The Journeyman Savant - FEEDBACK PLEASE! [Archive] - Wizards Community

The Journeyman Savant - FEEDBACK PLEASE! [Archive] - Wizards Community

Post/Author/DateTime Post
bkdubs123
10-23-07, 11:05 PM So, we have the Factotum, a base class that is capable of trying everything, and who can every now and again pull off incredible feats of widely varied ability. The Journeyman Savant is a PrC along the same vein that can be used by classes to gain unparalleled versatility out of their feats. Take a look and tell me what you think. This guy REALLY needs feedback!

http://i110.photobucket.com/albums/n100/bkdubs123/Master_and_Servant_by_dominuself.jpg

"This tundra is no danger to me. I have voyaged with Dread Pirates, I have studied under Archmages, I have fought alongside Purple Dragon Knights and against Umber Hulks of the Underdark. I have been gifted with a liberal experience, and I draw upon its lessons to prepare myself for the challenges my future holds with each new day," - Gremmach, Journeyman Savant to his wide eyed apprentice.

The Journeyman Savant allows players to gain more out of their feats than they might have ever thought possible. While the Factotum applies himself in order to achieve abilities similar to the talents of other classes, the Journeyman Savant seeks to master techniques that he may not have fully studied. Through thorough introspection and contemplative meditation a Journeyman Savant uncovers secrets behind the abilities others have gained through years of study. Rather than forcing concepts into long-term and muscular memory a Journeyman Savant understands how to apply them, if only for a short time. Power Attack does not take a Journeyman Savant weeks to achieve, merely a short meditation to prepare his body and mind properly for the technique. Similarly, a spellcasting Journeyman Savant might have seen and read of metamagic abilities he does not possess. Using his intellect he explores the way these metamagics work fundamentally, understanding their secrets and then with a moments in deep reflection learns to apply these secrets to his own spells.

A Journeyman Savant is eager to learn more about the world he lives in, and about the skills of others he comes in contact with. Seeking always to prove himself capable of dealing with the most obscure or intense situations Savants are often found adventuring into places of grave danger or seeking to unravel the longest established secrets.

The Journeyman Savant

Entry Requirements:
Skills: Concentration 4 ranks, Knowledge (any two) 2 ranks, Knowledge (any other one) 4 ranks, at least 1 rank in 10 different skills.
Feats: Open Minded and at least one of the following; Jack of all Trades, Able Learner, or Improved Initiative
Special: Character Level 5th, Must know at least one skill trick.

Hit Dice: d8

Lv BAB Fort Ref Will Special Continued Study
1. +0 +0 +0 +0 Continued Study, Dabbler, Acumen +1 level of existing class
2. +0 +0 +0 +0 -- +1 level of existing class/class features
3. +0 +0 +0 +0 Adaptive Learner 1/day (1 pt), Acumen +1 +1 level of existing class
4. +0 +0 +0 +0 Improved Acumen +1 level of existing class/class features
5. +0 +0 +0 +0 Acumen +1 +1 level of existing class
6. +0 +0 +0 +0 Adaptive Learner 2/day (2pts) +1 level of existing class/class features
7. +0 +0 +0 +0 Acumen +1 +1 level of existing class
8. +0 +0 +0 +0 Feat-like Abilities 3/day +1 level of existing class/class features
9. +0 +0 +0 +0 Adaptive Learner 3/day (5pts), Acumen +1 +1 level of existing class
10. +0 +0 +0 +0 Feat-like Abilities 6/day +1 level of existing class/class features

Class Skills: Any 10 (you choose the ten), at least 5 of which must be chosen from a previous class' skill list.
Skill Points per Level: See the Continued Study class feature below.

Class Features
All of the following are class features of the Journeyman Savant:

Weapon and Armour Proficiency: A Journeyman Savant is proficient with all simple and martial weapons, and with all armors and shields.

Continued Study: A Journeyman Savant experiments with new styles and new trains of thought, while continuing to advance the skills and abilities of his other class. At every level gained as a Journeyman Savant, a character gains Base Attack Bonus, Save Bonuses, and all other level dependant benefits as detailed by their previous class (for example, skill points, caster level, invocations known, initiator level, inspiration points, etc.). A Journeyman Savant does not get the Class Features of his previous class at every level, but does at every even level of this class (Spells known/Spells per day, manuevers and stances known, and other similar features are considered class features that improve only at these levels). If a Savant has more than one other class he must choose only one of them to receive the benefit of Continued Study at each level gained as a Journeyman Savant. A Savant gains skill points each level at the same rate of his previous class (or the previous class of his choice if multiclassed).

