Arcane Schools
I'd love to see similar schools to the White Lotus school. The concept needs to be fleshed out a bit still, mainly to prevent too many feats stacking. I expect that there will be a similar rule as for domains and martial styles, that each power can only be modified by one feat. It's also possible that we will see a rewritten White Lotus which includes theses rules, and which is probably limited to a certain set of at-wills.
Swordmage
A Charisma-based aegis! Tiefling love! At the moment, we have one offensive and two defensive aegis variants. So it would be nice to have another offensive one. I'd also like to see a PP that gives you a second Aegis. And feats that allow to switch the ability scores for riders. Example:
Dextrous Assault
You can use your dexterity modifier instead of your strength modifier to determine the effects of swordmage powers.
Wizard
Wizards need more powers that deal status effects or otherwise hamper enemies. They have too many damage-only powers. I'd love to see tasty new at-wills. Also, more material that references the old magic schools. We've had illusion, conjuration, necromancy (limited) and evocation (badly). I'd love to see more abjuration and transmutation (baleful polymorph etc.) powers, and some real necromancy like summoning a skeleton.
We also haven't seen much enchantment yet, except for sleep. Enchantment is interesting because it would allow non-damage powers similar to the cleric. Divination is also interesting because it would allow a secondary leader, who gives bonuses to allies.
Warlock
We've had how many pacts now? 5? 6? It's enough. I'd rather like to see new at-wills, especially more replacements for Eldritch Strike, or alternatives for the compulsive pact-at-wills. At least a cha-based at-will for the Star Pact, damn it. A few pacts like the dark pact don't have much power choice yet and need more support. I'd also like to see pact-specific feats that create more diversity between the pacts. Example:
Infernal Walk
Prerequisite: Infernal Pact, 11th level
When you use your Shadow Walk, each enemy adjacent to you when you end your move takes fire damage equal to your Con modifier.
Fey Barrier
Prerequisite: Fey Pact, 11th level
When you gain concealment from your Shadow Walk, enemies cannot teleport into the square adjacent to you.
Sorcerer
Even though the Sorcerer is a newer class, there are already 4 paths for it, dragon, chaos, storm and cosmic. Like the Warlock, the class doesn't need a new build option that much. If there will be one, I'd like to see one that brings something new to the table, for example a new secondary (Con or Wis). It's hard to come up with something rules-wise or flavorwise that doesn't step on the Warlock's toes, like Int as secondary. There is already a bad precedent with Cosmic Sorcerer vs. Star Pact.
Artificer
Artificers should get plenty of material, because it's their first AP. It would be cool if they had a higher page count than other classes. As for new builds, I'd like to see a new secondary stat and role.
A dex-secondary artificer that leans striker would be cool, with lots of +Dexterity modifier damage powers.
Or, a str-secondary defender artificer with self-buffs like temp hp, higher defenses or resistances for himself in his powers.
Bard
The bard has traditionally been close to the rogue. I'd love to see a sneaky and acrobatic bard, with melee powers similar to the duelist, and dex secondary. Something comparable to the Blade bard kit of AD&D, a bard that is a master of flashy swordplay. The new virtue could look something like this...
Virtue of Panache
Once per round, when an enemy within a number of squares equal to your Dexterity modifier misses an attack, the enemy grants combat advantage to your allies until the end of its next turn.
I also want to see background information for each of the Vestiges. Who were these beings and what were there stories?
I agree wholeheartedly with the idea of expanding on the White Lotus trope: give us more Hogwarts, Beauxbatons and Durmstrang. Arcane means hidden knowledge: wizards, bards, warlocks, artificers and swordmages should have more of a bookish feel about them. And with such academies. Sorcerers would feel more rebellious and strange.
Bard:
Why does this class not already have a DEX secondary build?
Sorcerer:
Why does this class not already have a CON secondary build?
Sword-Mage:
Why is this class still restricted to Heavy Blades and Light Blades? It's a completely nonsensical restriction. Give me some Hammer builds, some Axe builds, some Flail builds, and so on...
Warlock:
I'm still waiting for my Death Pact. Making a deal with death seems like such an obvious concept that I can't see them not getting around to this eventually. Necromancy effects, etc. I'd also like to see alternate Pact At-Wills. You know, something like "If you selected Infernal Pact, you can select this power in place of Hellish Rebuke." Come to think of it, some Eldritch Blast alternative would be nice too.
Wizard:
Orb and Tome each have more than one Implement Mastery option. I'd like Staff and Wand to get similar treatment this time around.
I think some sort of tech build for artificer would be good, rather than a distinct class. Alternatively, a tech build for each class, perhaps with encounter and daily powers that boost other powers, representing the use of magical ingrediants that are common (historically, most any plant and rock was considered to have some sort of magical property), but require five minutes or an hour to mix properly.
Vestige pact already covers "I got a deal with dead people." For a death pact, the patron would just be death itself.
I think some unorthodox sword-mage build with a deal that says "you do not use long blades or short blades as implements, but one weapon category of your choice."
I think everyone agrees with the Warlock At-Wills, so I really don't see any reason why WoTC would've add some in there. A new pact would probably be unnecesary.
Artificer I'm not too familiar with, but I think it should get a lot of attention since its the new kid on the block.
Sorcerer, I'd like to see secondary stats beyond Dex and Str. Maybe a melee-focused build adding onto the powers that were presented in Dragon.
Wizard, I second the Arcane Implement options for Staffs and Wands. I'd also like to see more blast powers with hard control effects, and also a LOT more powers with Arcane Implement riders.
For the Bard, I could get behind the sneaky Bard build. It would also be interesting to see a Bard that actually has a reason to use an instrument as an implement. Seriously, why not a Bard that defeats enemies and bolsters allies with THE POWER OF ROCK!!!
As far as alternate Swordmage implements, I'd rather see an option to give up blades as implements to gain another weapon group rather than a Feat. It's an option that you shouldn't have to pay a Feat to get IMO.
I'd add even more support for alternate implement masteries for the Staff and Wand. Likewise on alternate at-wills for Warlocks.
As far as alternate Swordmage implements, I'd rather see an option to give up blades as implements to gain another weapon group rather than a Feat. It's an option that you shouldn't have to pay a Feat to get IMO.
Get the do it at home starter kit. As a DM I allow my players to select what weapon groups they want to use for this class, blades just happen to be the most incompassing and versatile group, and therefore most appealing (and iconic).
Artificer - We'll probably get a reprint of the powers from the recent Dragon article. On top of that I would like to see a more defenderish build, perhaps with a Str secondary.
Swordmage - I'd love to see a dual-wielding build but with multiple types of off-hand options such as tomes, wands, and light blades. Powers could have different riders depending on what your offhand implement you wield, maybe even have it affect their aegis.
Bard - Yeah why haven't we seen a Dex build yet? Some sort of dashing swordsman or whatever. With so many Strikers using Dex in some way the multi-class options would be huge, and perhaps thats why we haven't seen it. I can already imagine the crazy builds. Bard/Rogue/Ranger/Monk/Assassin/Avenger/Barbarian... maybe thats a bad idea...
Artificer - We'll probably get a reprint of the powers from the recent Dragon article. On top of that I would like to see a more defenderish build, perhaps with a Str secondary.
Swordmage - I'd love to see a dual-wielding build but with multiple types of off-hand options such as tomes, wands, and light blades. Powers could have different riders depending on what your offhand implement you wield, maybe even have it affect their aegis.
Bard - Yeah why haven't we seen a Dex build yet? Some sort of dashing swordsman or whatever. With so many Strikers using Dex in some way the multi-class options would be huge, and perhaps thats why we haven't seen it. I can already imagine the crazy builds. Bard/Rogue/Ranger/Monk/Assassin/Avenger/Barbarian... maybe thats a bad idea...
Almost none of those are really optimal though. and you'd never have a bard power, or any feats besides the multiclass feats
Something similar to the 'stance' power that martial classes get. Maybe it could be a way to keep a zone up without burning a minor action to do so.
More fluff around the vestige pacts. They are just such a great story telling idea
The divine gods of magic. (ie, Ioun. Corellon, etc) need some interplay with the arcane classes
I would really love to see a death pact warlock.
I wouldn't mind seeing a few (like 1 per tier, say 3rd, 13th, and 27th) weapon attack encounters for wizards that cn be used as MBA, and have a cool rider if you have staff mastery...
Some Weapon powers for the Warlock to go with that Eldritch Strike they can get at-will would be nice. I would much rather see alternate pact at-wills than new pacts.
I'll echo the dual wielding Swordmage thought. I'd also like it if the Swordmage warding worked so long as you were wielding any implement you were proficient in and not just Heavy/Light blades. It would be nice if my Gnome could get away with using just a Wand (and possibly an implement at-will that counts as a Melee Basic to go with such a build).
