Post/Author/DateTime	Post
Ao 04-11-05, 10:20 PM	The UA has a variant Fighter which gives up bonus feats for the Rogue's sneak attack class feature. I've seen the arguments that sneak attack is superior to the Scout's skirmish feature. I want to create a Fighter with skirmish. Question is, if sneak attack is superior to skirmish, should such a Fighter be given additional class features to bring it into "balance" with other classes (standard or otherwise). And, if so, what suggestions would you make for those additional class features?
Greyman 04-11-05, 11:35 PM	Sneak Attack is not superior to Skirmish. Sneak Attack deals more extra damage than Skirmish (at the same level), but that's because Skirmish adds an armor class bonus every odd ability increment. That is, Sneak Attack gives +2d6 damage at the second increment while Skirmish gives +1d6 damage and +1AC. The added defense is useful. Sneak Attack can apply to every attack in a full attack, as long as the conditions for the ability are met. Skirmish, by its condition of requiring a 10' move, is intended to preclude the use of full attack. This is countered by Skirmish being usable in more situation. Sneak Attack's conditions are dependant on situation (surprise, bluffing) and tactical movement (ie flanking) and the opponent can maneouver to counter the condition. Skirmish only requires you to be able to move about the battlefield, giving the character more control over when the ability can be used. Skirmish can only be used while in light or no armor, however, that does mean more of your dexterity bonus can be added to armor class. Also, while no such restriction is placed on Sneak Attack, the Tumble skill requires your speed not to be reduced by load or armor encumberance, which is important for moving into flanking position, without drawing an Attack of Opportunity, in order to use Sneak Attack.
OamuTheMonk 04-12-05, 12:11 AM	No, really. That covers it.