For example, a 5th level Fighter / 3rd level Journeyman Savant has the base attack bonus, saves, and skill points of an 8th level Fighter and the bonus feats of a 6th level Fighter. A 5th level Rogue / 7th level Journeyman Savant has the base attack bonus, saves, and skill points of a 12th level Rogue and the class features of an 8th level Rogue. A 7th level Sorcerer / 4th level Journeyman Savant has the base attack bonus, saves, skill points and caster level of an 11th level Sorcerer and can cast up to 4th level arcane spells.

Dabbler: A Journeyman Savant constantly seeks to expand his talents and mental faculties in new directions. At each level you take in the Journeyman Savant class you must buy at least 1 rank in a cross class skill.

Acumen: At the start of each day a Savant accumulates a pool of Acumen Points, equal to 1+ ½ his intelligence modifier (if positive) + any bonuses accrued from levels in this class. This pool grows in size depending on the Savant’s class level as shown on the table below. The number of points in this pool can never exceed your class level. By spending one hour in meditation a Savant can spend these points to “purchase” feats. New feats are bought on a point for point basis, but in order to “purchase” a feat a Savant must first meet all prerequisites for that feat.

For example, having woken from a comfortable night’s sleep, Hedveld sits down to meditate on the day to come. He has an Intelligence score of 14 (+2 modifier) and is a 3rd level Journeyman Savant (Acumen +1) giving him a total of 3 Acumen Points to spend (If he had 18 Intelligence he would still have only 3 points). Feats he currently knows (from character levels) are Jack of all Trades, Improved Initiative, Open Minded, and Weapon Focus (longsword). He spends one point to “buy” Two-Weapon Fighting, another to “buy” Skill Focus (Tumble), and a third to “buy” Improved Critical (longsword). He has spent all of his Acumen Points for the day.

Furthermore, at any time during the day by meditating for one hour, a Journeyman Savant may reallocate his Acumen Points, losing any feats he has “purchased” with Acumen Points at the start of the day, refilling his pool, and buying new feats he meets the prerequisites for.

Finally, if a Savant has a pool of Inspiration Points or Essentia Points, whenever he spends Acumen Points he can decide to spend them to add points to his Inspiration or Essentia pools on a one for one exchange basis. All Acumen Points spent this way can be reallocated normally, with an hour of meditation.

Adaptive Learner: Starting at 3rd level, once per day, a Journeyman Savant can reallocate a number of Acumen Points by spending a full round action in deep thought so long as he has 8 or more ranks in Concentration. This action provokes attacks of opportunity. At 3rd level a Savant can only reallocate 1 point in this way, once per day. At 6th level a Savant can reallocate up to 2 points at a time, up to two times per day. At 9th level a Savant can reallocate up to 5 points at a time, as often as three times per day.

Improved Acumen: At 4th level a Journeyman Savant can spend more Acumen Points to “purchase” feats for which he may not normally meet the prerequisites. Whenever a Savant purchases feats using Acumen, so long as he has 9 or more ranks in Concentration, he can spend 1 extra point to ignore a single ability score requirement of a feat for which he would otherwise meet the requirements. Extra acumen can continue to be spent if a feat requires multiple ability scores.

For example, Hedveld wants to buy Improved Two-Weapon Fighting but his Dexterity score is 14 rather than 17. With Improved Acumen, Hedveld can spend 2 points to buy Improved Two-Weapon Fighting, ignoring the Dexterity requirement.

Feat-Like Abilities: Beginning at 8th level, whenever a Journeyman Savant spends Acumen Points to purchase feats, he can instead purchase Feat-Like Abilities provided he has at least 12 ranks in Concentration. At 8th level these Feat-Like Abilities can be activated three times per day to grant the Savant the benefit of any feat, regardless of prerequisites, for 3 rounds (if, as part of the use of that feat, further action on subsequent rounds is required as with some tactical feats, any benefits that would be granted on those rounds through the use of that feat are still granted). When a Journeyman Savant purchases a Feat-Like Ability he spends a single Acumen Point and records the name of a feat for future use. Activating a Feat-Like Ability is a free-action which immediately grants the Savant the benefits of any of the recorded Feat-like Abilities. A Savant has 6 activations of his Feat-Like Abilities at 10th level.