More cantrips for the Wizard and/or more ways for other classes to get cantrips/cantrip-like effects.
Some ideas for Wizard implement masteries:
Wand of Repulsion
Once per encounter, as an immediate interrupt, push an adjacent enemy who attacks you a number of squares equal to your Dexterity modifier.
Staff of Shattering
Once per encounter, deal additional damage equal to your Constitution modifier to all targets you hit with one power and knock them prone.
I also support the idea of off-hand implements for swordmages. That is absolutely awesome. There already is the dual implement spellcaster feat to make this possible, but it would be even better if you had specialized swordmage feats with a certain effect depending on your implement choice (rod / staff / orb / tome / light blade). Your left hand free is equal to an always on +2 AC, which you have to give up, so off-hand implements should be in that power range.
Light blade: +[W] on damage with melee attacks with main hand?
Tome:
Rod: 1/round, gain temp hp = Con on hit with attack?
Oh, and we need errata for Swordmage Warding that when you use your off-hand during your turn for an attack (including using a two-handed weapon), that you lose your increased warding bonus until the start of your next turn. Otherwise we have all these weird builds again where people draw an an off-hand item at the start of their turn and stash it at the end, all as some kind of free action.
Artificer - I know it's a little hard to pull off, but I'd like some material for the artificer that feels a little bit more like a magical mechanic and a little bit less like an an enchanter. The original playtest had a little more of this going on, and frankly I'm glad they changed it (it was mechanically weird), but I feel like the artificer has lost a little of his unique punch.
Swordmage - I'd be very surprised if they don't build in some kind of support for either different weapons or two-weapon fighting. On the other hand, they may want to avoid pulling the swordmage too close to other defender classes.
Warlock - Like some other posters, I wouldn't feel too shortchanged if there wasn't a new pact. Perhaps some lateral class options that replace shadow walk or prime shot. MP2 demonstrates a willingness to provide alternatives for class features that aren't replacable by default.
Sorcerer - Any new sorcerer options need to be things that really change the way the class plays, not just grant access to a different set of paragon paths, riders, and some random ability that triggers when you roll a 20 or get bloodied or whatever. The existing options are already fairly homogeneous compared to most classes. While they have sweet flavor, the mechanical differences between a storm and wild sorcerer are razor thin. I would not mind seeing strong source-specific feats that really differentiate the builds.
With regards to new secondaries - I feel as though new builds with previously unused secondary stats (like the prescient bard) are a blessing and a curse. While new secondaries allow for different feat access for a class and make new races interesting choices, they tend to have less backwards compatibility with old riders and utility powers. I feel as if new secondaries should have very compelling mechanical (Con-based sorcerer that uses close and touch attacks) or flavorful angle.
Artificers. Anything for the Artificer. The main game I'm in I play an Artificer and the class is practically starved for attention. We were supposed to get a second dragon article this month, but it disappeared off the calender. So yeah, I'd love to see at least two new builds and would sacrifice two pigeons and a goat to get an at-will that could compete with Magic Weapon.
Some Weapon powers for the Warlock to go with that Eldritch Strike they can get at-will would be nice. I would much rather see alternate pact at-wills than new pacts.
I'll echo the dual wielding Swordmage thought. I'd also like it if the Swordmage warding worked so long as you were wielding any implement you were proficient in and not just Heavy/Light blades. It would be nice if my Gnome could get away with using just a Wand (and possibly an implement at-will that counts as a Melee Basic to go with such a build).
More cantrips for the Wizard and/or more ways for other classes to get cantrips/cantrip-like effects.
A gnome with a wand isn't a swordmage. I have no problem allowing players to substitute weapon groups, or dual weild with an implement in the off hand, but carrying only an implement, that isn't a mystic swordsman. Thats a wizard in leather armor.
A gnome with a wand isn't a swordmage. I have no problem allowing players to substitute weapon groups, or dual weild with an implement in the off hand, but carrying only an implement, that isn't a mystic swordsman. Thats a wizard in leather armor.
Funny though, 'cause Swordmages are already rather capable of just using an implement. He just loses 3 AC. One AC if you decide to go Dual Implement Spellcaster.
And it's not like my Gnome doesn't play like a Swordmage. Yes, he's got crappy MBAs, but so does any non-assault swordmage that doesn't invest in feats and uses a tiny weapon.
A gnome with a wand isn't a swordmage. I have no problem allowing players to substitute weapon groups, or dual weild with an implement in the off hand, but carrying only an implement, that isn't a mystic swordsman. Thats a wizard in leather armor.
Funny though, 'cause Swordmages are already rather capable of just using an implement. He just loses 3 AC. One AC if you decide to go Dual Implement Spellcaster.
And it's not like my Gnome doesn't play like a Swordmage. Yes, he's got crappy MBAs, but so does any non-assault swordmage that doesn't invest in feats and uses a tiny weapon.
Yes but they are still expected to weild a sword. If you take a feat to use something that isn't a sword as implement so be it, i don't think that it should be an option for the arcane swordsman. Now Dua Weilding with a non sword implent in the other hand i have no problem with, and would love to see support for any implent in off hand, specifically another blade.
Artificer
Gadgeteer Artificer: Uses CHA as a secondary stat, and focuses more on the controller aspects of the artificer. This would be more of a summoning-focused build that concentrated on building constructs, devices, and alchemical solutions.
Abjuring Artificer: Uses CON as a secondary stat. A semi-defender with the ability to protect his allies with magic barriers, and keep enemies at bay.
Bard
Virtue of Grace: A DEX-secondary build for the more roguish bards out there. A blade-dancer type skilled at moving through the battlefield, buffing allies, and hindering enemies.
Sorcerer
Godborn Sorcerer: An idea heard elsewhere on the forums. A STR-based sorcerer build focused on melee and close burst attacks which do a lot of fire and radiant damage.
Swordmage
Dual-Weapon Swordmage: A swordmage which can use both a weapon and an implement (or two weapons) also sounds like a good idea.
Warlock
Death Pact: A new warlock pact focused on minor necromantic abilities involving life draining and necrotic damage. May also include minor summoning abilities.
The other pacts should also get some expanded abilities, such as additional options for at-will powers.
Wizard
Enchanter Wizard: Focuses less on direct damage and more on imposing conditions on enemies. May include a lot of charm and dominate powers.
A couple more implement abilities might also be a good idea, as would plenty of new rituals. Can never have too many of those.
Yes but they are still expected to weild a sword. If you take a feat to use something that isn't a sword as implement so be it, i don't think that it should be an option for the arcane swordsman. Now Dua Weilding with a non sword implent in the other hand i have no problem with, and would love to see support for any implent in off hand, specifically another blade.
Not "they are expected to wear a sword", you expect a swordmage to wear a sword. That doesn't mean a player can't take the class, remove the sword, and call it an "abjurer" or whatever. Works just fine, especially if part of a hybrid.
Yes but they are still expected to weild a sword. If you take a feat to use something that isn't a sword as implement so be it, i don't think that it should be an option for the arcane swordsman. Now Dua Weilding with a non sword implent in the other hand i have no problem with, and would love to see support for any implent in off hand, specifically another blade.
Not "they are expected to wear a sword", you expect a swordmage to wear a sword. That doesn't mean a player can't take the class, remove the sword, and call it an "abjurer" or whatever. Works just fine, especially if part of a hybrid.
The class is designed as a mystic swordsman, the idea behind the class is combing magic and martial prowess into a unique form. If you want them to weild other implements thats fine, but as far as making it part of the class I see no need. You want a front line wizard/sorcerer then take the feat tax to do so.
Even the dual weild build I would like to see set up as intially based on swords but the riders being off hand implements to support thos who do take the feat to weild other implements.
The poor MBA is a problem however, and I would like to see at-will or at least a lot more encounter powers that can take the place, and not just as a OA or Charge. The assault swordmage is the only one that can make a decent showing with their MBA as is, and so the other will often waste their warlords free attack.
The class is designed as a mystic swordsman, the idea behind the class is combing magic and martial prowess into a unique form. If you want them to weild other implements thats fine, but as far as making it part of the class I see no need. You want a front line wizard/sorcerer then take the feat tax to do so.
You're confusing fluff limits (use a sword because it's called swordmage) with crunch (the actual rules). 4th edition is more flexible than you think, and several classes have already been reimagined with sourcebook builds by the dev team. Just think about the rogue, which got reskinned as a fancy duelist and a thug with a club, and the bard, which got reskinned as an archer. The fighter got reskinned for light-armored dual-wielding. If you remove the swordmage name and allow the class to use a staff you have classic abjurer/war wizard. It just takes a little imagination.
You're confusing fluff limits (use a sword because it's called swordmage) with crunch (the actual rules).
