have, especially with the Int 13 for Combat Expertise, and any sort of combat class shouldn't have a Strength penalty; I prefer characters that are well-rounded rather than crippled to get that one "18" score.
Combat Expertise and Weapon Finesse seem to be solid feat choices at this point in the game. Since you don't have a Str bonus, a light crossbow might be better than a shortbow at this point in the game, due to the wider critical; if you anticipate yourself switching weapons, Quick Draw might either be something to think about, either in the place of Combat Expertise or at 3rd level. If you find yourself low on ki, the "Extra Ki" feat does exist (although feats are still somewhat precious as a resource), and a headband of alluring charisma might be a worthwhile investment later in the game, depending.
Good luck and have fun!
There is a small Tian population in Sandpoint, it's not unthinkable a ninja or two could be hiding out there.