Sample Journeyman Savant

Gremmach Dolsturn (N)
Dwarf Crusader 1/Warblade 1/Swordsage 3/Journeyman Savant 5 (CR 10)
Hit Points - 83
Abilities: Str 15, Dex 10, Con 16, Int 18, Wis 12, Cha 8
AC 23 (+8 Armor, +2 Shield, +3 Natural)
Saves - Fort 9 Ref 10 Will 7
Skills - Balance +5, Climb +8, Concentration +11, Craft +5, Decipher Script +5, Escape Artist +5, Heal +3, Hide +3, Jump +5, Knowledge (Nature) +8, Knowledge (Arcana) +8, Knowledge (History) +6, Martial Lore +3, Move Silently +3, Swim +5, Survival +3, Tumble +6
Speed: 30ft
Attacks: Quarterstaff 1d6+5, +13/+8
Feats - Adaptive Style, Vital Recovery, Sudden Recovery, Blade Meditation (Setting Sun), Devoted Bulwark*, White Raven Defense*, Desert Wind Dodge**, Scorching Sirocco*, (*Feats purchased through Acumen Points; **Desert Wind Dodge was bought with 2 Acumen Points overriding its 13 Dex requirement)
Special - Furious Counterstrike, Steely Resolve 5, Battle Clarity (Reflex Saves), Weapon Aptitude, Quick to Act +1, Discipline, AC Bonus, Continued Study, Dabbler, Acumen +3 (5), Adaptive Learner (1) 1/day, Improved Acumen
Maneuvers: 1st level - Crusader's Strike^, Charging Minotaur^, Stone Bones^, Douse the Flames^, Vanguard Strike^, Steel Wind^, Steely Strike^, Leading the Attack^, Blistering Flourish, Burning Blade^, Moment of Perfect Mind^, Counter Charge^, Mighty Throw, Clinging Shadow Strike, Shadow Blade Technique; 2nd level - Mountain Hammer^; 3rd level - Fan the Flames^; 4th level - Comet Throw^ (^ Readied)
Stances: 1st level - Martial Spirit, Bolstering Voice, Island of Blades, Hunter's Sense,; 3rd level - Holocaust Cloak
Equipment: +1 Battlestaff of Surprises, +1 Adamantine Half Plate, Large Wooden Shield, 5 Flasks of Oil, 5 Alchemist's Fire, 2 Acid Flasks, 1 Manacles, 1 Bola, 3 Tindertwig, 1 Sunrod, 1 Hooded Lantern, Amulet of Natural Armor +3, Belt of Hidden Pouches, Cloak of Elemental Protection

///////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////

So, there it is, the Journeyman Savant. The question now is: Is this crazy thing balanced? Poke at it, prod at it, try as you might to break it, please, and then perhaps (if it is salvageable) help me make this class work. FEEDBACK PLEASE!!
Sinfire Titan
10-23-07, 11:12 PM And Fighter just became obsolete. Again.

Great prestige class. But an 11th level sorcerer has access to 5th level spells, not sixth.

Also
Acumen: At the start of each day a [Class name] accumulates a pool of Acumen Points, equal to 1+ ½ his intelligence modifier (if positive) + any bonuses accrued from levels in this class. This pool grows in size depending on the [Class name]’s class level as shown on the table below. By spending one hour in meditation a [Class name] can spend these points to “purchase” feats. New feats are bought on a point for point basis, but in order to “purchase” a feat a [Class name] must first meet all prerequisites for that feat.

For example, having woken from a comfortable night’s sleep, Hedveld sits down to meditate on the day to come. He has an Intelligence score of 14 (+2 modifier) and is a 3rd level [Class name] (Acumen +1) giving him a total of 4 Acumen Points to spend. Feats he currently knows (from character levels) are Jack of all Trades, Improved Initiative, Open Minded, and Weapon Focus (longsword). He spends one point to “buy” Two-Weapon Fighting, another to “buy” Two-Weapon Defense, a third to “buy” Skill Focus (Tumble), and a fourth to “buy” Improved Critical (longsword). He has spent all of his Acumen Points for the day.

It should say 3 Acumen points.