Sure, but since swordmages without swords completely fly in the face of the WotC fluff, I see no particular reason for WotC to provide character options that are so radically far outside their envisioned concept for the class.
The other examples you give are not major departures (from a fluff/flavour point of view) from their original concepts. Swordmages without swords are.
The class is designed as a mystic swordsman, the idea behind the class is combing magic and martial prowess into a unique form. If you want them to weild other implements thats fine, but as far as making it part of the class I see no need. You want a front line wizard/sorcerer then take the feat tax to do so.
You're confusing fluff limits (use a sword because it's called swordmage) with crunch (the actual rules). 4th edition is more flexible than you think, and several classes have already been reimagined with sourcebook builds by the dev team. Just think about the rogue, which got reskinned as a fancy duelist and a thug with a club, and the bard, which got reskinned as an archer. The fighter got reskinned for light-armored dual-wielding. If you remove the swordmage name and allow the class to use a staff you have classic abjurer/war wizard. It just takes a little imagination.
Thats all well and good, but thats not the intention of the class, i have the imagination, and I'm fine with people taking it, but it is a departure from the archetype the developers wished to fill.
Swordmages with out swords are fine. I can see dwarves having axe mages, or goliaths having hammer mages, and I'm even fine with a tiefling focusing on clubs to weild staff implements as both implement and quarterstaff(IIRC this is part of staff mechanics, if not i made it up). But these stay true to the idea of a mixture of arcne and martial actions to form a new fighting style. You want a war wizard, well you can go war wizard build, make a swordmage and say part of your war wizard training mas a weapon to channel attacks, make a swordmage and pay a feat tax to use a new implement.
Fighter is a martial master of combat, each build is a focus on a new style of combat, but all stay true to mastering fighting skills.
The rogue can is a general concept. Rogue is a title that has beenused on several archetype forever, and thus it has a lot of variety. Martial classes are the most general conecpt s in the game.
And bards had military ranged training since day one, playing that up isn't so much of a stretch. I don't know why it was tied in the way it was but they had something already supported but not backed and combined it with luck powers, fine the archery was already there and we now have a mystic archer build as well.
- Alternate at-wills for Warlock Pacts
- Alternate Wand and Staff Implement Masteries, possibly using Str as secondary (only one we don't have yet)
- A Dexterity Bard build
- Varied schools of magic, and a rewrite of White Lotus balancing it (damn, it really shouldn't be allowed to apply all those feats at once >.<)
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I don't think Artificers need all that focus people are asking for. I mean, we already had a third build in a Dragon Article, which would be pretty much all the focus they'd get in AP1.
After that, I want to see a different economic system for rituals. Martial Power just gave away a whole ritual system with the cost of only healing surges to martial classes, while anyone can take rituals away from arcane casters who have to pay out ludicrous sums of gold to cast their spells. Needless to say, I'm a bit bitter about this and I committed to never purchasing another Power book except Arcane as soon as first word of Martial Practices broke.
I'd also like a section that discusses and details arcane universities. Or even one specific example to use. Like the White Lotus article in DDi, but a lot more detailed.
Beyond that, I like the previous suggestions. Well, except giving any class but Wizards cantrips. Wizards have little enough as it is.
My first Arcane Power 2 request is to simply get one because I don't think we will be.
After that, I want to see a different economic system for rituals. Martial Power just gave away a whole ritual system with the cost of only healing surges to martial classes, while anyone can take rituals away from arcane casters who have to pay out ludicrous sums of gold to cast their spells. Needless to say, I'm a bit bitter about this and I committed to never purchasing another Power book except Arcane as soon as first word of Martial Practices broke.
I'd also like a section that discusses and details arcane universities. Or even one specific example to use. Like the White Lotus article in DDi, but a lot more detailed.
Beyond that, I like the previous suggestions. Well, except giving any class but Wizards cantrips. Wizards have little enough as it is.
Actually, expanding on the ritual concept would be a good idea. One idea for mitigating the cost of rituals could be an "Advanced Ritual Caster" feat that reduces the cost of ritual magic by 3/4s or something.
Other ideas might include rare components that reduce the cost of rituals when used to cast them, or a "sacrifice" system that replaces part of the gold cost with the souls of sentient beings (but would be skewed toward evil characters).
A minion summoning Necromancer-Build for the Wizard. Minions that are able to contribute in battle!
Please, no! The Wizard already steps on the toes of a possible Illusionist or Beguiller class, of all possible Elemental casters, and of the psion. Let's not make the same true for the Necromancer as well!
Actually, expanding on the ritual concept would be a good idea. One idea for mitigating the cost of rituals could be an "Advanced Ritual Caster" feat that reduces the cost of ritual magic by 3/4s or something.
Other ideas might include rare components that reduce the cost of rituals when used to cast them, or a "sacrifice" system that replaces part of the gold cost with the souls of sentient beings (but would be skewed toward evil characters).
I agree. Rituals are great, but I haven't seen many cast in the last two years because of the component cost and, even more, the time involved. I guess this depends on the campaign, but in our groups, regardless of the DM, the ritual casters hardly found the time to use their spells.
So yes, another vote for a feat that reduces the time and gold requirements for rituals. The improved ritual caster feat we already have is a joke: You're better of taking skill focus in the relevant skill (of all feats...)
I also like the idea of rare components: These can be handed out in place of regular treasure, and they would be worth an equivalent gold value in residuum plus some kind of effect that enhances rituals. The possibilities are endless, from rare plants that give a bonus in healing rituals to rare metals that speed up item creation, gems that help in divination, and of course monster parts!
For example, if you kill a purple worm you get a purple worm tooth as treasure, worth 500 gp in residuum and if used in alchemy gives +2 to the check for any potion with the acid keyword. Then, of course, there is demon blood, dragon scales, bat wings, spider nets, giant toad legs, dire wolf pelts... In fact, these items can act as adventure hooks, as it finally gives PCs a straightforward reason to seek out rare and dangerous monsters and kill them. And that's what the game is about, after all.
The only caveat I have with this idea is that it is better suited to Adventurer's Vault 3, rather than Arcane Power 2.
Arcane Spell Schools would be another thing on my wish-list.
And more familiar/feats ofcourse. >:3
Some ideas:
Bard
Virtue of Grace: A DEX-secondary build for the more roguish bards out there. A blade-dancer type skilled at moving through the battlefield, buffing allies, and hindering enemies.
Actually, I had just used the exact same name for my houseruled dex-secondary Bard Virtue ! Virtue of Grace was something like that : Gain +1 AC while not wearing heavy armor. Whenever you reduce an enemy to 0 HP, all your allies within 5 squares gain a bonus do their AC equel to your DEX bonus against opportunity attacks.
Not my design for the virtue was great (it was supposed to make the Bard go to the frontline, so that he had to take risks to benefit from his virtue), but it's always fun to see people come up with the same kind of idea...
Naturally, I also crave for a dex secondary bard option, representing a swashbuckling/dancing bard. Multiclassing into rogue should be a natural option for Bards !!
an elven/eladrin/half-elven/drow Bladesinger PP
I've read this request several times by now (might be always the same poster). I wonder: The classic Bladesinger is a 2nd edition elf Wizard / Fighter multiclass. However, in 2nd edition that meant a Wizard with a better BAB and the ability to wield a sword. (Yes, I checked the old 2nd edition book.)
Now, in 4th edition, BAB is gone, and a Wizard can have pretty good melee basic attack with just 2 feats. Or he could go Wizard of the Spiral Tower PP. Or you could make swordmage instead. Or hybrid Fighter / Wizard. Or hybrid Wizard / Swordmage. Or Wizard / Warlord. Or...
So, out of curiosity: If there was a Bladesinger PP
- What class should it be based on
- What class features should it have
- How would it be different from the options I listed above?
The fighting style is 1-handed weapons only - although it can be pretty much any one-handed weapon, it doesn't actually have to have a blade. Gives an alternating bonus to attack or defense or allows an attack and a parry in the same round. Basically, Bladesingers who are just other classes that have spent their WPs in Bladesinging have 3 combat modes - Attack, Defense, and Mixed.
As for Bladesinger the character kit, it's a couple of hit bonuses and armor bonuses with some minor roleplaying minuses. No heavy armor, 1-handed weapons only. You need to be a fighter-mage to take the kit, so you're basically a fighter who casts some wizard spells. Really, Bladesinger doesn't need to be a prestige class, it's already in 4th edition - it's just called the Swordmage.
Namely, a paragon path specifically for Bards who multiclass into Druid. Fili would be a good name for it. I'm thinking, for starters, ability for Bards to use implements with which they're proficient with Druid powers and Charisma in place of Wisdom to attack and damage with them. And then a lot of other cool, Celtic-inspired stuff attached. That'll bring back the flavor of the 1st Ed. Bard.
