Were Psi Warroir? [Archive] - Wizards Community

Were Psi Warroir? [Archive] - Wizards Community

Post/Author/DateTime Post
FrostWolf
02-15-07, 08:12 AM I've been thinking alot about making a werewolf/(or dog, or rat) Psichic Warrior and I have a few ideas I'm not too sure of. Firstly, would they be able to use the psi powers in all three forms, or would then need to take special feats? Second, would they be advantagus to each other? I know lycanthropes get a +2 wisdom, and Psichic Warriors need a good wisdom, but other than that, is it counter productive to be both?

Thank you in advanced.
Artector
02-15-07, 08:35 AM The extra Hit Dice and the level Adjustment would cripple any character.

I'm pretty sure you'd be able to manifest in all forms, as there are no components to worry about.
Tyler Do'Urden
02-15-07, 08:49 AM When you said "Were Psi Warrior," I was thinking that you'd gain psionic powers and armor and weapons by the light of the full moon and turn back into a lowly baker by morning with no memory of your adventures.

That'd be kinda funny.

The level adjustment is your biggest enemy. It's going to delay your power aquisition by quite a while, so you need to hope that the ability boosts and whatnot that you get out of it are worth it. But there's no reason you can't manifest in all three forms unless your Wisdom somehow drops below 10+power level.
Ishindri
02-15-07, 08:50 AM Firstly, would they be able to use the psi powers in all three forms, or would then need to take special feats?
Assuming you retain control of your own mind during the transformation, I don't see why you wouldn't be able to use your psionic abilities.

Second, would they be advantagus to each other? I know lycanthropes get a +2 wisdom, and Psichic Warriors need a good wisdom, but other than that, is it counter productive to be both?
If you are asking if their abilities compliment each other, then I would say that it is not especially counterproductive to be both a lycanthrope and a psychic warrior. Most of the abilities you will obtain, such as combat feats, psionic powers, etc. can be used in any form, so the lycanthrope part can only be a boon, right? For example, hybrid form gives you improved stats and retains the ability to use some of your weapon-oriented powers.

Thank you in advanced.
You're welcome.

Edit: Oh yeah, I forgot about the level adjustment, but it looks like I was beaten to it.
FrostWolf
02-15-07, 10:00 AM About the level adjustment, I'm planning on using the guide in Dragon Mag. #313 to lower it.

Thanks for all the swift awnsers.
SlanderPanic
02-15-07, 12:42 PM The thing to keep in mind is this: At low levels, a werething's class levels aren't going to be much more than a dip, a few extra tricks that enhance their werething abilities. At high levels, you feel the level adjustment pretty hardcore, but you should be able to come up with some nasty tricks that make up for it.

And now I'm tempted to dream up some wererat lurks for my campaigns.
PhaedrusXY
02-15-07, 01:40 PM I'd suggest using a prestige class, like Warmind, that has its own manifester progression. That will make the LA and racial hit dice not hurt so much. There is of course an alignment conflict between werewolf and warmind. Some of the others would work fine, though.
Thomar_of_Uointer
02-15-07, 01:56 PM Lycanthrope psychic warrior sounds fine. You get permanent natural weapons, allowing you to focus on natural attack enhancement, and the damage reduction is awesome when combined with the psychic warrior's ability to soak damage in varied ways. The only problem I can see is the Level Adjustment and Hit Dice, which will put you behind on manifesting abilities.

If you invest in Psionic Fist (and Greater Psionic Fist, and Unavoidable Strike), which applies to natural weapons and won't hurt your stamina, you can put a lot of force behind a single attack. There's also a fun trick where you can use Unavoidable Strike in conjunction with Power Attack for an accurate, deady blow (though it's not as much fun with 3/4 BAB, you're probably best off using Greater Psionic Fist for pure damage). Use with Psionic Meditation for best results. However, you can't use it in a full attack (without hustle, that is).

You aren't going to be relying on your powers for combat abilities, so you should just pick ones that enhance and complement you, like vigor, expansion, force screen, inertial armor, metaphysical claw, hustle, psionic lion's charge, claws of the vampire (in conjunction with Psionic Fist!), duodimensional claw, truevenom, and of course form of doom. Try to get your hands on power crystals and tattoos for higher-level powers you don't have access to, or situational powers you're not sure you will need.

