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The unmentioned guides - Vampires Handbooks
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<blockquote data-quote="MonkLover" data-source="post: 6741649" data-attributes="member: 82105"><p>the following guide was more of a discussion.</p><p></p><p></p><p><strong>Originally posted by tsuyoshikentsu:</strong></p><p></p><p>The Vampire Handbook</p><p>I Don't Always Play Vampires</p><p> <img src="http://images.community.wizards.com/community.wizards.com/user/wolead/9142d3cf82dbd7dd328c999a67824940.jpg?v=58680" alt="" class="fr-fic fr-dii fr-draggable " style="" /></p><p>But when I do, I prefer Hybrid.</p><p>Stay thirsty, my friends.</p><p>Seriously, that's it. Vampire is a class mechanically incapable of being an optimized Striker, and in many cases barely capable of being a Striker at all. It really doesn't help that every single significant class feature is contained in the Hybrid Vampire. Heck, many of the relevant features are in the multiclass feat! So, if you want to play an optimized Vampire... play something else, multiclass or Hybrid, and look up that class's handbook.</p><p></p><p>In other words, if your Vampire is an optimized Vampire... </p><p></p><p><img src="http://img8.imageshack.us/img8/4632/hybridvamp.png" alt="" class="fr-fic fr-dii fr-draggable " style="" /></p><p><span style="color: #ff0000">...He's Got A Little Hybrid In Him.</span></p><p></p><p><strong>Originally posted by tsuyoshikentsu:</strong></p><p></p><p><span style="color: #ff0000">Warning!</span></p><p><img src="http://www.wizards.com/dnd/images/ex_20110311.jpg" alt="" class="fr-fic fr-dii fr-draggable " style="" /></p><p>This handbook contains copious amounts of Iconic Vampire. Women with heart conditions are advised not to look directly at Iconic Vampire. This also applies to women without heart conditions. He's very pretty - see? See how pretty he is? He's very pretty! I'd like to run my fingers through his hair, and I'm just a voice! </p><p></p><p><strong>Originally posted by tsuyoshikentsu:</strong></p><p></p><p><span style="color: #ff0000">Hello, gamers.</span></p><p><img src="http://www.wizards.com/dnd/images/ex_20110311.jpg" alt="" class="fr-fic fr-dii fr-draggable " style="" /></p><p>Look at your striker, now back to me, now back at your striker, now back to me. Sadly, he isn’t me, but if he stopped killing things with weapons and switched to Vampire, he could strike like he’s me. Look down, back up, where are you? You’re on a boat with the striker your striker could strike like. What’s in your hand, back at me. I have it, it’s an oyster with two items that do that thing you love. Look again, the items are now astral diamonds. Anything is possible when your man strikes like a Vampire and not a normal striker. I’m on a horse.</p><p></p><p><strong>Originally posted by tsuyoshikentsu:</strong></p><p></p><p>You ever notice how everything you say is creepier when you add "ladies" to the end?</p><p>Well, hello! I'm the Vampire, the new striker from Heroes of Shadow!</p><p><img src="http://www.wizards.com/dnd/images/ex_20110311.jpg" alt="" class="fr-fic fr-dii fr-draggable " style="" /></p><p></p><p><span style="color: #ff0000">...Ladies.</span></p><p></p><p><strong>Originally posted by tsuyoshikentsu:</strong></p><p></p><p>He does less damage than an O-Sassin with no feats and a primary dump stat.</p><p></p><p>Small children cry when he shows up at their LFR tables.</p><p></p><p>He once dealt a creature its bloodied value in damage, then went back to playing his class.</p><p></p><p>He is...</p><p></p><p><img src="http://images.community.wizards.com/community.wizards.com/user/wolead/9142d3cf82dbd7dd328c999a67824940.jpg?v=58680" alt="" class="fr-fic fr-dii fr-draggable " style="" /></p><p>...the Iconic Vampire.</p><p></p><p><strong>Originally posted by tsuyoshikentsu:</strong></p><p></p><p>The Iconic Vampire</p><p>On One-Shotting Encounters</p><p><img src="http://images.community.wizards.com/community.wizards.com/user/wolead/9142d3cf82dbd7dd328c999a67824940.jpg?v=58680" alt="" class="fr-fic fr-dii fr-draggable " style="" /></p><p>"I assure you: most women would not consider finishing in six seconds a virtue."