Since Martial Power 2 introduced paragon paths for martial characters multiclassing to other power sources (e.g. Avernian Knight, Arcane Trickster, Arcane Battlemaster), that opens the door for something I've been dying to see for quite some time.
Namely, a paragon path specifically for Bards who multiclass into Druid. Fili would be a good name for it. I'm thinking, for starters, ability for Bards to use implements with which they're proficient with Druid powers and Charisma in place of Wisdom to attack and damage with them. And then a lot of other cool, Celtic-inspired stuff attached. That'll bring back the flavor of the 1st Ed. Bard.
Fili is just one of the Irish names for the Scholarly caste in the old Celtic caste system. I think that Ovate would probably be a better name, denoting prophet, and being tightly associated with Bards and Druids within the Scholarly Caste, and having nominal forms throughout the Celtic World (Fáith in Ireland, Ofydd in Wales, Vates in Gaul, etc).
But I think your idea is -awesome-.
A sorcerer who channels his arcane might through his emotions like the old 3e rage mage. It'd fulfill that archtype of the enraged blaster who goes around demolishing everything.
It would be great to see it Con based.
I'd love to see a rage sorcerer.
A sorcerer who channels his arcane might through his emotions like the old 3e rage mage. It'd fulfill that archtype of the enraged blaster who goes around demolishing everything.
It would be great to see it Con based.
I think they'd wind up doing Str-based so it could multiclass well with barbarian (likely thaneborn).
The sorcerer build should allow Channelling through any light blade, and the powers should be ranged powers (mostly targeting reflex), but have channeling damage expressions ("Special: if you channel this power through a dagger or light blade, it does 2[W]+Cha damage instead"). Secondary stat should be Dex or Int. Kickers should be more mobility-oriented.
The Warlock build should be focused on the Con pacts, and just sprinkle the occassional Weapon attack at various levels, like Eldritch Strike ... with appropriate Infernal/Star/Vestige kickers. The kickers should tend toward meatshield/defender-lite control effects. (Marks, mark-like free damage if you attack someone else, slows, immobilize, prones, etc)
Since Martial Power 2 introduced paragon paths for martial characters multiclassing to other power sources (e.g. Avernian Knight, Arcane Trickster, Arcane Battlemaster), that opens the door for something I've been dying to see for quite some time.
Namely, a paragon path specifically for Bards who multiclass into Druid. Fili would be a good name for it. I'm thinking, for starters, ability for Bards to use implements with which they're proficient with Druid powers and Charisma in place of Wisdom to attack and damage with them. And then a lot of other cool, Celtic-inspired stuff attached. That'll bring back the flavor of the 1st Ed. Bard.
Fili is just one of the Irish names for the Scholarly caste in the old Celtic caste system. I think that Ovate would probably be a better name, denoting prophet, and being tightly associated with Bards and Druids within the Scholarly Caste, and having nominal forms throughout the Celtic World (Fáith in Ireland, Ofydd in Wales, Vates in Gaul, etc).
But I think your idea is -awesome-.
I'm partial to recycling the ol' Fochlucan Lyrist title, myself.
I would also like to see more creation type rituals, all the way up to mythals, as it would give something for PC's to strive toward (as in "Why no, you take all the gold, this old scroll which explains how to safeguard Silverymoon is all I need")
For that matter, it would nice to go back through all the 2.0 to 3.5 spells and find what rituals we could create, up to an including Wish. The game does not NEED a wish ritual, but players just really like the idea of a genie showing up and offering to give them their heart's desire (complications then ensue).
I would also like to see a more elaborate set of rules for how spells can interact with single-use terrain. That was an idea introduced in the DMG2, although WoC has not done much with it since. Letting PC's bounce a spell off a mirror, using magic missile to cause a rope to break or chandelier to fall just has so much more interesting than giving PC's a whole new set of abilities.
Totemist Warden/Monk hybrid who can summon the spirits of magical beasts as natural attacks...
Dragon Shaman/sorc who summons the spirits of wyrms....
Daggerspell Mage for Sorce/Rogues with the blade channelling feat....
Unseen Seer Arcane/Rogues for those sneaky spellcasters....
Dirgesingers for when the Shadow Source arrives....
Soulborn and Incarnate divine/monk classes that weave the energy of incarnum....
Dracolexi Cleric or Invoker/Sorcerers who speak the power words of the dragon tongue....
Truenamer Wizard/Invokers....
Many possibilities...
Daggerspell Mage for Sorce/Rogues with the blade channelling feat....
Oh god, this please. =D
Dirgesingers for when the Shadow Source arrives....
Yes, yes, yes!
Daggerspell Mage for Sorce/Rogues with the blade channelling feat....
Oh god, this please. =D
I second!
I am still waiting for the Dragon Pact Warlock, one who makes a deal with an ancient dragon for their power while becoming their pawn/slave/ally.
Agreed. Dragon Pact, Genie Pact, and Marut Pact seem to be the strongest concepts for future Warlock Pacts.
I am still waiting for the Dragon Pact Warlock, one who makes a deal with an ancient dragon for their power while becoming their pawn/slave/ally.
Agreed. Dragon Pact, Genie Pact, and Marut Pact seem to be the strongest concepts for future Warlock Pacts.
Couldn't you just fold Dragon and Genie together with Elementals to get an Elemental pact? And for the Marut Pact, It would probably be better to fold that into an Astral pact for Immortal creatures.
Also, I don't know much about Dark Sun, but isn't the Sorcerer-King Pact (which is essentially a Dragon Pact) already confirmed?
I'm mostly suggesting the more broad pacts because no Warlock Pact so far has been "you get power from this particular creature". It always gives you a wide range of possible patrons (espcially Vestiges), instead of just, "You get power from Maruts... yes... Maruts, and only Maruts..."
Anyway, in looking back, I noticed that Swordmages have got almost nothing in the way of support beyond Arcane Power and couple dragon articles, so I'm hoping that AP2 has a lot of awesome new powers, and at least one at-will that can be used as a melee basic attack.
I could also get behind the Weapon/Impliment Swordmage. Perhaps some new class feature such as:
Ambidextrous Spellsword
When you are wielding two implements that you can use, at least one of which is a Light Blade or a Heavy Blade, you gain the benefit of your Swordmage Warding even though you do not have a hand free. In addition, you gain Dual Implement Spellcaster as a bonus feat, even if you do not meet the prerequisites.
Yeah, you could combine the two into an Elemental Pact and get a decent result, then just walk in reflavor and your done no harm no foul on my part, I'd prefer a straight dragon pact to this but I'll admit I'm not above refluff when needed.
As for the Sorcerer-King Pact, you make an excellent point that this may in fact be the dragon pact, but remember alot of what makes a Sorcerer King is being skilled in both Psionics and Magic so this flavor might still be involved which is a unique touch to Dark Sun. Again that's where the reflavoring comes is, and we do need to see it to understand it. For all we know they could forgo the psionic aspect of the Sorcerer-King mythos for this pact and it could be the ideal dragon pact.
Just have to wait and see for Dark Sun.
How about a bunch of Warlock powers with Dragon fluff that have riders for Infernal and Vestiage pacts? Maybe the Green Dragon power has fey, and the Purple Dragon power has Dark too!
And maybe pet based Warlock? Beyond your average familiar, an imp, sprite, floating eyes of the vestige, or shadow that makes attacks alongside you? Stepping on the Beastmaster's toes? Perhaps . . . but I can see people enjoying the concept.
Plus, even if summoners have gotten a lukewarm reception, for the love of fluff can we have some Dragon summoning powers? Wyrmspirit Binder PP? Lesser Dragon Orbs as implements?
Couldn't you just fold Dragon and Genie together with Elementals to get an Elemental pact? And for the Marut Pact, It would probably be better to fold that into an Astral pact for Immortal creatures. Also, I don't know much about Dark Sun, but isn't the Sorcerer-King Pact (which is essentially a Dragon Pact) already confirmed?--Chameleon-X
Yeah, you could combine the two into an Elemental Pact and get a decent result, then just walk in reflavor and your done no harm no foul on my part, I'd prefer a straight dragon pact to this but I'll admit I'm not above refluff when needed.
As for the Sorcerer-King Pact, you make an excellent point that this may in fact be the dragon pact, but remember alot of what makes a Sorcerer King is being skilled in both Psionics and Magic so this flavor might still be involved which is a unique touch to Dark Sun. Again that's where the reflavoring comes is, and we do need to see it to understand it. For all we know they could forgo the psionic aspect of the Sorcerer-King mythos for this pact and it could be the ideal dragon pact.
Just have to wait and see for Dark Sun.
