I'm going to build a 3rd level phalanx soldier for PFS (I have some GM credit stacked up). I'm looking for suggestions on how to make him a good protector. I know PF doesn't have mmo tanking mechanics, so I'm not going to just stack AC. I want a character focused on keeping the rest of the party as protected as possible. I usually go for max damage builds but this time I want to be more of a team player and be more focused on preventing others from getting hurt.
I'm thinking I'm probably best off focusing on using his reach for AoOs and moving towards combat patrol (with shield bash as an option if the enemy gets too close).
Any suggestions or feedback?
If there's another archetype that would work better for this, let me know. I just love reach weapons.
There are a few bodyguard feats you could probably take. I've been wanting to build a phalanx aasimar for a while myself, but haven't sat down to figure it out, lol.
Off the top of my head I'd say -
Body Guard
Combat Reflexes
Combat Patrol (At level 5)
Maybe some CMB stuff like improved trip?