Ignore claws of the beast and bite of the wolf (though one or the other can be good for spicing up your natural attack routine in animal form), unless you really plan on buffing yourself before fights. When picking powers, make sure you know which ones affect claws and which ones affect any natural weapon (and even better, which ones affect all your natural weapons), wolves don't get claw attacks.
SlanderPanic
02-15-07, 02:39 PM Also, don't forget Practiced Manifester.
Lycanthromancer
02-15-07, 03:31 PM That only works for your animal HD; not your LA. Remember that. Also, I'd look at making a wereleopard or a wererat. You get the biggest punch for the fewest animal HD, and wereleopards especially get lots of natural attacks with the leopard's Pounce ability (and you won't have to spend a power on it!).

Good luck, man.
PhaedrusXY
02-15-07, 08:08 PM Where is the were-leopard from?
InkBlot
02-15-07, 09:08 PM The Monster Manual. The lycanthrope template can be applied using any carnivorous or omnivorous animal. The ones listed are just common examples.

Creating A Lycanthrope (http://www.systemreferencedocuments.org/35/sovelior_sage/monstersKtoL.html#lycanthrope), MM p.175
Leopard (http://www.systemreferencedocuments.org/35/sovelior_sage/monstersAnimal.html#leopard), MM p.274
Adolfo_Mondschein
02-16-07, 12:12 AM I've been thinking alot about making a werewolf/(or dog, or rat) Psichic Warrior and I have a few ideas I'm not too sure of. Firstly, would they be able to use the psi powers in all three forms, or would then need to take special feats? Second, would they be advantagus to each other? I know lycanthropes get a +2 wisdom, and Psichic Warriors need a good wisdom, but other than that, is it counter productive to be both?

Thank you in advanced.

I've played were-psi warriors before, they are awesome. I admit the level adjustment gets annoying, however if you can use variants to reduce them later it's not as bad at higher levels. As much as I like wolves, they get shafted as far as stats go, Riding Dogs get more for the same overall effect(think of a good breed). For another HD, you can use the War template in the back of MM2 on the base animal. It's worth it, pretty much +4 more to Constitution and Strength(and you can be ridden :) ) in addition to +10ft to speed in animal form. Were-Warwolves are pretty good. Or if you had the levels to burn, simply add a few more HD to that wolf and make it large, more str, con, and natural armor. Now for your only two psi warrior levels remaining take Monkey Grip and Exotic Weapon Proficiency Grandblade feats and take the expansion power. Now thats some awesome damage... (thats like 4d8 + 20 at LEAST right?). Just a few ideas... Personally I like taking Were-Cheetah monk and assasin... I use a spyglass or something to watch the target from afar, I spring attack them while using sprint, I usually hit them, they make the save or die, I'm go back and the target still isn't sure what the heck just happened (or dies hopefully), rinse and repeat an hour or so later (maybe).

Of course, I could make a powerhouse Wilder who would make your head explode before you even reached for that Grandblade...
FrostWolf
02-16-07, 12:46 AM The background I was thinking of would support a weredog(Riding, maybe a doberman or German shepard breed) very nicely. Special were breeds made by mages as guards and shock troops sort of idea. A group of them start manafesting psichic powers and escape. Mine will be one of the escapees offspring.
InkBlot
02-16-07, 02:05 AM I spring attack them while using sprint
Sprint can't be used with a spring attack. It only works on a charge.
PhaedrusXY
02-17-07, 02:27 PM I would take a look at the phrenic template. It can get crazy when combined with the lycanthrope template, especially if you're using them as NPC monsters. Using high hit die base animals plus these two templates can lead to vastly overpowered creatures (according to their supposed CR).
Tsuul
02-17-07, 05:41 PM How do you get by the armor restriction? Turning into a were-thing drops your gear, unlike the poly spell which melds it.
Jhaelen
02-19-07, 05:01 AM How do you get by the armor restriction? Turning into a were-thing drops your gear, unlike the poly spell which melds it.
Since the polymorph errata, gear melds with 'Alternate Shape', as well.
FrostWolf
02-19-07, 10:33 AM Since the polymorph errata, gear melds with 'Alternate Shape', as well.

Oh. I was just planning on taking the "quick -Escape" Extra from the Arms and Equipment guide. Maybe on a set of mithril, then enchant it with animate. so it can ball itself up into my backpack for travel.

Or Dendritic armor. just make sure I keep a bit someplace on me.

With a beetle Buckler too!

(I love Arms and Equipment guide!)
Tsuul
02-19-07, 06:35 PM Since the polymorph errata, gear melds with 'Alternate Shape', as well.Well what do you know. It's all been changed. I double and triple checked (cause lycanthrope alternate form (Su) worked differently then the normal alternate form (Su) in the un-errattad MM). But there it is.
Armor melds, changes sizes and all that good stuff (as long as the form can wear it).
FrostWolf
03-04-07, 11:27 AM So... It works even better than I first thought?
Redmoon
03-04-07, 12:43 PM Apparently. And the psi users are the first people I've met who don't frown on playing a lycanthrope. Hm.