</p><p></p><p></p><p><strong>Originally posted by tsuyoshikentsu:</strong></p><p></p><p>The Iconic Vampire</p><p>On the Two-Surge System</p><p><img src="http://images.community.wizards.com/community.wizards.com/user/wolead/9142d3cf82dbd7dd328c999a67824940.jpg?v=58680" alt="" class="fr-fic fr-dii fr-draggable " style="" /></p><p>"The hot Tiefling Fighter's is the one you want to spend."</p><p></p><p><strong>Originally posted by tsuyoshikentsu:</strong></p><p></p><p>The Iconic Vampire</p><p>On Life</p><p><img src="http://images.community.wizards.com/community.wizards.com/user/wolead/9142d3cf82dbd7dd328c999a67824940.jpg?v=58680" alt="" class="fr-fic fr-dii fr-draggable " style="" /></p><p>"It's never too early to start beefing up your obituary."</p><p></p><p></p><p><strong>Originally posted by tsuyoshikentsu:</strong></p><p></p><p>The Iconic Vampire</p><p>On Party Roles</p><p><img src="http://images.community.wizards.com/community.wizards.com/user/wolead/9142d3cf82dbd7dd328c999a67824940.jpg?v=58680" alt="" class="fr-fic fr-dii fr-draggable " style="" /></p><p>"Find out what it is in the game that you do not do well, and then don't do that thing."</p><p></p><p></p><p><strong>Originally posted by tsuyoshikentsu:</strong></p><p></p><p>The Iconic Vampire</p><p>On Daily Power Selection</p><p><img src="http://images.community.wizards.com/community.wizards.com/user/wolead/9142d3cf82dbd7dd328c999a67824940.jpg?v=58680" alt="" class="fr-fic fr-dii fr-draggable " style="" /></p><p>"The right look should suffice."</p><p><img src="http://img863.imageshack.us/img863/493/vampeyes.png" alt="" class="fr-fic fr-dii fr-draggable " style="" /></p><p></p><p></p><p><strong>Originally posted by tsuyoshikentsu:</strong></p><p></p><p>That should be all, but one more for good luck. Feel free to post.</p><p></p><p><strong>Originally posted by mc-drowbane:</strong></p><p></p><p>LMAO - I totally approve of this.</p><p></p><p>I'll delete this post if need be. Carry on. </p><p></p><p><strong>Originally posted by LlamasNotsheep:</strong></p><p></p><p>Best guide ever. I'm impressed with how quickly you finished it.</p><p></p><p>You're not actually thinking of changing it, right? Because it's perfect right now. </p><p></p><p><strong>Originally posted by mc-drowbane:</strong></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p>Thread win. </p><p></p><p></p><p><strong>Originally posted by twisted9:</strong></p><p></p><p>This is awesome. Looking forward to it.</p><p></p><p><strong>Originally posted by Cyvaris:</strong></p><p></p><p>Those first two posts are just awesome. You really need to archive them/keep them in. Both had me in tears, probably a bad thing when I am in class.</p><p></p><p>Really a great handbook, I think it covers all the aspects and complexities of the Vampire class.</p><p></p><p><strong>Originally posted by Damon_Tor:</strong></p><p></p><p>So are all the vampire powers Gold? You literally <em>have</em> to take them, you don't get any more "must take" than that.</p><p></p><p>Not really sure why you needed to reserve so many spaces.</p><p></p><p>Racially, any race that doesn't have both Dex and Cha is red: a vampire needs both reasonably high in order to his with the powers that key off of cha (and it's not like be can choose <em>not</em> to take those powers)</p><p></p><p>a guide to vampires will consist of a discussion about races (ie, pick a dex/cha race, all others are traps) ability scores (ie, pick 18 dex, 14 cha, and 11 con, all others are traps) and the section on powers which will have exactly two entries, level 2 and level 22, with two powers each.</p><p></p><p>Can't poach powers in any meaningful way (and even if you do, your striker feature won't work with them) and you'll be at a loss for paragon paths for a similar reason.</p><p></p><p>The only section which will see anything like an actual guide will be on feats, which will be a standard mix of basic feat taxes (unarmored agility, improved defenses, expertise... is there a "focus" feat available?) specific vampire feat taxes (durable, maybe others) The items section is likely to be interesting because it will include items wich cost healing surges to use.