Whenever I build an NPC stat block I always come across some ability that I have an internal debate as to where to list one of their class abilities. Particularly whether its or not its a Special Attack or Special Quality.
My first step for finding an answer is to first check products that have NPCs and look for ones of the same class to find out where it normally gets listed.
If that fails I've turned to a standard guideline that Special Attacks are use activated and Special Qualities are static bonuses or modifying abilities.
Is there an official guideline to use?
For 50 campaigns and 251 NPCs I have searched for an official guideline. I haven't found one anywhere. If you find one I will much appreciate it.
That being said: Your guideline seems along the right track.
Here is what I use, based on an old 3.5 guide:
Special Attacks: Damage or Harm the enemy in some way.
Special Defenses: Prevent them from being harmed in some way.
Special Qualities: Whatever doesn't fit in the other 2.
Hope this helps...
For 50 campaigns and 251 NPCs I have searched for an official guideline. I haven't found one anywhere. If you find one I will much appreciate it.
That being said: Your guideline seems along the right track.
Here is what I use, based on an old 3.5 guide:
Special Attacks: Damage or Harm the enemy in some way.
Special Defenses: Prevent them from being harmed in some way.
Special Qualities: Whatever doesn't fit in the other 2.Hope this helps...
That makes sense. And I just found an example of what I was looking for last night that supports your assumptions.