I once made a wererat psychic warrior. He was a mobility build, all about being able to survive *any* encounter. With the feats like Stand Still, Speed of Thought, Up the Walls, and all the stuff like that added into a hybrid form and an animal form made it easy to survive any situation, even if surviving did mean fleeing through the sewers. It was made for a colisseum style campaign, where me & some other people just threw challenges at each other, to see if anyone could make one perfect all-around character. Mine came damned close.
Thomar_of_Uointer
03-04-07, 02:29 PM So... It works even better than I first thought?

Yup. Now that you have some good ideas, do you want to run your feat and power choices by us?
FrostWolf
03-05-07, 09:45 AM Not yet. I'm waiting for an back issue of Dragon I ordered. gives rules for running a were critter starting as a level 1. Just need it to show up first(1 week late...), then, hopefuly I can get stsrted. Then I'll start throwing feat lists around.
Thomar_of_Uointer
03-05-07, 11:23 AM Not yet. I'm waiting for an back issue of Dragon I ordered. gives rules for running a were critter starting as a level 1. Just need it to show up first(1 week late...), then, hopefuly I can get stsrted. Then I'll start throwing feat lists around.

You mean like this?
http://www.wizards.com/default.asp?x=dnd/sp/20040117a
Tsuul
03-05-07, 01:50 PM and these:
http://www.wizards.com/default.asp?x=dnd/sp/20031010a
http://www.wizards.com/default.asp?x=dnd/sp/20030912a
http://www.wizards.com/default.asp?x=dnd/sp/20031114a
http://www.wizards.com/default.asp?x=dnd/sp/20031212a
FrostWolf
03-05-07, 07:30 PM You mean like this?
http://www.wizards.com/default.asp?x=dnd/sp/20040117a

HA! So, seeing as I'd be starting as a level 1, Do you think taking my first level as Psi warrior, then start picking up were-critter levels after that would work?

It works Like this, right?
1st-Psyonic Warrior (Natural lycanthrope, but not manafesting any of the abilites yet.)
2nd-Lycanthrope
3rd-Dog
4th- any of the three again.
Thomar_of_Uointer
03-05-07, 08:18 PM HA! So, seeing as I'd be starting as a level 1, Do you think taking my first level as Psi warrior, then start picking up were-critter levels after that would work?

It works Like this, right?
1st-Psionic Warrior (Natural lycanthrope, but not manafesting any of the abilites yet.)
2nd-Lycanthrope
3rd-Dog
4th- any of the three again.

Well, not necessarily in that order. You do need a class level first, and you can't take levels in the animal class before you take levels in the template class because you don't even have the alternate form ability yet, but it's basically up to you.
FrostWolf
03-06-07, 09:07 AM But that way will work? Nice. I'll do a write up of powers and feats tomorrow then.
FrostWolf
03-15-07, 01:36 PM Wow! Forgot all about this! Sorry!
(Please forgive any spelling mistakes as I'm now 20 hours without sleep)
Stats:Human as Base, then weredog(riding):

Human (LV-1) stats: Str:15 Dex:14 Con:14 Wis:17 Int:13 Cha:11

Here we go!
FEATS:
In no order yet: Psionic Fist, greater psionic fist, Expanded Knowledge (Astral Construct), Extend Power, Boost Construct, psionic Meditation.

Planned Levels.(Subject to change based on suggestions)
LV1: Psychic warrior
LV2: Lycanthropy
LV3: dog(German shepard? Saint Bernard? Recomendations for flavor)
LV4: lycanthropy
LV5: Dog
LV6: Psychic warrior
LV7: Psychic warrior
LV8: Psychic warrior
LV9: Psychic warrior
LV10: Psychic warrior

So, by the tenth level, I'll have 8 feats, maybe more.
[Human (+1), Levels in psychic warrior(+4), every third level (+3), Have to see if the dog/lycan levels grat any feats.]

POWERS:
LV1: Expansion
LV2: Prevenom
LV3: (has to be a LV1 power, dunno what one)
LV4: Body Adjustment
LV5: Dissolving touch
LV6: (has to be a LV1 or LV2 power, dunno what one)

I know it's not a good plan, but I've never played eather a psionic OR a lycanthropic character, And might not get to play this one (But I'm going to make it just the same!:D ).