Other than that, it is a good prestige class.
bkdubs123
10-23-07, 11:20 PM Ah! Wow, that was fast!

The Fighter doesn't become obsolete with this, in fact he becomes even better at what he already does: Get a butt ton of feat trees. A Fighter 5/Feat Adapter 10 can just switch out feat trees everyday for incredible versatility.

Thanks for the spot check on the sorcerer spells. Fixed.

It should say 4 Acumen Points. You start with 1 + int bonus, and as a 3rd level Feat Adapter he gets 1 more for a total of 4.

I'm glad you like the class. I hope it actually works correctly. I've edited/patched a few things already (skills in general and how they work with this class). KEEP THE FEEDBACK COMING!
bkdubs123
10-24-07, 12:50 AM Edited how Continued Study works with spellcasters. Not sure how I want to deal with this, but with my edit it at least makes the spellcasters lose a little bit of something for the incredible versatility it offers.

Thinking of keying the hit dice off of Continued Study as well. Any ideas?
Undrhil
10-24-07, 01:07 AM It should say 4 Acumen Points. You start with 1 + int bonus, and as a 3rd level Feat Adapter he gets 1 more for a total of 4.

In your original post and in the bolded part that was quoted previously, you said it was 1 + 1/2 intelligence bonus + Acumen points for the day. In your example, this would be 1 + (1/2 of 2 = 1) + 1 = 3, not 4. :)

Also, you should call this PrC Master of None, just for the heck of it.

"What are you playing again? Me? A Fighter 5/Master of None 4."
bkdubs123
10-24-07, 01:45 AM Oh! Crap! You'e right! Okay, thanks, yep I'll have to amend that section! Thanks!

Wow... so no comments on how horrendously bzorkzen this is yet? I'm surprised. Surely there is some way to destroy the balance of the mulitverse with this thing! Surely!

Anyway, hoping for an in depth analysis soon, and I'm glad that the class seems to be well liked at least initially.
bkdubs123
10-24-07, 03:50 AM Okay, added some skill requirements to the abilities to require some commitment as you continue to gain levels in the class (since a Fighter effectively loses absolutely nothing in taking this class).

Also changed the name to something much more evocative. If anyone has any other suggestions that will keep this class as an attractive oppurtunity to Fighters, but not something that EVERY single fighter in the world will want to take I'd be more than happy to hear it.
imakuni67
10-24-07, 09:21 AM This seems pretty interesting, but I don't get why improved iniative is a requirement.
Ultima0071
10-24-07, 01:33 PM This prestige class actually works, looks fun to use, and improves the fighter. A combination I would of never thought possible. It's very good for people who want some extra feats. Guess you deserve a cookie, huh?

Congrats! You won my THIRD ever cookie! Here: :cookie:
bkdubs123
10-24-07, 02:14 PM @Imakuni: I think Improved Initiative is a vestige from a time when I was a bad game designer. It was probably some kind of flavor thing in my mind. This class is basically a rebuilt dinosaur. I think I'll change the required feats a little.

@Ultima0071: Glad you like the class. I'm still worried about it though, and very leery of the abuse that might be possible through linking Acumen Points to intelligence score... Factotums and Wizards could get a lot of extra feats incredibly easily... I might amend the Acumen description to never allow a pool of Acumen Points that is greater than your number of Journeyman Savant class levels, but that almost seems a bit harsh. I'd at least want to add an ability at 2nd level then.
Operation_Shoestring
10-24-07, 03:19 PM Huh, i like this. The only quibble is that this makes monks even more useless than they were, as fighter/Journeymen now outshine them for flexibility as well as raw damage output. Not that that's saying much.

I actually was working on a PrC that had a point pool you could spend to emulate certain feats (only a small selection though) and cast minor spell like abilities. Your Class has given me much food for thought. Thanks!
bkdubs123
10-25-07, 12:19 PM Glad you like it, and glad I could inspire you! :D

Not sure if it makes the Monk even more useless than before (I mean the Monk was always pretty useless), but a Monk can take this class just about as easily as anyone else. Throw in a little Kung Fu Genius and you're golden!

This guy needs a serious evaluation though. I wish someone could really give this PrC a work over and tell me what is wrong, what can't work, and what is pretty good about it. Thanks in advance!
bkdubs123
10-29-07, 06:10 AM Looking for an in depth review, FEEDBACK PLEASE!
bkdubs123
11-03-07, 04:15 PM Entering in the Cookie Contest. C'mon, 119 views and out of 12 comments, half are my own bumps!?

