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Alter Self says you assume the form of a creature. What, exactly, does that mean? Do you get the physical ability scores of that creature? If it has a bite attack, do you gain that? How about Natural Armor? Nonmagical Flight?
Is Alter Self just a "pick one: gain darkvision, low-light vision, swim, or scent?" Or does the spell do any more than just that?
Please read the section on Polymorph spells on CRB p211-212.
In short, you put on a 'creaturesuit' and gain:
* +10 disguise to appear like that creature
* Base speed = creature's base speed
* Movement modes if the has that mode AND the spell grants that mode. Speed is capped at the creature's or spell's whichever is worse.
* Ability Score bonuses/penalties based on the spell used. (You do not get the creature's ability scores.)
* Natural Armor based on the spell used. (You do not get the creature's natural armor.)
* Natural attack forms of the creature such as claws and bite. Attack bonuses are based on your abilities (BAB, Str, etc). Damage Dice are based on the creature you are changing into. Damage bonuses are based on your strength.
* Any special abilities the creature has that the spell also lists. Ie: If the creature has Darkvision 120' and the spell lists darkvision 60' then you get darkvision 60'.
* Size bonuses/penalties to attack, AC, fly, and stealth based on the size of the creature you turn into. You do not get ability score bonuses/penalties based on size except as defined by the spell you use.
- Gauss
Edit: added Natural Armor and Size statements.