Haven't thought of a name yet, but that don't matter yet.

History:He is from a clan of nomadic lycanthropes. All specialy bred using vile magics and domestic animals to be spies, loyal troops, trustworthy guards, and obedieant servants. In an attept to make them smarter (so they could be trained easier) a few developed minor psionic powers. The mages tried to control these new additions to their armies, but to no avail, as most of them escaped. Over the years since the group escaped, they have picked up those "Normal" lycanthropes that sought a safe haven that they felt could be trusted. Also, they have offered sanctuary to anyone with psionic tallents that needed it, thus adding the lycanthropes from the MM, and psionic teachings to their slowly growing numbers.

That will be where my were is from. One of the offspring of the tribe.
Thomar_of_Uointer
03-15-07, 01:47 PM I would recommend going with natural lycanthrope. Control Shape is a pain to work with, and the DR 10/silver will make you a very powerful melee combatant. Also, wolves get free trip attempts and have just as many Hit Dice.

Check out Practiced Manifester.

Is there any reason why you are taking EK? Astral construct is always nice, but as a psychic warrior with damage reduction, you have no need for a meat shield and will only tire yourself out by summoning a monster that is weaker than you are. I would recommend taking dispel psionics, if only for its versatility and to make yourself more effective against spellcasters (a major weakness because they can ignore your DR).

I would recommend vigor as a level 1 power. If you know you're going into a fight, you'll be happy you used it. Take it before prevenom, you'll need the extra hit points at lower levels. For a level 2 power, you can't go wrong with specified energy adaptation (remember, DR doesn't work against energy damage!) though when you take energy adaptation at level 4 see if you can reform it out for hustle (use it to regain focus in the middle of a full attack).
Lycanthromancer
03-15-07, 02:03 PM Take Psicrystal Affinity instead of EK: Astral Construct. Psicrystals are so incredibly useful that it's not even funny (it's a tricorder/universal translator/late-night alarm system/scout/free power (Missive)/etc). it also makes a good fighting-companion, as you can share your powers with it, then have it attack alongside you (or it can Aid Another on your attacks, making Astral Construct fairly useless). Make sure your particular psicrystal's personality will benefit you as much as possible, as taking something that will be redundant later is not a good idea. Having Improved Initiative, a Nimble psicrystal, and a high Dexterity, for instance, is great for a psychic warrior, as you'll need to spend time buffing before most fights. Also, Extend Power is an absolute necessity (it'll save you scads of pp, certainly, especially with the longer-duration powers). Link Power (from CPsi) is great too, especially if you houserule the kinks out of it.

Then take Vigor and Share Pain, and watch your hit points skyrocket. Defensive Precognition will boost your AC and saves. You can also take Overchannel to boost your manifester level (but only when it would increase the duration of your powers enough that it conserves your power points). Earth Power (from Races of Stone, I believe) and a Torc of Power Preservation are also must-haves.

Oh, and since you have free natural attacks, make the most of that. Take Claws of Energy, Animal Affinity, and so on. Boost, boost, boost...Boost your wolf aggressiveness! [/Elan]
FrostWolf
03-15-07, 08:47 PM I would recommend going with natural lycanthrope. Control Shape is a pain to work with, and the DR 10/silver will make you a very powerful melee combatant. Also, wolves get free trip attempts and have just as many Hit Dice.

Check out Practiced Manifester.

Is there any reason why you are taking EK? Astral construct is always nice, but as a psychic warrior with damage reduction, you have no need for a meat shield and will only tire yourself out by summoning a monster that is weaker than you are. I would recommend taking dispel psionics, if only for its versatility and to make yourself more effective against spellcasters (a major weakness because they can ignore your DR).

I would recommend vigor as a level 1 power. If you know you're going into a fight, you'll be happy you used it. Take it before prevenom, you'll need the extra hit points at lower levels. For a level 2 power, you can't go wrong with specified energy adaptation (remember, DR doesn't work against energy damage!) though when you take energy adaptation at level 4 see if you can reform it out for hustle (use it to regain focus in the middle of a full attack).

So I'll drop a level of psychic warrior for the third lycanthrope level (Honestly forgot about it.) But I won't be using wolf. Dog gives a better Str boost, fits the story better, and lets be honest, who bothers to look twice at a random dog walking down a city street (other than someone that is REALY hungry)?
I think I will go with specified energy adaptation also. And I don't wish to give up the versatility of the Astral Construct, but if the psicrystal is that much better, I'll go with it. Maybe both? I'm kind of paranoid about flying baddies, and you can give the AC wings. So, eather that or Zen archery (to take advantage of my ungodly Wis). But if i counted my feats right, I may be able to take both.