Post/Author/DateTime	Post
bkdubs123 10-23-07, 11:05 PM	So, we have the Factotum, a base class that is capable of trying everything, and who can every now and again pull off incredible feats of widely varied ability. The Journeyman Savant is a PrC along the same vein that can be used by classes to gain unparalleled versatility out of their feats. Take a look and tell me what you think. This guy REALLY needs feedback! http://i110.photobucket.com/albums/n100/bkdubs123/Master_and_Servant_by_dominuself.jpg "This tundra is no danger to me. I have voyaged with Dread Pirates, I have studied under Archmages, I have fought alongside Purple Dragon Knights and against Umber Hulks of the Underdark. I have been gifted with a liberal experience, and I draw upon its lessons to prepare myself for the challenges my future holds with each new day," - Gremmach, Journeyman Savant to his wide eyed apprentice. The Journeyman Savant allows players to gain more out of their feats than they might have ever thought possible. While the Factotum applies himself in order to achieve abilities similar to the talents of other classes, the Journeyman Savant seeks to master techniques that he may not have fully studied. Through thorough introspection and contemplative meditation a Journeyman Savant uncovers secrets behind the abilities others have gained through years of study. Rather than forcing concepts into long-term and muscular memory a Journeyman Savant understands how to apply them, if only for a short time. Power Attack does not take a Journeyman Savant weeks to achieve, merely a short meditation to prepare his body and mind properly for the technique. Similarly, a spellcasting Journeyman Savant might have seen and read of metamagic abilities he does not possess. Using his intellect he explores the way these metamagics work fundamentally, understanding their secrets and then with a moments in deep reflection learns to apply these secrets to his own spells. A Journeyman Savant is eager to learn more about the world he lives in, and about the skills of others he comes in contact with. Seeking always to prove himself capable of dealing with the most obscure or intense situations Savants are often found adventuring into places of grave danger or seeking to unravel the longest established secrets. The Journeyman Savant Entry Requirements: Skills: Concentration 4 ranks, Knowledge (any two) 2 ranks, Knowledge (any other one) 4 ranks, at least 1 rank in 10 different skills. Feats: Open Minded and at least one of the following; Jack of all Trades, Able Learner, or Improved Initiative Special: Character Level 5th, Must know at least one skill trick. Hit Dice: d8 Lv BAB Fort Ref Will Special Continued Study 1. +0 +0 +0 +0 Continued Study, Dabbler, Acumen +1 level of existing class 2. +0 +0 +0 +0 -- +1 level of existing class/class features 3. +0 +0 +0 +0 Adaptive Learner 1/day (1 pt), Acumen +1 +1 level of existing class 4. +0 +0 +0 +0 Improved Acumen +1 level of existing class/class features 5. +0 +0 +0 +0 Acumen +1 +1 level of existing class 6. +0 +0 +0 +0 Adaptive Learner 2/day (2pts) +1 level of existing class/class features 7. +0 +0 +0 +0 Acumen +1 +1 level of existing class 8. +0 +0 +0 +0 Feat-like Abilities 3/day +1 level of existing class/class features 9. +0 +0 +0 +0 Adaptive Learner 3/day (5pts), Acumen +1 +1 level of existing class 10. +0 +0 +0 +0 Feat-like Abilities 6/day +1 level of existing class/class features Class Skills: Any 10 (you choose the ten), at least 5 of which must be chosen from a previous class' skill list. Skill Points per Level: See the Continued Study class feature below. Class Features All of the following are class features of the Journeyman Savant: Weapon and Armour Proficiency: A Journeyman Savant is proficient with all simple and martial weapons, and with all armors and shields. Continued Study: A Journeyman Savant experiments with new styles and new trains of thought, while continuing to advance the skills and abilities of his other class. At every level gained as a Journeyman Savant, a character gains Base Attack Bonus, Save Bonuses, and all other level dependant benefits as detailed by their previous class (for example, skill points, caster level, invocations known, initiator level, inspiration points, etc.). A Journeyman Savant does not get the Class Features of his previous class at every level, but does at every even level of this class (Spells known/Spells per day, manuevers and