</p><p></p><p><strong>Originally posted by sirrus21:</strong></p><p></p><p>It...it's beautiful. If the guide were nothing but Iconic Vampire, I would be ecstatic to read it for vampire-building advice. </p><p></p><p>Though in seriousness, I would have to agree with Damon_Tor for the most part. With fixed powers mostly negating power choice and the split attack stats (some powers rely on Dex, others on Cha) making any race that isn't Dex/Cha just not optimal, it's hard to pick the better choice...because there really isn't a choice. Luckily there's a lot of races with Dex/Cha though. Feats, items, and niche builds are pretty much everything here.</p><p></p><p>Though I do intend to use the Vampire class to build villains. With some DM tweaking, they can be pretty brutal.</p><p></p><p><strong>Originally posted by Armisael:</strong></p><p></p><p>Hahahahaha, amazing! Agree with what others have said here. With the class being on rails as hard as it is, this should totally be a <em>stylish </em>guide. <img src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" class="smilie smilie--sprite smilie--sprite7" alt=":p" title="Stick out tongue :p" loading="lazy" data-shortname=":p" /></p><p></p><p><strong>Originally posted by tsuyoshikentsu:</strong></p><p></p><p>Dude. Wait until the class comes out. You might be surprised.</p><p></p><p>For example, I am already looking into ways to use this with Kulkor, as it gets a Vampire MBA.</p><p></p><p><strong>Originally posted by Suzume_Stjohn:</strong></p><p></p><p>Could also rate the powers on how useful they are for others to steal <img src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" class="smilie smilie--sprite smilie--sprite2" alt=";)" title="Wink ;)" loading="lazy" data-shortname=";)" /> Specially the HE using adept dil. to ghetto MC. The dex based MBA will be big for some builds. The only downside is that it's a implement attack, but eh, we'll see how it goes. <img src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" class="smilie smilie--sprite smilie--sprite2" alt=";)" title="Wink ;)" loading="lazy" data-shortname=";)" /></p><p></p><p><strong>Originally posted by Aegeri:</strong></p><p></p><p>I have never been more keen to read one of the handbooks of this board.</p><p></p><p><strong>Originally posted by CrimsonAssassin:</strong></p><p></p><p>This guide is dripping with win.</p><p></p><p>So I just now read someone saying that the Vampire'll have implement attacks based on CHA? Hmmm...agreed that a DEX/CHA race will be optimal and I can go off some off the top of my head.</p><p></p><p>Halfling (lolsmallvampire)</p><p>Drow (sexy elf vampire)</p><p>Changeling (that shapeshifting effect could come up more often in a campaign if you're caught biting someone)</p><p>Goblin (eww...)</p><p></p><p></p><p><strong>Originally posted by Caeric:</strong></p><p></p><p>Ha. I approve of this guide.</p><p></p><p>But what is there to even say for the Vampire? Your class-based choices are limited to two utility levels. There's only one class paragon path. There's no class feats. Multiclassing for powers will negate your striker damage on those powers. You have to have high Dexterity and high Charisma to make sure all of your powers are useful, and that means that you don't have a lot of wiggle room for ability score spread (or race choice, since those boosts will matter quite a bit).</p><p></p><p>This is going to be one short guide.</p><p></p><p><strong>Originally posted by tsuyoshikentsu:</strong></p><p></p><p>To be honest, that's why I'm comfortable writing it. I'm not that great at optimization outside of skills, so the only thing I feel I could do justice is something like this.</p><p></p><p>Also, doing the handbook lets me pick exactly how much Iconic Vampire will be in it. C'est-a-dire, a lot.</p><p></p><p><strong>Originally posted by Bargle0:</strong></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p>There is nothing short about Iconic Vampire.