Post/Author/DateTime	Post
FrostWolf 02-15-07, 08:12 AM	I've been thinking alot about making a werewolf/(or dog, or rat) Psichic Warrior and I have a few ideas I'm not too sure of. Firstly, would they be able to use the psi powers in all three forms, or would then need to take special feats? Second, would they be advantagus to each other? I know lycanthropes get a +2 wisdom, and Psichic Warriors need a good wisdom, but other than that, is it counter productive to be both? Thank you in advanced.
Artector 02-15-07, 08:35 AM	The extra Hit Dice and the level Adjustment would cripple any character. I'm pretty sure you'd be able to manifest in all forms, as there are no components to worry about.
Tyler Do'Urden 02-15-07, 08:49 AM	When you said "Were Psi Warrior," I was thinking that you'd gain psionic powers and armor and weapons by the light of the full moon and turn back into a lowly baker by morning with no memory of your adventures. That'd be kinda funny. The level adjustment is your biggest enemy. It's going to delay your power aquisition by quite a while, so you need to hope that the ability boosts and whatnot that you get out of it are worth it. But there's no reason you can't manifest in all three forms unless your Wisdom somehow drops below 10+power level.
Ishindri 02-15-07, 08:50 AM	Firstly, would they be able to use the psi powers in all three forms, or would then need to take special feats? Assuming you retain control of your own mind during the transformation, I don't see why you wouldn't be able to use your psionic abilities. Second, would they be advantagus to each other? I know lycanthropes get a +2 wisdom, and Psichic Warriors need a good wisdom, but other than that, is it counter productive to be both? If you are asking if their abilities compliment each other, then I would say that it is not especially counterproductive to be both a lycanthrope and a psychic warrior. Most of the abilities you will obtain, such as combat feats, psionic powers, etc. can be used in any form, so the lycanthrope part can only be a boon, right? For example, hybrid form gives you improved stats and retains the ability to use some of your weapon-oriented powers. Thank you in advanced. You're welcome. Edit: Oh yeah, I forgot about the level adjustment, but it looks like I was beaten to it.
FrostWolf 02-15-07, 10:00 AM	About the level adjustment, I'm planning on using the guide in Dragon Mag. #313 to lower it. Thanks for all the swift awnsers.
SlanderPanic 02-15-07, 12:42 PM	The thing to keep in mind is this: At low levels, a werething's class levels aren't going to be much more than a dip, a few extra tricks that enhance their werething abilities. At high levels, you feel the level adjustment pretty hardcore, but you should be able to come up with some nasty tricks that make up for it. And now I'm tempted to dream up some wererat lurks for my campaigns.
PhaedrusXY 02-15-07, 01:40 PM	I'd suggest using a prestige class, like Warmind, that has its own manifester progression. That will make the LA and racial hit dice not hurt so much. There is of course an alignment conflict between werewolf and warmind. Some of the others would work fine, though.
Thomar_of_Uointer 02-15-07, 01:56 PM	Lycanthrope psychic warrior sounds fine. You get permanent natural weapons, allowing you to focus on natural attack enhancement, and the damage reduction is awesome when combined with the psychic warrior's ability to soak damage in varied ways. The only problem I can see is the Level Adjustment and Hit Dice, which will put you behind on manifesting abilities. If you invest in Psionic Fist (and Greater Psionic Fist, and Unavoidable Strike), which applies to natural weapons and won't hurt your stamina, you can put a lot of force behind a single attack. There's also a fun trick where you can use Unavoidable Strike in conjunction with Power Attack for an accurate, deady blow (though it's not as much fun with 3/4 BAB, you're probably best off using Greater Psionic Fist for pure damage). Use with Psionic Meditation for best results. However, you can't use it in a full attack (without hustle, that is). You aren't going to be relying on your powers for combat abilities, so you should just pick ones that enhance and complement you, like vigor, expansion, force screen, inertial armor, metaphysical claw, hustle, psionic lion's charge, claws of the vampire (in conjunction with Psionic Fist!), duodimensional claw, truevenom, and of course form of doom. Try to get your hands on power crystals and tattoos for higher-level powers you don't have access to, or situational powers you're not sure you will need. Ignore claws of the beast and bite of the wolf (though one or the other can be good for spicing up your natural attack routine in animal form), unless you really plan on buffing yourself before fights. When picking powers, make sure you know which ones affect claws and which ones affect any natural weapon (and even better, which ones affect all your natural weapons), wolves don't get claw attacks.