stances known, and other similar features are considered class features that improve only at these levels). If a Savant has more than one other class he must choose only one of them to receive the benefit of Continued Study at each level gained as a Journeyman Savant. A Savant gains skill points each level at the same rate of his previous class (or the previous class of his choice if multiclassed). For example, a 5th level Fighter / 3rd level Journeyman Savant has the base attack bonus, saves, and skill points of an 8th level Fighter and the bonus feats of a 6th level Fighter. A 5th level Rogue / 7th level Journeyman Savant has the base attack bonus, saves, and skill points of a 12th level Rogue and the class features of an 8th level Rogue. A 7th level Sorcerer / 4th level Journeyman Savant has the base attack bonus, saves, skill points and caster level of an 11th level Sorcerer and can cast up to 4th level arcane spells. Dabbler: A Journeyman Savant constantly seeks to expand his talents and mental faculties in new directions. At each level you take in the Journeyman Savant class you must buy at least 1 rank in a cross class skill. Acumen: At the start of each day a Savant accumulates a pool of Acumen Points, equal to 1+ ½ his intelligence modifier (if positive) + any bonuses accrued from levels in this class. This pool grows in size depending on the Savant’s class level as shown on the table below. The number of points in this pool can never exceed your class level. By spending one hour in meditation a Savant can spend these points to “purchase” feats. New feats are bought on a point for point basis, but in order to “purchase” a feat a Savant must first meet all prerequisites for that feat. For example, having woken from a comfortable night’s sleep, Hedveld sits down to meditate on the day to come. He has an Intelligence score of 14 (+2 modifier) and is a 3rd level Journeyman Savant (Acumen +1) giving him a total of 3 Acumen Points to spend (If he had 18 Intelligence he would still have only 3 points). Feats he currently knows (from character levels) are Jack of all Trades, Improved Initiative, Open Minded, and Weapon Focus (longsword). He spends one point to “buy” Two-Weapon Fighting, another to “buy” Skill Focus (Tumble), and a third to “buy” Improved Critical (longsword). He has spent all of his Acumen Points for the day. Furthermore, at any time during the day by meditating for one hour, a Journeyman Savant may reallocate his Acumen Points, losing any feats he has “purchased” with Acumen Points at the start of the day, refilling his pool, and buying new feats he meets the prerequisites for. Finally, if a Savant has a pool of Inspiration Points or Essentia Points, whenever he spends Acumen Points he can decide to spend them to add points to his Inspiration or Essentia pools on a one for one exchange basis. All Acumen Points spent this way can be reallocated normally, with an hour of meditation. Adaptive Learner: Starting at 3rd level, once per day, a Journeyman Savant can reallocate a number of Acumen Points by spending a full round action in deep thought so long as he has 8 or more ranks in Concentration. This action provokes attacks of opportunity. At 3rd level a Savant can only reallocate 1 point in this way, once per day. At 6th level a Savant can reallocate up to 2 points at a time, up to two times per day. At 9th level a Savant can reallocate up to 5 points at a time, as often as three times per day. Improved Acumen: At 4th level a Journeyman Savant can spend more Acumen Points to “purchase” feats for which he may not normally meet the prerequisites. Whenever a Savant purchases feats using Acumen, so long as he has 9 or more ranks in Concentration, he can spend 1 extra point to ignore a single ability score requirement of a feat for which he would otherwise meet the requirements. Extra acumen can continue to be spent if a feat requires multiple ability scores. For example, Hedveld wants to buy Improved Two-Weapon Fighting but his Dexterity score is 14 rather than 17. With Improved Acumen, Hedveld can spend 2 points to buy Improved Two-Weapon Fighting, ignoring the Dexterity requirement. Feat-Like Abilities: Beginning at 8th level, whenever a Journeyman Savant spends Acumen Points to purchase feats, he can instead purchase Feat-Like Abilities provided he has at least 12 ranks in Concentration. At 8th level these Feat-Like Abilities can be activated three times per day to grant