Help with Character planning and optimization and tactics?

Voren · 03-22-2011, 10:07 PM

If you want a couple of specifics to start with, here are some straightforward skill/technique/perk combos. They should at least give you a sense of how you can put things together.

Combat Reflexes and HPT really are key advantages for serious fighters, as you will learn after your first combat.

Top up Counterattack: Broadsword for good value for your points, IMO. Easy to know when to use, anyways -- every time you parry!

The shield wall training perk is stylistically appropriate, and even if you're not in a big battle it lets you use a large shield without penalty.

In battle, first use defensive attack or all out defense to get a parry bonus; use a large shield for optimum DB. Enemy attacks, you parry (and retreat if needed), on your next turn you counterattack and effectively get a 'free' deceptive attack from your counterattack technique. Since this can stack with other bonuses and maneuvers, combine it with some nasty targeted attack if you have the points to spend, for added fun.

While you're at it, grab 'Shoves and Tackles' from Perks, for when you get sick of the defend-counterattack strategy and just want to wallop someone with your large shield.

Regarding your spear: The Long Spear from Basic Set can be used one-handed at reach 2,3*, requiring a ready maneuver to switch reaches. Grab the Reach Mastery perk (from Perks) and use the wait strategy with your spear: you wait, enemy takes a step in to attack you, you trigger an attack and a step back or retreat. Reach mastery isn't required to do this, but it makes the strategy a bit easier. If your enemy manages to close the range, drop the spear (free action), fast-draw your sword (free action), and go to town as already mentioned.

These tactics do not work in all situations and do not necessarily fit a 'Rawr, I'm a crazy Viking' style, however. And be aware of your skill levels before you try anything rash. The probability table on B171 is your friend.

03-22-2011, 10:07 PM	#11
Voren Join Date: Jul 2008 Location: Ontario, Canada	Re: Help with Character planning and optimization and tactics? If you want a couple of specifics to start with, here are some straightforward skill/technique/perk combos. They should at least give you a sense of how you can put things together. Combat Reflexes and HPT really are key advantages for serious fighters, as you will learn after your first combat. Top up Counterattack: Broadsword for good value for your points, IMO. Easy to know when to use, anyways -- every time you parry! The shield wall training perk is stylistically appropriate, and even if you're not in a big battle it lets you use a large shield without penalty. In battle, first use defensive attack or all out defense to get a parry bonus; use a large shield for optimum DB. Enemy attacks, you parry (and retreat if needed), on your next turn you counterattack and effectively get a 'free' deceptive attack from your counterattack technique. Since this can stack with other bonuses and maneuvers, combine it with some nasty targeted attack if you have the points to spend, for added fun. While you're at it, grab 'Shoves and Tackles' from Perks, for when you get sick of the defend-counterattack strategy and just want to wallop someone with your large shield. Regarding your spear: The Long Spear from Basic Set can be used one-handed at reach 2,3, requiring a ready maneuver to switch reaches. Grab the Reach Mastery perk (from Perks) and use the wait strategy with your spear: you wait, enemy takes a step in to attack you, you trigger an attack and a step back or retreat. Reach mastery isn't required to do this, but it makes the strategy a bit easier. If your enemy manages to close the range, drop the spear (free action), fast-draw your sword (free action), and go to town as already mentioned. These tactics do not work in all situations and do not necessarily fit a 'Rawr, I'm a crazy Viking' style, however. And be aware of your skill levels before you try anything rash. The probability table on B171 is your friend. __________________ GM, to player: "Yes, acid can* look like water."