SlanderPanic 02-15-07, 02:39 PM	Also, don't forget Practiced Manifester.
Lycanthromancer 02-15-07, 03:31 PM	That only works for your animal HD; not your LA. Remember that. Also, I'd look at making a wereleopard or a wererat. You get the biggest punch for the fewest animal HD, and wereleopards especially get lots of natural attacks with the leopard's Pounce ability (and you won't have to spend a power on it!). Good luck, man.
PhaedrusXY 02-15-07, 08:08 PM	Where is the were-leopard from?
InkBlot 02-15-07, 09:08 PM	The Monster Manual. The lycanthrope template can be applied using any carnivorous or omnivorous animal. The ones listed are just common examples. Creating A Lycanthrope (http://www.systemreferencedocuments.org/35/sovelior_sage/monstersKtoL.html#lycanthrope), MM p.175 Leopard (http://www.systemreferencedocuments.org/35/sovelior_sage/monstersAnimal.html#leopard), MM p.274
Adolfo_Mondschein 02-16-07, 12:12 AM	I've been thinking alot about making a werewolf/(or dog, or rat) Psichic Warrior and I have a few ideas I'm not too sure of. Firstly, would they be able to use the psi powers in all three forms, or would then need to take special feats? Second, would they be advantagus to each other? I know lycanthropes get a +2 wisdom, and Psichic Warriors need a good wisdom, but other than that, is it counter productive to be both? Thank you in advanced. I've played were-psi warriors before, they are awesome. I admit the level adjustment gets annoying, however if you can use variants to reduce them later it's not as bad at higher levels. As much as I like wolves, they get shafted as far as stats go, Riding Dogs get more for the same overall effect(think of a good breed). For another HD, you can use the War template in the back of MM2 on the base animal. It's worth it, pretty much +4 more to Constitution and Strength(and you can be ridden :) ) in addition to +10ft to speed in animal form. Were-Warwolves are pretty good. Or if you had the levels to burn, simply add a few more HD to that wolf and make it large, more str, con, and natural armor. Now for your only two psi warrior levels remaining take Monkey Grip and Exotic Weapon Proficiency Grandblade feats and take the expansion power. Now thats some awesome damage... (thats like 4d8 + 20 at LEAST right?). Just a few ideas... Personally I like taking Were-Cheetah monk and assasin... I use a spyglass or something to watch the target from afar, I spring attack them while using sprint, I usually hit them, they make the save or die, I'm go back and the target still isn't sure what the heck just happened (or dies hopefully), rinse and repeat an hour or so later (maybe). Of course, I could make a powerhouse Wilder who would make your head explode before you even reached for that Grandblade...
FrostWolf 02-16-07, 12:46 AM	The background I was thinking of would support a weredog(Riding, maybe a doberman or German shepard breed) very nicely. Special were breeds made by mages as guards and shock troops sort of idea. A group of them start manafesting psichic powers and escape. Mine will be one of the escapees offspring.
InkBlot 02-16-07, 02:05 AM	I spring attack them while using sprint Sprint can't be used with a spring attack. It only works on a charge.
PhaedrusXY 02-17-07, 02:27 PM	I would take a look at the phrenic template. It can get crazy when combined with the lycanthrope template, especially if you're using them as NPC monsters. Using high hit die base animals plus these two templates can lead to vastly overpowered creatures (according to their supposed CR).
Tsuul 02-17-07, 05:41 PM	How do you get by the armor restriction? Turning into a were-thing drops your gear, unlike the poly spell which melds it.
Jhaelen 02-19-07, 05:01 AM	How do you get by the armor restriction? Turning into a were-thing drops your gear, unlike the poly spell which melds it. Since the polymorph errata, gear melds with 'Alternate Shape', as well.
FrostWolf 02-19-07, 10:33 AM	Since the polymorph errata, gear melds with 'Alternate Shape', as well. Oh. I was just planning on taking the "quick -Escape" Extra from the Arms and Equipment guide. Maybe on a set of mithril, then enchant it with animate. so it can ball itself up into my backpack for travel. Or Dendritic armor. just make sure I keep a bit someplace on me. With a beetle Buckler too! (I love Arms and Equipment guide!)
Tsuul 02-19-07, 06:35 PM	Since the polymorph errata, gear melds with 'Alternate Shape', as well.Well what do you know. It's all been changed. I double and triple checked (cause lycanthrope alternate form (Su) worked differently then the normal alternate form (Su) in the un-errattad MM). But there it is. Armor melds, changes sizes and all that good stuff (as long as the form can wear it).