Sorcerer-King Pact will probably be flavor-neutral enough that it (like the Dark Pact from FR) can be adapted to non-Dark Sun campaigns. They might even include footnotes in the player's guide on how to adapt the mechanics to other settings.
Multiclass-oriented paragon paths seem to be a good idea, such as an Arcane Archer (Bard/Ranger) or the aforementioned Bard/Druid combination. Perhaps even a "psychic enchanter" type of class combining Psion and Wizard, with the ability to use power points to give a boost to arcane spells.
The first part of your feat seems fine, but adding free Dual Implement Spellcaster on top? >.> Don't quit your day job.
Okay, so ignore the second part.
In any case, I'd just like to see more close blasts and DEFINITELY more area burst powers for Swordmages. We have like, what, two so far? Granted, the second one is awesome to the Nth degree, but a paragon-level option to replace Incendiary Sword would be greatly appreciated.
The first part of your feat seems fine, but adding free Dual Implement Spellcaster on top? >.> Don't quit your day job.
Okay, so ignore the second part.
In any case, I'd just like to see more close blasts and DEFINITELY more area burst powers for Swordmages. We have like, what, two so far? Granted, the second one is awesome to the Nth degree, but a paragon-level option to replace Incendiary Sword would be greatly appreciated.
Erm, guys? There is another problem here. Dual-wielding Swordmages have no other class feature to give up in exchange for Warding on dual-wield.
And don't forget that +3 warding is balanced because it replaces a shield. If you get an off-hand weapon and +3 warding, it's immediately broken because of weapons with the defensive property.
A dual-wielding swordmage only needs attack powers that use the off-hand, everything else is fine as-is. With the dual implement spellcaster feat, it's pretty effective to wield an off-hand weapon already anyway.
We need more Close Blast power for Bard...and Bards that gain SOMETHING from weilding an enchanted instrument as implement. As is those things are fairly useless. You're always better off going Melee + Shield or Wand + Shield for defenses, or combine two types of attacks (Blades that act as implement and melee weapon or melee weapon with thrown property, etc) for versatility. Instrument need to be used two handed and limit you to implement powers.
I would like to see more love for instruments in upper Paragon and Epic, though. After Lv. 15 or so I find myself just keeping that ol' Cli Lyre around for rituals and moving on to a wand for my implement proper. Of course, having Bard rituals higher than Lv. 10 as an incentive to stay with instruments would help that.
I got that bard ritual that lets you shave off 2 hours of an extanded rest (Song of Restfulness)...and I'm a Drow...meaning I only need to Trance for 2 hours :p
With my Darkvision no one is sneaking up on us during the night.
I love the familiars, so more options to build upon the familiars would be great, new feats and new familiar choices. Maybe something to have a second familiar(not sure if it'd be useful but they are fun rpwise).
Also, I would like to see a power-swap feat for wizards, sorcerers, and bards (it hurts the warlock flavor to include them) that is NOT a multi-class feat, but just lets you steal one spell from one of the other classes and use your highest ability modifier for it. This may sound 3.5ish, but I always thought an important aspect of the arcane classes' flavor was that sorcerers could do many of the same things as wizards, but in a different way, setting up a rivalry between those schools of magic.
This "commonality" of the arcane power source exists to some extent, such as sorcerers being able to apply damage bonuses to all arcane powers, and all classes being able to swap implements for a feat. I'd like to see this theme made more significant, kind of like arcane's "schtick" is that there are a certain number of spells out there and different means of "accessing" them.
This theme's ultimate expression might be an epic destiny that any arcane character could enter that is similar to the Eternal Seeker, but only for spells and allows even more cross-class ransacking of spells, without necessarily multiclassing.
I just want a PILE of new spells for wizards and sorcerers. Comb through the old Spell Compendium and rob ideas from that. Experiment with the flavor of spells, as too many of them feel generic. Half of Arcane Power's wizard powers felt a bit like "an illusion chills your foe's heart and inflicts X (save ends)."
Also, I would like to see a power-swap feat for wizards, sorcerers, and bards (it hurts the warlock flavor to include them) that is NOT a multi-class feat, but just lets you steal one spell from one of the other classes and use your highest ability modifier for it. This may sound 3.5ish, but I always thought an important aspect of the arcane classes' flavor was that sorcerers could do many of the same things as wizards, but in a different way, setting up a rivalry between those schools of magic.
This "commonality" of the arcane power source exists to some extent, such as sorcerers being able to apply damage bonuses to all arcane powers, and all classes being able to swap implements for a feat. I'd like to see this theme made more significant, kind of like arcane's "schtick" is that there are a certain number of spells out there and different means of "accessing" them.
This theme's ultimate expression might be an epic destiny that any arcane character could enter that is similar to the Eternal Seeker, but only for spells and allows even more cross-class ransacking of spells, without necessarily multiclassing.
I agree with this whole-heartedly.
then a list of flat options available for them? shared options intra power source
all with attack stat "INT or CHA" and pretty simple effects with minors in controlling or damaging or buffs
so to have the possibility to give some minor buff effect to the wizard to recreate the old trasmutation school flavour, a warlock with some minor area blast, a sorcerer with some controlling effect
so to have minor options for building his own secondary combat-role
an as fluff having more the arcane as a common pool of energy, differeent only in term of "way to get access to it"
...what about a little system of common arcane magic? something like the Skill Utility Powers: all arcane classes can choose from them
then a list of flat options available for them? shared options intra power source
all with attack stat "INT or CHA" and pretty simple effects with minors in controlling or damaging or buffs
so to have the possibility to give some minor buff effect to the wizard to recreate the old trasmutation school flavour, a warlock with some minor area blast, a sorcerer with some controlling effect
so to have minor options for building his own secondary combat-role
an as fluff having more the arcane as a common pool of energy, differeent only in term of "way to get access to it"
Why not just create "Arcane ONLY" rituals?
I personally think that rituals should be divided into types, some should be universal, and Martial Practices shoudl be folded into rituals. But that would take an edition change, so…
Why not just create "Arcane ONLY" rituals?
I personally think that rituals should be divided into types, some should be universal, and Martial Practices shoudl be folded into rituals. But that would take an edition change, so…
Well, they could actually do that already. Martial Practices were unique not only for being divided, but because they changed the component cost to a healing surge system. Likewise, individual power sources could have a distinct brand of ritualism that varies in how it is carried out.
Arcane Evocations could be exotic and esoteric, full of strange requirements, complex configurations, or particular circumstances.
Divine Sacraments could be extremely costly, demanding sacrifice, but allow the burden to be shared amongst multiple individuals, so that a chorus is more powerful than a longer and a priest is aided by his congregation.
Primal Rites could vary depending on location or time; a single ability might work differently if used in a desert or a forest, and the passage of time and season might impact the outcome.
Psionic Traditions might require self-empowerment like Martial sources, as both are linked to the power of the self, but be tied into power points and other sources to indicate mental fatigue rather than physical.
This would help both thematically and mechanically, allowing each source to have their own "cool things", powers and abilities tied directly to their source and cemented firmly in their tenets, while also allowing rituals to be the "quick and dirty" magic-at-a-cost method of getting things done, more expensive but more open.
Why not just create "Arcane ONLY" rituals?
I personally think that rituals should be divided into types, some should be universal, and Martial Practices shoudl be folded into rituals. But that would take an edition change, so…
Well, they could actually do that already. Martial Practices were unique not only for being divided, but because they changed the component cost to a healing surge system. Likewise, individual power sources could have a distinct brand of ritualism that varies in how it is carried out.
Arcane Evocations could be exotic and esoteric, full of strange requirements, complex configurations, or particular circumstances.
Divine Sacraments could be extremely costly, demanding sacrifice, but allow the burden to be shared amongst multiple individuals, so that a chorus is more powerful than a longer and a priest is aided by his congregation.
Primal Rites could vary depending on location or time; a single ability might work differently if used in a desert or a forest, and the passage of time and season might impact the outcome.
Psionic Traditions might require self-empowerment like Martial sources, as both are linked to the power of the self, but be tied into power points and other sources to indicate mental fatigue rather than physical.
This would help both thematically and mechanically, allowing each source to have their own "cool things", powers and abilities tied directly to their source and cemented firmly in their tenets, while also allowing rituals to be the "quick and dirty" magic-at-a-cost method of getting things done, more expensive but more open.
I like your ideas, but don't use evocations for Arcane. Not only is the term inappropriate for Arcane characters (no matter how used it was by certain blaster Wizards), it has been reappropriated for the type of powers uses by Primal Characters.
Arcane… Formulae, perhaps? Most Arcane classes are scientifice, with the exception of the artsy Bard and the athletic Swordmage.
Arcane… Formulae, perhaps? Most Arcane classes are scientifice, with the exception of the artsy Bard and the athletic Swordmage.