</p><p></p><p></p><p><strong>Originally posted by Backlash3906:</strong></p><p></p><p>Here's the numbers on those implement attacks. <img src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" class="smilie smilie--sprite smilie--sprite1" alt=":)" title="Smile :)" loading="lazy" data-shortname=":)" /> </p><p></p><p>Dexterity Attacks </p><p>1 Melee-1 vs Fort At-Will </p><p>1 Melee-1 vs Reflex At-Will </p><p>2 Close blast 3 vs Fortitude Daily </p><p>2 Melee-1 vs Reflex Encounter </p><p>1 Close burst 1 vs Reflex Daily </p><p>1 Close blast 5 vs Fortitude Daily </p><p></p><p>Charisma (+2) Attacks </p><p>1 Ranged 5 vs Will At-Will </p><p>1 Ranged 5 vs Will Daily </p><p>1 Close burst 2 vs Will Daily (Beguiler Paragon Path lv20 power) </p><p>And then a reasonably complicated level 20 attack for the Stalker PP. </p><p></p><p>All of these powers are numbered, and some run in sequences of direct replacements of one another. </p><p>Swarm of Shadows (Lv 1) >> Hungry Swarm (Lv 15) >> Consuming Swarm (Lv 29) </p><p>Domineering Gaze (Lv 9) >> Irresistible Gaze (Lv 25) </p><p></p><p>This leads me to believe that further powers for the class will also run in sequences. Similar to the Warpriest and Cavalier/Blackguard domain/virtue/vice sequences.</p><p></p><p><strong>Originally posted by Undrhil:</strong></p><p></p><p>Actually, the Races section of the Vampire class description talks about Halfling Vampires. Personally, I'm thinking about making a Shade Vampire, just because that would be awesome. <img src="http://community.wizards.com/sites/all/modules/custom/forest_site/smileys/wizards/smile.gif" alt="" class="fr-fic fr-dii fr-draggable " style="" /></p><p></p><p>I wish the Vampire class had a MC feat for it, but since it's written Essentials-style, there is no MC feat. <img src="http://community.wizards.com/sites/all/modules/custom/forest_site/smileys/wizards/sad.gif" alt="" class="fr-fic fr-dii fr-draggable " style="" /> I guess half-elves in LFR get the best of this since they can retrain their racial power pick and get a Vampire at-will and then take Adept Dilletante to be multiclassed into it. Not sure if PMCing will be a viable option, but I guess a half-elf playing a CHA primary class could make off with the CHA+2 Vampire at-will and have it as an actual at-will power at paragon...</p><p></p><p><strong>Originally posted by Aegeri:</strong></p><p></p><p>Shade vampire? You're being ironic yes?</p><p></p><p></p><p><strong>Originally posted by Rokku:</strong></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p>Healing surges are for fools. Fools and <em>liberals.</em></p><p></p><p></p><p><strong>Originally posted by mellored:</strong></p><p></p><p>Looks like a job for revenant (warforged). Might not be iconic, but minor action surgless heal will go a long way, and allow you to use your surges for damage instead of healing.</p><p></p><p><strong>Originally posted by Undrhil:</strong></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p>What's wrong with a Shade Vampire? I happen to like the fact that I can use my allies as shiel- --- ... err, cover. <img src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" class="smilie smilie--sprite smilie--sprite2" alt=";)" title="Wink ;)" loading="lazy" data-shortname=";)" /> And then, after the combat, they let me heal. It's a win-win. .... for me. <img src="http://community.wizards.com/sites/all/modules/custom/forest_site/smileys/wizards/smile.gif" alt="" class="fr-fic fr-dii fr-draggable " style="" /></p><p></p><p><strong>Originally posted by raleel:</strong></p><p></p><p>I've not laughed so hard at a thread on this board ever.</p><p></p><p><strong>Originally posted by MalakLightfoot:</strong></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p>My group has been dominating during this season of Encounters, so I was planning on making a Shade Vampire for next reason to up the challenge on myself a little more. <img src="http://community.wizards.com/sites/all/modules/custom/forest_site/smileys/wizards/smile.gif" alt="" class="fr-fic fr-dii fr-draggable " style="" /></p><p></p><p></p><p><strong>Originally posted by Armisael:</strong></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p>Make him attack with his eyes closed too. Better go hardcore to up the ante. <img