FrostWolf 03-04-07, 11:27 AM	So... It works even better than I first thought?
Redmoon 03-04-07, 12:43 PM	Apparently. And the psi users are the first people I've met who don't frown on playing a lycanthrope. Hm. I once made a wererat psychic warrior. He was a mobility build, all about being able to survive any encounter. With the feats like Stand Still, Speed of Thought, Up the Walls, and all the stuff like that added into a hybrid form and an animal form made it easy to survive any situation, even if surviving did mean fleeing through the sewers. It was made for a colisseum style campaign, where me & some other people just threw challenges at each other, to see if anyone could make one perfect all-around character. Mine came damned close.
Thomar_of_Uointer 03-04-07, 02:29 PM	So... It works even better than I first thought? Yup. Now that you have some good ideas, do you want to run your feat and power choices by us?
FrostWolf 03-05-07, 09:45 AM	Not yet. I'm waiting for an back issue of Dragon I ordered. gives rules for running a were critter starting as a level 1. Just need it to show up first(1 week late...), then, hopefuly I can get stsrted. Then I'll start throwing feat lists around.
Thomar_of_Uointer 03-05-07, 11:23 AM	Not yet. I'm waiting for an back issue of Dragon I ordered. gives rules for running a were critter starting as a level 1. Just need it to show up first(1 week late...), then, hopefuly I can get stsrted. Then I'll start throwing feat lists around. You mean like this? http://www.wizards.com/default.asp?x=dnd/sp/20040117a
Tsuul 03-05-07, 01:50 PM	and these: http://www.wizards.com/default.asp?x=dnd/sp/20031010a http://www.wizards.com/default.asp?x=dnd/sp/20030912a http://www.wizards.com/default.asp?x=dnd/sp/20031114a http://www.wizards.com/default.asp?x=dnd/sp/20031212a
FrostWolf 03-05-07, 07:30 PM	You mean like this? http://www.wizards.com/default.asp?x=dnd/sp/20040117a HA! So, seeing as I'd be starting as a level 1, Do you think taking my first level as Psi warrior, then start picking up were-critter levels after that would work? It works Like this, right? 1st-Psyonic Warrior (Natural lycanthrope, but not manafesting any of the abilites yet.) 2nd-Lycanthrope 3rd-Dog 4th- any of the three again.
Thomar_of_Uointer 03-05-07, 08:18 PM	HA! So, seeing as I'd be starting as a level 1, Do you think taking my first level as Psi warrior, then start picking up were-critter levels after that would work? It works Like this, right? 1st-Psionic Warrior (Natural lycanthrope, but not manafesting any of the abilites yet.) 2nd-Lycanthrope 3rd-Dog 4th- any of the three again. Well, not necessarily in that order. You do need a class level first, and you can't take levels in the animal class before you take levels in the template class because you don't even have the alternate form ability yet, but it's basically up to you.
FrostWolf 03-06-07, 09:07 AM	But that way will work? Nice. I'll do a write up of powers and feats tomorrow then.
FrostWolf 03-15-07, 01:36 PM	Wow! Forgot all about this! Sorry! (Please forgive any spelling mistakes as I'm now 20 hours without sleep) Stats:Human as Base, then weredog(riding): Human (LV-1) stats: Str:15 Dex:14 Con:14 Wis:17 Int:13 Cha:11 Here we go! FEATS: In no order yet: Psionic Fist, greater psionic fist, Expanded Knowledge (Astral Construct), Extend Power, Boost Construct, psionic Meditation. Planned Levels.(Subject to change based on suggestions) LV1: Psychic warrior LV2: Lycanthropy LV3: dog(German shepard? Saint Bernard? Recomendations for flavor) LV4: lycanthropy LV5: Dog LV6: Psychic warrior LV7: Psychic warrior LV8: Psychic warrior LV9: Psychic warrior LV10: Psychic warrior So, by the tenth level, I'll have 8 feats, maybe more. [Human (+1), Levels in psychic warrior(+4), every third level (+3), Have to see if the dog/lycan levels grat any feats.] POWERS: LV1: Expansion LV2: Prevenom LV3: (has to be a LV1 power, dunno what one) LV4: Body Adjustment LV5: Dissolving touch LV6: (has to be a LV1 or LV2 power, dunno what one) I know it's not a good plan, but I've never played eather a psionic OR a lycanthropic character, And might not get to play this one (But I'm going to make it just the same!:D ). Haven't thought of a name yet, but that don't matter yet. History:He is from a clan of nomadic lycanthropes. All specialy bred using vile magics and domestic animals to be spies, loyal troops, trustworthy guards, and obedieant servants. In an attept to make them smarter (so they could be trained easier) a few developed minor psionic powers. The mages tried to control these new additions to their armies, but to no avail, as most of them escaped. Over the years since the group escaped, they have picked up those "Normal" lycanthropes that sought a safe haven that they felt could be trusted. Also, they have offered sanctuary to anyone with psionic tallents that needed it, thus adding the lycanthropes from the MM, and psionic teachings to their slowly growing numbers. That will be where my were is from. One of the offspring of the tribe.