And the bad-boy Sorcerer. And a few warlocks.
So, yeah, the Wizard is pretty scientific.
I still like Formulae, though. And the idea is awesome.
Arcane… Formulae, perhaps? Most Arcane classes are scientifice, with the exception of the artsy Bard and the athletic Swordmage.
And the bad-boy Sorcerer. And a few warlocks.
So, yeah, the Wizard is pretty scientific.
I still like Formulae, though. And the idea is awesome.
Sorcerers are arguably alchemists in the traditional sense – they experiment with powers to discover the truth, rather than using logic.
Warlocks are pretty scholarly. And the formulae to make pacts with various entities would work.
Also, remember, this is rituals, not powers. So without taking a feat, only Wizards, Bards, and Artificers get it.
Arcane… Formulae, perhaps? Most Arcane classes are scientifice, with the exception of the artsy Bard and the athletic Swordmage.
There most definitely is a science to music, even if one has passion and inspiration.
And Swordmages, I see it as a science with a number of schools focused on exact movements and fighting techniques.
Arcane… Formulae, perhaps? Most Arcane classes are scientifice, with the exception of the artsy Bard and the athletic Swordmage.
And the bad-boy Sorcerer. And a few warlocks.
So, yeah, the Wizard is pretty scientific.
I still like Formulae, though. And the idea is awesome.
Try "Craftings" for Rituals of the Arcane Arts.
Arcane… Formulae, perhaps? Most Arcane classes are scientifice, with the exception of the artsy Bard and the athletic Swordmage.
And the bad-boy Sorcerer. And a few warlocks.
So, yeah, the Wizard is pretty scientific.
I still like Formulae, though. And the idea is awesome.
Try "Craftings" for Rituals of the Arcane Arts.
How about just "Crafts?"
Martial Practices
Arcane Crafts
Divine Sacraments
Primal Rites
Psionic Traditions
Shadow Mysteries
Yay! We can bring back Mysteries this way, since the powers are called Hexes.
Arcane… Formulae, perhaps? Most Arcane classes are scientifice, with the exception of the artsy Bard and the athletic Swordmage.
And the bad-boy Sorcerer. And a few warlocks.
So, yeah, the Wizard is pretty scientific.
I still like Formulae, though. And the idea is awesome.
Try "Craftings" for Rituals of the Arcane Arts.
How about just "Crafts?"
Martial Practices
Arcane Crafts
Divine Sacraments
Primal Rites
Psionic Traditions
Shadow Mysteries
Yay! We can bring back Mysteries this way, since the powers are called Hexes.
+1
until now the common Ritual are a big enough shared resource,
so I approve separated ritual for other power sources: Martial Pratices are a good example
this could give a right arcane feeling, and also with a "Arcanist Crafter" feat that gives some bonuses and Ritual in the "arcane only" compart
as for Ritual, generic ones also, could be interesting a special summon Ritual which allows you to summon a monster, maybe choosing type or maybe just some keywords, and have it as your ally
the thing is: the DM must then use the rules for PNGs -> subtract from the XP reward of encounter the XP weight of that monster
that is: it's just an instrument for something you already do by roleplaying (somehow get an ally, and that ally giving benefit cost his XP reward), but consenting some minor benefits, like in healing compart (all monsters has 1 healing sourge and no way to use it free, so a summoned one could have 2 healing sourges usable trough the leader of course) and in choosing compart (summon elemental ally even if you are in a small human village who has nothing to do with elementals: it coulb be funnier also just setting with the ritual, and related Arcane skill check, the level of the monster and some or just one keywords of it, so you can't even say what are really summoning -> fun to role it, even if the Natural keyword should be not awayable for fluff reason "have we summned a human guard? lame...")
and, as previously said, I approve the idea of Arcane Scholls as a way to modify at-will attacks (and something more) like Divine Domains and Martial Styles do
the only doubt is that, because all warlock share Eldrich Ray and have a second build-obligatory at-will, all the "Arcane Schools bonuses" must influence only Eldrich Ray, for Warlocks
The advantage of generic rituals is that they can be used across sources. So Tenser's Floating Disc, for example, fits both Wizards and Psions.
Personally, I think the "essential" line should have been released at the beginning of the edition, and not almost 2 years into it. Have the intrepid minds of the developers already run out of ideas? Stay tuned for the exciting conclusion of 4th edition...
Feats for warlocks to represent different patrons There are at least 9 major devils as many stars and countless fey lords. Even dark pact has more then one gimick.
...Feats for warlocks to represent different patrons There are at least 9 major devils as many stars and countless fey lords. Even dark pact has more then one gimick.
Or at least expand on the background, hooks, and inspirations, for both Pacts and Spell Sources.
What I'm hoping for is a few more paragon paths for the artificer since there really only seems to be the battlesmith engineer right now.
...Feats for warlocks to represent different patrons There are at least 9 major devils as many stars and countless fey lords. Even dark pact has more then one gimick.
Or at least expand on the background, hooks, and inspirations, for both Pacts and Spell Sources.
Pacts have been explored extensively in Dragon and also to a lesser extent in Dungeon. I want to see more on Spell Sources, though.
I also want to see AP2 to clearly define the themes of Arcane Power and how each class is channeling it rather than another source, since this seems to confuse a hell of a lot of players. It makes perfect sense to me, when I use a Magic Academy as a tool to explain it, but it seems to confuse way too many people to not put it in the book. Especially with Chaos Sorcerers vs. Elemental Power.
A minion summoning Necromancer-Build for the Wizard. Minions that are able to contribute in battle!
Please, no! The Wizard already steps on the toes of a possible Illusionist or Beguiller class, of all possible Elemental casters, and of the psion. Let's not make the same true for the Necromancer as well!
I just want to see a decent summoner set of options for the wizard that I can play at level 1. The Astral Wasp sucks as does the Fire Warrior. Until Abyssal Maw at 5th the powers are mediocre at best.
I like tons of the ideas in this thread, good stuff. I'd really enjoy a wizard build that focused on a familiar. Powers and features that buff out a familiar and powers you channel through a familiar. (yes this sounds like another class we know of)
2) Arcane Power 2 to be lined-up as a product.
2) Arcane Power 2 to be lined-up as a product.
Yeah that's a good wish.
Some pact concepts might be interesting in the same vein as the weapon style feats, or maybe use magic academies/mentors/what have you for that.
Arcane Traditions would be best for this, since they could be applied to more arcane classes than just Warlocks.
Though if they do revive the concept I do hope they work on the names.
I want to see some Swordmage dailies that polymorph the Swordmage into monster of some type, with a PP to go along with it.
That'd be awesome. We'd just need to be careful in picking the polymorphs - since that's kind of the warden's schtick. They'd have to be clearly arcane polymorphs that just wouldn't work for a primal character. Although I wouldn't mind a little overlap anyway.
Some pact concepts might be interesting in the same vein as the weapon style feats, or maybe use magic academies/mentors/what have you for that.
Arcane Traditions would be best for this, since they could be applied to more arcane classes than just Warlocks.
Though if they do revive the concept I do hope they work on the names.
This article should explain to everyone confusored what Arcane is about. I can't believe I didn't see this article earlier.
That said, I'd rather have Arcane Schools as the equivalent to Martial Combat Styles and Divine Domains; keep the word "Traditions" for either Primal or Psionic, since it fits those both to the tee.
There might be other interesting ideas for arcane epic destinies geared toward other arcane classes as well (such as an artificer destiny that allows the artificer to become immortal through transforming himself into a construct, similar to the self-forged paragon path).
Though if they do revive the concept I do hope they work on the names.
That article sounds a lot like how superior implements work. You spend a feat to specialize in a particular type of superior implement and get bonuses to accuracy/range/damage/etc. with certain types of spell (e.g. learning to properly use a cinder wand gives you extra damage with your fire spells and extra damage on crits - that's essentially the same as a 'tradition' you pay a feat to access that gives you extra damage with fire spells cast through your wand).
I would love to see an Arcane Power 2. I like martial characters as much as the next guy, and they're much more viable (and fun, comparatively) in this edition (indeed, one of my favorite characters right now is my shadar-kai ranger), but I swear the devs are still paying some sort of penitence to martial characters right now, and other power sources are suffering from lack of support because of it. Especially arcane.
As for what I'd like to see, a fix of implement use in multiclassing for sure.
I like the idea of a fury sorc. Also of familiar-centric builds.
Warlocks should get alternate pact at-wills, for sure. I doubt we'll go without a warlock build, though.
I would also like to see the fluff of arcana elaborated upon, particularly the stars and vestiges of warlocks, and the pervasiveness and ever-present nature of the arcane in the world.
But yeah, we have to get the book first.
Though I'd like to see a "mad scientist" type artificer.