src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" class="smilie smilie--sprite smilie--sprite7" alt=":p" title="Stick out tongue :p" loading="lazy" data-shortname=":p" /></p><p></p><p></p><p><strong>Originally posted by Zathris:</strong></p><p></p><p style="text-align: center"><strong><span style="color: #ff0000">[SIZE=large] [/SIZE]</span>[SIZE=large] [/SIZE]</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center"></p> <p style="text-align: center"><span style="font-size: 15px"><strong><span style="color: #ff0000">[SIZE=small][SIZE=large]OBEY</span></strong></span><strong><span style="color: #ff0000">[/SIZE]</span>[SIZE=large][SIZE=small][SIZE=large]<strong> </strong>[/SIZE][/SIZE][/SIZE]</strong>[/size]</p> <p style="text-align: center"></p> <p style="text-align: center"></p> <p style="text-align: center"></p> <p style="text-align: center"><span style="font-size: 15px"><strong>[SIZE=large][SIZE=large]<strong><img src="http://www.wizards.com/dnd/images/ex_20110311.jpg" alt="" class="fr-fic fr-dii fr-draggable " style="" /></strong></strong></span><strong>[/SIZE]</strong>[/size]</p> <p style="text-align: center"></p> <p style="text-align: center"><span style="font-size: 15px"><strong>[SIZE=large][SIZE=large]<strong>MY THIRST</strong></strong></span><strong><strong> </strong>[/SIZE]</strong>[/size]</p><p></p><p></p><p><strong>Originally posted by Mand12:</strong></p><p></p><p><strong><em>HALFLING VAMPIRE</em></strong></p><p></p><p>Bringing new meaning to the term "ankle biter" since 2011!</p><p></p><p></p><p><strong>Originally posted by meleeeci:</strong></p><p></p><p>I think you should put the "<u><em>reserving for future disagreement</em></u>" feat in <span style="color: #00ffff">light blue</span>. It's useful for almost every race.</p><p></p><p><strong>Originally posted by Caeric:</strong></p><p></p><p></p><p>Now hold on there! [Insert feat here] isn't that good for [insert race, class, paragon path, feat, or power here], and that's kind of a big deal. I wouldn't rate [insert feat here] higher than <span style="color: #0000ff"><strong>blue</strong></span>, especially if you aren't using [insert feat or power here].</p><p></p><p>[Insert completely different feat here] should definately be <span style="color: #ff0000"><strong>red</strong></span>, I think. No synergy at all.</p><p></p><p></p><p><strong>Originally posted by XunValDorl_of_H...:</strong></p><p></p><p>I was thinking about a Blood Red Shardmind Vampire, but since they don't need to eat or drink then I guess the dependency on blood is out.</p><p></p><p><strong>Originally posted by Reg06:</strong></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p>*cough* <a href="http://www.somethingawful.com/d/movie-reviews/ankle-biters.php" target="_blank">2002</a> *cough* </p><p></p><p></p><p><strong>Originally posted by tsuyoshikentsu:</strong></p><p></p><p><span style="color: #ff0000">Warning!</span></p><p><img src="http://www.wizards.com/dnd/images/ex_20110311.jpg" alt="" class="fr-fic fr-dii fr-draggable " style="" /></p><p>This handbook contains copious amounts of Iconic Vampire. Women with heart conditions are advised not to look directly at Iconic Vampire. This also applies to women without heart conditions. He's very pretty - see? See how pretty he is? He's very pretty! I'd like to run my fingers through his hair, and I'm just a voice! </p><p></p><p></p><p><strong>Originally posted by tsuyoshikentsu:</strong></p><p></p><p><span style="color: #ff0000">Hello, gamers.</span></p><p><img src="http://www.wizards.com/dnd/images/ex_20110311.jpg" alt="" class="fr-fic fr-dii fr-draggable " style="" /></p><p>Look at your striker, now back to me, now back at your striker, now back to me. Sadly, he isn’t me, but if he stopped killing things with weapons and switched to Vampire, he could strike like he’s me. Look down, back up, where are you? You’re on a boat with the striker your striker could strike like. What’s in your hand, back at me. I have it, it’s an oyster with two items that do that thing you love. Look again, the items are now astral diamonds. Anything is possible when your man strikes like a Vampire and not a normal striker. I’m on a horse.