Thomar_of_Uointer 03-15-07, 01:47 PM	I would recommend going with natural lycanthrope. Control Shape is a pain to work with, and the DR 10/silver will make you a very powerful melee combatant. Also, wolves get free trip attempts and have just as many Hit Dice. Check out Practiced Manifester. Is there any reason why you are taking EK? Astral construct is always nice, but as a psychic warrior with damage reduction, you have no need for a meat shield and will only tire yourself out by summoning a monster that is weaker than you are. I would recommend taking dispel psionics, if only for its versatility and to make yourself more effective against spellcasters (a major weakness because they can ignore your DR). I would recommend vigor as a level 1 power. If you know you're going into a fight, you'll be happy you used it. Take it before prevenom, you'll need the extra hit points at lower levels. For a level 2 power, you can't go wrong with specified energy adaptation (remember, DR doesn't work against energy damage!) though when you take energy adaptation at level 4 see if you can reform it out for hustle (use it to regain focus in the middle of a full attack).
Lycanthromancer 03-15-07, 02:03 PM	Take Psicrystal Affinity instead of EK: Astral Construct. Psicrystals are so incredibly useful that it's not even funny (it's a tricorder/universal translator/late-night alarm system/scout/free power (Missive)/etc). it also makes a good fighting-companion, as you can share your powers with it, then have it attack alongside you (or it can Aid Another on your attacks, making Astral Construct fairly useless). Make sure your particular psicrystal's personality will benefit you as much as possible, as taking something that will be redundant later is not a good idea. Having Improved Initiative, a Nimble psicrystal, and a high Dexterity, for instance, is great for a psychic warrior, as you'll need to spend time buffing before most fights. Also, Extend Power is an absolute necessity (it'll save you scads of pp, certainly, especially with the longer-duration powers). Link Power (from CPsi) is great too, especially if you houserule the kinks out of it. Then take Vigor and Share Pain, and watch your hit points skyrocket. Defensive Precognition will boost your AC and saves. You can also take Overchannel to boost your manifester level (but only when it would increase the duration of your powers enough that it conserves your power points). Earth Power (from Races of Stone, I believe) and a Torc of Power Preservation are also must-haves. Oh, and since you have free natural attacks, make the most of that. Take Claws of Energy, Animal Affinity, and so on. Boost, boost, boost...Boost your wolf aggressiveness! [/Elan]
FrostWolf 03-15-07, 08:47 PM	I would recommend going with natural lycanthrope. Control Shape is a pain to work with, and the DR 10/silver will make you a very powerful melee combatant. Also, wolves get free trip attempts and have just as many Hit Dice. Check out Practiced Manifester. Is there any reason why you are taking EK? Astral construct is always nice, but as a psychic warrior with damage reduction, you have no need for a meat shield and will only tire yourself out by summoning a monster that is weaker than you are. I would recommend taking dispel psionics, if only for its versatility and to make yourself more effective against spellcasters (a major weakness because they can ignore your DR). I would recommend vigor as a level 1 power. If you know you're going into a fight, you'll be happy you used it. Take it before prevenom, you'll need the extra hit points at lower levels. For a level 2 power, you can't go wrong with specified energy adaptation (remember, DR doesn't work against energy damage!) though when you take energy adaptation at level 4 see if you can reform it out for hustle (use it to regain focus in the middle of a full attack). So I'll drop a level of psychic warrior for the third lycanthrope level (Honestly forgot about it.) But I won't be using wolf. Dog gives a better Str boost, fits the story better, and lets be honest, who bothers to look twice at a random dog walking down a city street (other than someone that is REALY hungry)? I think I will go with specified energy adaptation also. And I don't wish to give up the versatility of the Astral Construct, but if the psicrystal is that much better, I'll go with it. Maybe both? I'm kind of paranoid about flying baddies, and you can give the AC wings. So, eather that or Zen archery (to take advantage of my ungodly Wis). But if i counted my feats right, I may be able to take both.