My request, as I have made in the past is simply to put Arcane Power 2 back on the books. I know the "Essential" lines are dominating the latter part of this year, but it would be nice to at least know about when we could expect AP2.
Ooh...I like that mad scientist build idea...that's good.
Hmm...and I've got a house-rule going for sorcerers that they basically get ki foci as an optional implement.
Warlock- I agree with everyone here there are more then enough pacts to sift through. What I would like are two things first some more non-pact alternatives to eldritch blast, second pact-based alternatives to the current pact powers that uses the secondary ability scores. For instance an a star-pact at will that uses either intelligence or charisma and a fey-pact that uses intelligence or con. Oh and more powers whose beneift depends on pact.
Wizards- more stat debuff powers and less direct damage powers plain and simple. I do like the idea of the arcane schools coming in as feats.
Swordmages- More area/blast and ranged powers.
Other then that what I really want to see are more epic destinies for each of the arcane classes. Since I love warlocks I would love to see epic destinies that require a certain pact or maybe even more then one to encourage the use of the two pact feat.
Since it seems that Ki Foci are the new thing to throw out there, I think some of the Arcane classes should get Ki Focus as an option for a new build.
The problem here is that, because of Arcane Implement Proficiency, if you give a new implement to one arcane class, you're giving access to that implement to all arcane classes. That makes balance more difficult.
Anyway, the only arcane class I can see thematically fitting use of a ki focus is the sorcerer.
I'd also like to see a paragon path or something for summonner wizards as a monster maker. Someone who experiments in making strange new forms of life and can summon their "pets" from their cages to present.
I want to see a Feat like "Weapon Implement User" so you can use a weapon as an implement for your powers and make basic attacks with your main stat. Like Arcane implement + Melee Training in one. I don't see any logic that classes based on stats than aren't STR that are good with swords or other weapons can't hit with it basic attacks, when near all martial classes can.
I want to see a Feat like "Weapon Implement User" so you can use a weapon as an implement for your powers and make basic attacks with your main stat. Like Arcane implement + Melee Training in one. I don't see any logic that classes based on stats than aren't STR that are good with swords or other weapons can't hit with it basic attacks, when near all martial classes can.
Sooo... Swordmage?
Intelligent Blademaster, FTW
Anyway, I'd rather they just release more powers that can be used as MBA's, rather than charging a feat tax to use basic attacks.
I want to see a Feat like "Weapon Implement User" so you can use a weapon as an implement for your powers and make basic attacks with your main stat. Like Arcane implement + Melee Training in one. I don't see any logic that classes based on stats than aren't STR that are good with swords or other weapons can't hit with it basic attacks, when near all martial classes can.
Sooo... Swordmage?
Intelligent Blademaster, FTW
Anyway, I'd rather they just release more powers that can be used as MBA's, rather than charging a feat tax to use basic attacks.
Another feat we should have for free, i dont see any logic that a swordmage dont know how to do OAs so enemies just run around him without any problem, but a warlord can do OAs easy, the swordmage is a specialist of the sword.
I have no ideas for the rest of the classes.
Maybe a construct centric Artificer
erm..
Oh, and I'd love a new Bard build with Dexterity as its secondary attribute as well.
More Melee Weapon powers for Valorous Bards. LOTS more Melee Weapon powers for Valorous Bards.
Oh, and I'd love a new Bard build with Dexterity as its secondary attribute as well.
I disagree. I'd rather have not MORE melee weapon powers, but rather MORE melee weapon powers which aren't clearly inferior to the implement powers. Also, more healing options would be nice (though you can just MC into every other leader class if you really want that).
I disagree. I'd rather have not MORE melee weapon powers, but rather MORE melee weapon powers which aren't clearly inferior to the implement powers.
Well, I didn't feel the need to specify that, since I think that's a given.
But yes, I would love to have more Melee Weapon powers that are also at least as good as the Implement ones! Clerics can be more sub-controller than Bard. Bard are more Warlock-y controller than Wizard-y controller.
- A bard build that uses Dexterity as its secondary ability and is themed more toward dance than song, with a hefty side-order of controller.
- Powers for ensnaring swordmages that use Wisdom rather than Constitution for rider effects (IMO, Wisdom should have been the secondary ability for ensnaring swordmages all along).
- Alternate at-wills for each warlock pact, including a Charisma-based one for starlocks.
- A paragon path for starlocks that doesn't use Charisma at all. Preferably a thoroughly Cthulhu/Far Realm/Cosmic Horror themed one.
- More wizard encounter powers that give bonuses based on your implement mastery, especially for the newer implement masteries.
- Wizard illusion powers that actually use your Charisma score for rider effects.
- An illusionist wizard paragon path that makes good use of Charisma.
- A greater variety of superior implements, including superior musical instruments for bards.
- Damage-boosting feats for pure implement users that make them competitive (in terms of pure damage) with weaplement users. An update of the existing feats (Burning Blizzard, Dark Fury, Raging Storm, etc.) would probably do. Either make them untyped rather than feat bonuses, or remove the silly ability score requirements, or increase the bonuses, or some combination of the three.
- Paragon paths and/or feats that focus on combining the arcane with other power sources, to emphasise the idea that the arcane is the transcendent power source (akin to the Aether or Quintessence) that underlies all of reality, and that it overlaps with other power sources. The Avernian Knight in MP2 is a good example of what I mean (Baator's arts of war combine the martial with the arcane), as is the Horizon Walker from MP1 (a ranger who has wandered so far and for so long that she's learned more about the planes than most wizards), but many other archetypes could be covered. A 'warrior-scholar' of Ioun (avenger/swordmage?) who seeks knowledge of all kinds would be cool. As would a paragon path for paladin/sorcerers or paladin/bards of Corellon who combine the art of war and the art of magic with worship of the god of all arts.
Assuming that they do make such a book, I would just like to see some good feats. Is it just me, or do Wizards not have enough good feats in Paragon and Epic? I don't know about other classes, but it does stand to reason that the Artificer needs more attention in general.
...and I still don't see Arcane Power 2 in the lineup anywhere....
Assuming that they do make such a book, I would just like to see some good feats. Is it just me, or do Wizards not have enough good feats in Paragon and Epic? I don't know about other classes, but it does stand to reason that the Artificer needs more attention in general.
There's bound to be one, as you say the Artificer needs attention.
Perhaps there will be Psionic Power first?
...and I still don't see Arcane Power 2 in the lineup anywhere....
Assuming that they do make such a book, I would just like to see some good feats. Is it just me, or do Wizards not have enough good feats in Paragon and Epic? I don't know about other classes, but it does stand to reason that the Artificer needs more attention in general.
There's bound to be one, as you say the Artificer needs attention.
Perhaps there will be Psionic Power first?
Seeing as there's been confirmation on some of the content in Psionic Power, unlike Arcane Power 2, I'd say that's a valid assumption.
However work on the essentials stuff could easily have a delaying effect.
We need at least one & hopefully two new builds for the Artificer. I'd like to see an homonculous companion which could be upscaled over levels - an option of choices at each upgrade.
I'd also like some weapon alternatives for the Swordmage. So they can be used at sanctioned events.
Also some decent epic level options for the other arcane classes which match the Wizards' Archmage.
Racial feats for PH3 and PH4 races as well.
We need at least one & hopefully two new builds for the Artificer.
We already got a new Artificer build(in Dragon) to somewhat make up for the fact that it wasn't in Arcane Power, so I don't think the Artificer is in need for additional builds any more than the other arcane classes atm.
We need at least one & hopefully two new builds for the Artificer.
We already got a new Artificer build(in Dragon) to somewhat make up for the fact that it wasn't in Arcane Power, so I don't think the Artificer is in need for additional builds any more than the other arcane classes atm.
Technically that leaves the artificer at 3 builds while 4 is standard. Excepting the swordmage (also 3) and wizard (6).
Edit: just realized KoboldAvenger suggested this already
Possible negative effects are powers that damage or give a negative condition to the artificer when they miss, or powers with some other danger like the existing flameheart defender summon that explodes when it dies. Another good example would be the wizard firescythe power from dragon 383 that could hit allies but they have a chance to drop prone to avoid it.
Constitution would be a good secondary stat for this so the artificer could take the extra self punishment.
Edit: I went through and what was previously suggested for artificer and this is what I see:
2 requests for a mad scientist artificer (counting this one)
2 requests for a more mechanical less of an enchanter artificer (tinker was not good enough)
1 request for a defender leaning artificer str based self buffing
1 request for a defender leaning con based shielding magic artificer
1 request for a striker leaning dex secondary artificer
There were also several who just said anything more for artificers.
