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| #1LawolfAug 15, 2014 14:52:40 |
This is my current take on the 3e Tome of Battle style martial adepts, rolled up into a single class and built according to the 5e framework. I have changed the mechanics significantly from 3e, to simplify and streamline maneuver use. I think the martial adepts work well combined into a single class given 5e's goal of reducing class bloat.
I chose the name swordsage, as I felt that was the most distinctive name of the three martial adepts. It conveys a warrior who has vast knowledge pertaining to battle. Kensei is another fitting name, but has too much of an overtly asian influence.
I hope to eventually have maneuvers and subclasses for all 9 disciplines. For now, I have completed maneuvers from the Diamond Mind, Iron Heart, Stone Dragon, Tiger Claw, and White Raven disciplines. I have also created 3 subclass options for the Diamond Mind, Iron Heart, and Stone Dragon disciplines.
I have done a fairly exhaustive DPR analysis for this class compared to both the 5e Fighter and Barbarian. While the swordsage does comprable damage to both of those classes, it does lag behind them somewhat in most situations. I believe that this is made up for through increased options and utility in combat. Bonus! The class can actually keep pace while dual wielding.
While the swordsage has less AC than the fighter, less resistance than the barbarian, and lacks self healing such as second wind, it does possess a number of defensively oriented maneuvers and stances that should help mitigate these weaknesses. The fighter and barbarian will always be more resilient, but the swordsage will be better at making saving throws or resisting magical effects.
I'm looking for feedback on ways to improve and balance this class, so let me know your thoughts, balance issues, concerns, and questions. Thanks! |