|
I just suffered a TPK this week in a group I play with, and I am in the process of rolling up my new character to re-try the adventure module we were playing. I'm trying to go with an archer that can also take care of spotting and disabling any traps we come across. I generally play dex-based fighters rather than rangers for my archer characters, because I just plain like them more. I'm stuck trying to decide whether I want to dip rogue or something like a trapper archetype ranger to pick up trapfinding and some extra skills. I like the idea of the rogue, because it gives access to more skills (including the ever-popular UMD), but the trapper doesn't lose a BAB bump and gets all the other 1st level ranger abilities (track, favored enemy, etc.) along with trapfinding.
Any thoughts or suggestions?
Slayer?
The one thing I'm going to mention is that as an archer you will want to be in the back lines, and as the traps-guy you'll want to be in the front. Be sure to understand this conflict of interests when building your character.
That said, the Trapper Ranger archetype or Urban Ranger, depending on the nature of the setting, would be my suggestion. The BIG thing they have going for them over Slayer or rogue is earlier access to some of the better archery feats.
|
|
I do really like the archaeologist archetype for bards, but the ability to disarm magical traps is at 6th level, which doesn't help out when I'm starting at level 3.
Also, I completely agree with there can be some disconnect between the roles of archer and trap-smith, but ultimately I'm more concerned about having someone in the party to check for traps on doors and chests and be able to unlock things. Basically, I want to be able to move into the next room without resorting to kicking the door in each time.
I think I've decided to go with Trapper for the dip, since this character's background concept is more of a frontiersman than anything roguish. It also adds the track ability, which will be a welcome addition I think.
|
If you aren't too attached to your spells, I would recommend the Slayer for several reasons:
1. You'll have the ability to detect and disarm traps without having to sacrifice any of their decent class skills.
2. Slayers make fantastic archers for many reasons. And it opens the option for sniping using certain slayer talents, which will add sneak attach damage to the mix. That should help offset the fact that you'll lose some of the Ranger spells that might add to your archery focus.
3. You'll have skills and talents available that will make it easier for you to disengage the front and move to a better position for sniping/archery should you be attacked while sniffing out traps for the party.
Hope this helps. Trapper is a good option also, but Slayer is definitely worth a look. Personally I think there are more options for customizing a Slayer around the functions you are looking to serve within your party.