For Wizards, I want to see them strengthen the wand implement, perhaps with a feat that allows them to reroll for each target in a blast or burst. Another option would be to emphasize the wand's precision by giving it powers that cripple single targets with status effects, focusing on that area more than area-of-effect powers. These powers should be keyed off of Dexterity, to improve that particular matchup. Also, there should be more Charisma-keyed illusion and charm powers.
Like many here, I would be intrigued by a dance-based, Dexterity-keyed bard build. Perhaps something that leads from the front, providing bonuses in addition to moving around really well.
I don't have an opinion on sorcerers, other than that they desperately need more builds than just Charisma-Strength and Charisma-Dexterity.
As for Warlocks, a primordial pact would be interesting; it could focus on different elements, such as fire, ice, or lightning.
Omnirahk: My second idea had called for single-target effects only, but your suggestion enables it to fulfill the area-of-effect aspect of controllers. Great idea.
Thanks. I like the idea too. And credit where it's due: you did inspire me.
I'd like to see an AOE bard, even if it's a melee one, a dancing Bard could do that.
I'd really like to see more feat support for damage types other than cold.
You won't see any changes to Wand of Accuracy in Arcane Power 2, you might see more spell and feat support for it though, like we did in Arcane Power. However you might see an alternative Wand mastery feat, similar to how there's an alternative for Tombs and Orbs.
I'd like to see an AOE bard, even if it's a melee one, a dancing Bard could do that.
I'd really like to see more feat support for damage types other than cold.
Well, I wasn't calling for a change to Wand of Accuracy. I was suggesting what you could do for powers that attach special riders to Wand of Accuracy. I know the original Arcane Power had a few powers with extra effects if you had the right sort of implement mastery.
Personally I like the theme of the power but would never select it since the option is either to use it on a character it is unlikely to effect at all or use it on a character who gets at least a full round of full effectiveness before anything happens to them at all.
Similarly Thief of Five fates is thematically nice but a null pick as it would just lead to drawing out the fight. Low damage attacks from a striker are ok if they have interesting side effects but no damage attacks from a striker just lead to annoying the rest of the party who are relying on you to finish the fight.
Also is it just me or does dragon magazine seem to have practically ignored fey pact. I may have missed something but all the class act warlock articles seem to be for other pacts.
More damage-type themed sorcerer builds, particularly a pyroblaster. Yeah, I know they just did a fire article for Wizards, but really, Sorcerers should be more for burning the crap out of stuff,I think.
Ooops, you said sorcerer. I haven't read the article yet, but I always want more fire blasting, and lightning flinging powers for my wizard.
Though if they went for Storms, they may as well do Fire (or maybe Magma seeing as Storms covers two damage types).
I hope they do a spider sorc, one with poison and necrotic powers. Because Drow should have a Sorc that suits them.
I'm hopefully for more force powers, probably for the Wizard though.
Surely a Dragon Sorc covers Pyroblasting Sorc?
Though if they went for Storms, they may as well do Fire (or maybe Magma seeing as Storms covers two damage types).
I hope they do a spider sorc, one with poison and necrotic powers. Because Drow should have a Sorc that suits them.
I'm hopefully for more force powers, probably for the Wizard though.
Drow get Dark Pact warlock for that. I mean, the whole idea is that you have a pact with some dark, malicious entity that does not play well with society. And many powers are poison and necrotic. I know of at least one that involves a bunch of spider eggs hatching in their body and devouring them alive. Honestly, spider powers better suit a warlock than a sorcerer anyway, in my opinion.
And I agree that the current sorcerer themes don't fit drow very well, even though they are a great match by pure mechanics.
It would work well as a more generic necromancy-themed sorcerer. Spiders could be just one aspect.
And I agree that the current sorcerer themes don't fit drow very well, even though they are a great match by pure mechanics.
Which is why I suggested a new power that does. Spider Power makes a lot of sense. Shadow Power maybe... Theres a fear in Arcane Power for Drow that boosts Necrotic and Poison damage for Drow Sorcs - but no real Power option that supports that choice.
Anyway,
I'd love to see a ranged At-will for the Swordmage, possibly one where they throw their weapon and apply the aegis to the target.
Flumph Familiars
I just thought of a brilliant idea that should be in Arcane Power 2...
Flumph Familiars
Passive benefit of feather fall?
Just my 2 cents.
Arcane Desperation
Human, any arcane class
Increases damage done by At-Will attack powers by 1 die (ie, d6 becomes d8) when all encounter AND daily attack powers are expended.
Special: This feat will combine with Arcane Reserves feat, but not until the above requirements are met (ie, if you have expended your daily powers, but have recharged your encounter powers by a short rest, this feat will NOT be active until you have expended your last encounter power).
It would be really useful where you think you have the upper hand, and suddenly you see some high-level monster that you never thought you'd see at, say, fifth level (such as Orcus). It would let you blast through the wall of bugbears that stand between you and the exit.
Of course, I wouldn't expect any DM to actually throw Orcus at his party of players, but you never know.
It would also be useful for marathon campaigns, where no extended rests are allowed.
A melee Sorc PP would be nice too.
An AOE for the Bard and more AOE powers for the bard would be great too.
Hybrid Talent Option:
Spellbook
This option works exactly as is described in Player's Handbook page 158. You also gain gain Implement Mastery, but ONLY for either the Tome of Binding Option or the Tome of Readiness option; you do NOT gain Implement Mastery for any other Implement, though this does not prevent you from taking the Second Implement Mastery feat at the Paragon Level (Player's Handbook, page 205).
Of course, this would necessitate the current Hybrid Talent option in PHB3 to be slightly altered:
Hybrid Talent Option:
Arcane Implement Mastery
This class feature functions exactly as the wizard class feature (Player's Handbood, page 157), EXCEPT that you can only choose an implement that is not a tome; the Tome of Binding and the Tome of Readiness are unavailable to you.
My reasoning? If you don't have access to a spellbook, what good will it do you to have a tome? Yes, you've got your books at home where you can study and retrain your powers, but if you can't take a spellbook along, how could you make use of a Tome of Binding, or a Tome of Readiness?
I just thought of a brilliant idea that should be in Arcane Power 2...
Flumph Familiars
FWIW, our gaming group has 5 people, all making arcanists, waiting for this to happen...
Here's to crossing fingers (and everything else), hoping that this happens!
Warlock - Elemental Pact
This pact would be with some member or agent of the Elemental Chaos, such as a djinn or efreet. It would allow you to gain pact boons that were in line with the particular elemental, for example:
Fire Bullet
Warlock*Elemental Pact*Fire
Standard Action
Ranged*Burst 1 within 10 squares
Target Each target in area
Attack Constitution/Charisma v. Reflex
Hit 1d6 + Constitution OR Charisma modifier fire damage
*****
You would also gain bonuses to attack and/or damage when using powers that were in line with the elemental's sphere of power.
You make a pact with a dragon to gain arcane power, in exchange for something you must do later. Here's an example of a draconic pact boon.
Dragon Blast
Warlock*Draconic Pact*Various
Standard Action
Close blast 3
Target All creatures in blast area
Acid, Cold, Fire, Force, Lightning, Poison, or Thunder
Attack Constitution OR Charisma v. Reflex
Hit 1d6 + Constitution OR Charisma modifier damage
Special Choose one of the above listed effects for the type of damage you inflict; this choice remains the same throughout the life of your character or your dragon patron. If your dragon patron dies, the DM has the discretion to decide if you continue to have the power, or lose it until you gain another dragon patron. Your power will match your patron's power.
For elemental, I could see something like this,
Chaos Pulse
You summon up the raw elements to strike
At-will Arcane, implement, varies
Standard Action Ranged 10
Attack: Constitution vs. Reflex
Hit: 1d10 + Constitution modifier damage of one of the following types; acid, cold, fire, lightning, or thunder. If you reduce a nonminion enemy to 0 hit points with this attack, your Primordial shroud increases by 1 size.
Primordial Shroud
You channel the raw power of your Elemental masters to surround you in chaotic power. When you reduce an enemy to 0 hit points, you may spend a free action to generate an aura 1. Creatures which start or end their turn in this aura take acid, cold, fire, lightning, or thunder damage (your choice) equal to your Charisma modifier. The aura lasts until the end of your next turn, or until you suppress it as a free action.
Me likee much better!Glad I could inspire someone to improve my idea.
why does anyone want necromancer build for sorcerers? warlocks already cover that.
but I agree, artificers and bards needs more love.
not wizards though, they're fine, they should stay the same.
I do agree with the Death Pact Warlock thing though. can't see how they would improve on the sorcerer though.
Hey, variety is the spice of life. As someone who loves Thai food, I don't see any problem with that.
that is what I'm defending. There is variety in that the sorcerer gets elemental and warlocks get darker more twisted stuff
Even more cool would be a Cleric/Warlock combination, either as a hybrid or a multi-class, one way or another.