the Savant the benefit of any feat, regardless of prerequisites, for 3 rounds (if, as part of the use of that feat, further action on subsequent rounds is required as with some tactical feats, any benefits that would be granted on those rounds through the use of that feat are still granted). When a Journeyman Savant purchases a Feat-Like Ability he spends a single Acumen Point and records the name of a feat for future use. Activating a Feat-Like Ability is a free-action which immediately grants the Savant the benefits of any of the recorded Feat-like Abilities. A Savant has 6 activations of his Feat-Like Abilities at 10th level. Sample Journeyman Savant Gremmach Dolsturn (N) Dwarf Crusader 1/Warblade 1/Swordsage 3/Journeyman Savant 5 (CR 10) Hit Points - 83 Abilities: Str 15, Dex 10, Con 16, Int 18, Wis 12, Cha 8 AC 23 (+8 Armor, +2 Shield, +3 Natural) Saves - Fort 9 Ref 10 Will 7 Skills - Balance +5, Climb +8, Concentration +11, Craft +5, Decipher Script +5, Escape Artist +5, Heal +3, Hide +3, Jump +5, Knowledge (Nature) +8, Knowledge (Arcana) +8, Knowledge (History) +6, Martial Lore +3, Move Silently +3, Swim +5, Survival +3, Tumble +6 Speed: 30ft Attacks: Quarterstaff 1d6+5, +13/+8 Feats - Adaptive Style, Vital Recovery, Sudden Recovery, Blade Meditation (Setting Sun), Devoted Bulwark, White Raven Defense, Desert Wind Dodge*, Scorching Sirocco, (Feats purchased through Acumen Points; *Desert Wind Dodge was bought with 2 Acumen Points overriding its 13 Dex requirement) Special - Furious Counterstrike, Steely Resolve 5, Battle Clarity (Reflex Saves), Weapon Aptitude, Quick to Act +1, Discipline, AC Bonus, Continued Study, Dabbler, Acumen +3 (5), Adaptive Learner (1) 1/day, Improved Acumen Maneuvers: 1st level - Crusader's Strike^, Charging Minotaur^, Stone Bones^, Douse the Flames^, Vanguard Strike^, Steel Wind^, Steely Strike^, Leading the Attack^, Blistering Flourish, Burning Blade^, Moment of Perfect Mind^, Counter Charge^, Mighty Throw, Clinging Shadow Strike, Shadow Blade Technique; 2nd level - Mountain Hammer^; 3rd level - Fan the Flames^; 4th level - Comet Throw^ (^ Readied) Stances: 1st level - Martial Spirit, Bolstering Voice, Island of Blades, Hunter's Sense,; 3rd level - Holocaust Cloak Equipment: +1 Battlestaff of Surprises, +1 Adamantine Half Plate, Large Wooden Shield, 5 Flasks of Oil, 5 Alchemist's Fire, 2 Acid Flasks, 1 Manacles, 1 Bola, 3 Tindertwig, 1 Sunrod, 1 Hooded Lantern, Amulet of Natural Armor +3, Belt of Hidden Pouches, Cloak of Elemental Protection /////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////// So, there it is, the Journeyman Savant. The question now is: Is this crazy thing balanced? Poke at it, prod at it, try as you might to break it, please, and then perhaps (if it is salvageable) help me make this class work. FEEDBACK PLEASE!!
Sinfire Titan 10-23-07, 11:12 PM	And Fighter just became obsolete. Again. Great prestige class. But an 11th level sorcerer has access to 5th level spells, not sixth. Also Acumen: At the start of each day a [Class name] accumulates a pool of Acumen Points, equal to 1+ ½ his intelligence modifier (if positive) + any bonuses accrued from levels in this class. This pool grows in size depending on the [Class name]’s class level as shown on the table below. By spending one hour in meditation a [Class name] can spend these points to “purchase” feats. New feats are bought on a point for point basis, but in order to “purchase” a feat a [Class name] must first meet all prerequisites for that feat. For example, having woken from a comfortable night’s sleep, Hedveld sits down to meditate on the day to come. He has an Intelligence score of 14 (+2 modifier) and is a 3rd level [Class name] (Acumen +1) giving him a total of 4 Acumen Points to spend. Feats he currently knows (from character levels) are Jack of all Trades, Improved Initiative, Open Minded, and Weapon Focus (longsword). He spends one point to “buy” Two-Weapon Fighting, another to “buy” Two-Weapon Defense, a third to “buy” Skill Focus (Tumble), and a fourth to “buy” Improved Critical (longsword). He has spent all of his Acumen Points for the day. It should say 3 Acumen points. Other than that, it is a good prestige class.