</p><p></p><p></p><p><strong>Originally posted by tsuyoshikentsu:</strong></p><p></p><p>You ever notice how everything you say is creepier when you add "ladies" to the end?</p><p>Well, hello! I'm the Vampire, the new striker from Heroes of Shadow!</p><p><img src="http://www.wizards.com/dnd/images/ex_20110311.jpg" alt="" class="fr-fic fr-dii fr-draggable " style="" /></p><p></p><p><span style="color: #ff0000">...Ladies.</span></p><p></p><p></p><p><strong>Originally posted by tsuyoshikentsu:</strong></p><p></p><p>He does less damage than an O-Sassin with no feats and a primary dump stat.</p><p></p><p>Small children cry when he shows up at their LFR tables.</p><p></p><p>He once dealt a creature its bloodied value in damage, then went back to playing his class.</p><p></p><p>He is...</p><p></p><p><img src="http://images.community.wizards.com/community.wizards.com/user/wolead/9142d3cf82dbd7dd328c999a67824940.jpg?v=58680" alt="" class="fr-fic fr-dii fr-draggable " style="" /></p><p>...the Iconic Vampire.</p><p></p><p></p><p><strong>Originally posted by tsuyoshikentsu:</strong></p><p></p><p>The Iconic Vampire</p><p>On One-Shotting Encounters</p><p><img src="http://images.community.wizards.com/community.wizards.com/user/wolead/9142d3cf82dbd7dd328c999a67824940.jpg?v=58680" alt="" class="fr-fic fr-dii fr-draggable " style="" /></p><p>"I assure you: most women would not consider finishing in six seconds a virtue."</p><p></p><p></p><p><strong>Originally posted by tsuyoshikentsu:</strong></p><p></p><p>The Iconic Vampire</p><p>On the Two-Surge System</p><p><img src="http://images.community.wizards.com/community.wizards.com/user/wolead/9142d3cf82dbd7dd328c999a67824940.jpg?v=58680" alt="" class="fr-fic fr-dii fr-draggable " style="" /></p><p>"The hot Tiefling Fighter's is the one you want to spend."</p><p></p><p></p><p><strong>Originally posted by tsuyoshikentsu:</strong></p><p></p><p>The Iconic Vampire</p><p>On Life</p><p><img src="http://images.community.wizards.com/community.wizards.com/user/wolead/9142d3cf82dbd7dd328c999a67824940.jpg?v=58680" alt="" class="fr-fic fr-dii fr-draggable " style="" /></p><p>"It's never too early to start beefing up your obituary."</p><p></p><p></p><p><strong>Originally posted by tsuyoshikentsu:</strong></p><p></p><p>The Iconic Vampire</p><p>On Party Roles</p><p><img src="http://images.community.wizards.com/community.wizards.com/user/wolead/9142d3cf82dbd7dd328c999a67824940.jpg?v=58680" alt="" class="fr-fic fr-dii fr-draggable " style="" /></p><p>"Find out what it is in the game that you do not do well, and then don't do that thing."</p><p></p><p></p><p><strong>Originally posted by tsuyoshikentsu:</strong></p><p></p><p>The Iconic Vampire</p><p>On Daily Power Selection</p><p><img src="http://images.community.wizards.com/community.wizards.com/user/wolead/9142d3cf82dbd7dd328c999a67824940.jpg?v=58680" alt="" class="fr-fic fr-dii fr-draggable " style="" /></p><p>"The right look should suffice."</p><p><img src="http://img863.imageshack.us/img863/493/vampeyes.png" alt="" class="fr-fic fr-dii fr-draggable " style="" /></p><p></p><p></p><p><strong>Originally posted by tsuyoshikentsu:</strong></p><p></p><p>That should be all, but one more for good luck. Feel free to post.</p><p></p><p></p><p><strong>Originally posted by mc-drowbane:</strong></p><p></p><p>LMAO - I totally approve of this.</p><p></p><p>I'll delete this post if need be. Carry on. </p><p></p><p></p><p><strong>Originally posted by LlamasNotsheep:</strong></p><p></p><p>Best guide ever. I'm impressed with how quickly you finished it.</p><p></p><p>You're not actually thinking of changing it, right? Because it's perfect right now. </p><p></p><p></p><p><strong>Originally posted by mc-drowbane:</strong></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p>Thread win. </p><p></p><p></p><p><strong>Originally posted by twisted9:</strong></p><p></p><p>This is awesome. Looking forward to it.</p><p></p><p></p><p><strong>Originally posted by Cyvaris:</strong></p><p></p><p>Those first two posts are just awesome. You really need to archive them/keep them in. Both had me in tears, probably a bad thing when I am in class.