bkdubs123 10-23-07, 11:20 PM	Ah! Wow, that was fast! The Fighter doesn't become obsolete with this, in fact he becomes even better at what he already does: Get a butt ton of feat trees. A Fighter 5/Feat Adapter 10 can just switch out feat trees everyday for incredible versatility. Thanks for the spot check on the sorcerer spells. Fixed. It should say 4 Acumen Points. You start with 1 + int bonus, and as a 3rd level Feat Adapter he gets 1 more for a total of 4. I'm glad you like the class. I hope it actually works correctly. I've edited/patched a few things already (skills in general and how they work with this class). KEEP THE FEEDBACK COMING!
bkdubs123 10-24-07, 12:50 AM	Edited how Continued Study works with spellcasters. Not sure how I want to deal with this, but with my edit it at least makes the spellcasters lose a little bit of something for the incredible versatility it offers. Thinking of keying the hit dice off of Continued Study as well. Any ideas?
Undrhil 10-24-07, 01:07 AM	It should say 4 Acumen Points. You start with 1 + int bonus, and as a 3rd level Feat Adapter he gets 1 more for a total of 4. In your original post and in the bolded part that was quoted previously, you said it was 1 + 1/2 intelligence bonus + Acumen points for the day. In your example, this would be 1 + (1/2 of 2 = 1) + 1 = 3, not 4. :) Also, you should call this PrC Master of None, just for the heck of it. "What are you playing again? Me? A Fighter 5/Master of None 4."
bkdubs123 10-24-07, 01:45 AM	Oh! Crap! You'e right! Okay, thanks, yep I'll have to amend that section! Thanks! Wow... so no comments on how horrendously bzorkzen this is yet? I'm surprised. Surely there is some way to destroy the balance of the mulitverse with this thing! Surely! Anyway, hoping for an in depth analysis soon, and I'm glad that the class seems to be well liked at least initially.
bkdubs123 10-24-07, 03:50 AM	Okay, added some skill requirements to the abilities to require some commitment as you continue to gain levels in the class (since a Fighter effectively loses absolutely nothing in taking this class). Also changed the name to something much more evocative. If anyone has any other suggestions that will keep this class as an attractive oppurtunity to Fighters, but not something that EVERY single fighter in the world will want to take I'd be more than happy to hear it.
imakuni67 10-24-07, 09:21 AM	This seems pretty interesting, but I don't get why improved iniative is a requirement.
Ultima0071 10-24-07, 01:33 PM	This prestige class actually works, looks fun to use, and improves the fighter. A combination I would of never thought possible. It's very good for people who want some extra feats. Guess you deserve a cookie, huh? Congrats! You won my THIRD ever cookie! Here: :cookie:
bkdubs123 10-24-07, 02:14 PM	@Imakuni: I think Improved Initiative is a vestige from a time when I was a bad game designer. It was probably some kind of flavor thing in my mind. This class is basically a rebuilt dinosaur. I think I'll change the required feats a little. @Ultima0071: Glad you like the class. I'm still worried about it though, and very leery of the abuse that might be possible through linking Acumen Points to intelligence score... Factotums and Wizards could get a lot of extra feats incredibly easily... I might amend the Acumen description to never allow a pool of Acumen Points that is greater than your number of Journeyman Savant class levels, but that almost seems a bit harsh. I'd at least want to add an ability at 2nd level then.
Operation_Shoestring 10-24-07, 03:19 PM	Huh, i like this. The only quibble is that this makes monks even more useless than they were, as fighter/Journeymen now outshine them for flexibility as well as raw damage output. Not that that's saying much. I actually was working on a PrC that had a point pool you could spend to emulate certain feats (only a small selection though) and cast minor spell like abilities. Your Class has given me much food for thought. Thanks!
bkdubs123 10-25-07, 12:19 PM	Glad you like it, and glad I could inspire you! :D Not sure if it makes the Monk even more useless than before (I mean the Monk was always pretty useless), but a Monk can take this class just about as easily as anyone else. Throw in a little Kung Fu Genius and you're golden! This guy needs a serious evaluation though. I wish someone could really give this PrC a work over and tell me what is wrong, what can't work, and what is pretty good about it. Thanks in advance!
bkdubs123 10-29-07, 06:10 AM	Looking for an in depth review, FEEDBACK PLEASE!
bkdubs123 11-03-07, 04:15 PM	Entering in the Cookie Contest. C'mon, 119 views and out of 12 comments, half are my own bumps!?