</p><p></p><p>Really a great handbook, I think it covers all the aspects and complexities of the Vampire class.</p><p></p><p></p><p><strong>Originally posted by Damon_Tor:</strong></p><p></p><p>So are all the vampire powers Gold? You literally <em>have</em> to take them, you don't get any more "must take" than that.</p><p></p><p>Not really sure why you needed to reserve so many spaces.</p><p></p><p>Racially, any race that doesn't have both Dex and Cha is red: a vampire needs both reasonably high in order to his with the powers that key off of cha (and it's not like be can choose <em>not</em> to take those powers)</p><p></p><p>a guide to vampires will consist of a discussion about races (ie, pick a dex/cha race, all others are traps) ability scores (ie, pick 18 dex, 14 cha, and 11 con, all others are traps) and the section on powers which will have exactly two entries, level 2 and level 22, with two powers each.</p><p></p><p>Can't poach powers in any meaningful way (and even if you do, your striker feature won't work with them) and you'll be at a loss for paragon paths for a similar reason.</p><p></p><p>The only section which will see anything like an actual guide will be on feats, which will be a standard mix of basic feat taxes (unarmored agility, improved defenses, expertise... is there a "focus" feat available?) specific vampire feat taxes (durable, maybe others) The items section is likely to be interesting because it will include items wich cost healing surges to use.</p><p></p><p></p><p><strong>Originally posted by sirrus21:</strong></p><p></p><p>It...it's beautiful. If the guide were nothing but Iconic Vampire, I would be ecstatic to read it for vampire-building advice. </p><p></p><p>Though in seriousness, I would have to agree with Damon_Tor for the most part. With fixed powers mostly negating power choice and the split attack stats (some powers rely on Dex, others on Cha) making any race that isn't Dex/Cha just not optimal, it's hard to pick the better choice...because there really isn't a choice. Luckily there's a lot of races with Dex/Cha though. Feats, items, and niche builds are pretty much everything here.</p><p></p><p>Though I do intend to use the Vampire class to build villains. With some DM tweaking, they can be pretty brutal.</p><p></p><p></p><p><strong>Originally posted by Armisael:</strong></p><p></p><p>Hahahahaha, amazing! Agree with what others have said here. With the class being on rails as hard as it is, this should totally be a <em>stylish </em>guide. <img src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" class="smilie smilie--sprite smilie--sprite7" alt=":p" title="Stick out tongue :p" loading="lazy" data-shortname=":p" /></p><p></p><p></p><p><strong>Originally posted by tsuyoshikentsu:</strong></p><p></p><p>Dude. Wait until the class comes out. You might be surprised.</p><p></p><p>For example, I am already looking into ways to use this with Kulkor, as it gets a Vampire MBA.</p><p></p><p></p><p><strong>Originally posted by Suzume_Stjohn:</strong></p><p></p><p>Could also rate the powers on how useful they are for others to steal <img src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" class="smilie smilie--sprite smilie--sprite2" alt=";)" title="Wink ;)" loading="lazy" data-shortname=";)" /> Specially the HE using adept dil. to ghetto MC. The dex based MBA will be big for some builds. The only downside is that it's a implement attack, but eh, we'll see how it goes. <img src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" class="smilie smilie--sprite smilie--sprite2" alt=";)" title="Wink ;)" loading="lazy" data-shortname=";)" /></p><p></p><p></p><p><strong>Originally posted by Aegeri:</strong></p><p></p><p>I have never been more keen to read one of the handbooks of this board.</p><p></p><p></p><p><strong>Originally posted by CrimsonAssassin:</strong></p><p></p><p>This guide is dripping with win.</p><p></p><p>So I just now read someone saying that the Vampire'll have implement attacks based on CHA? Hmmm...agreed that a DEX/CHA race will be optimal and I can go off some off the top of my head.</p><p></p><p>Halfling (lolsmallvampire)</p><p>Drow (sexy elf vampire)</p><p>Changeling (that shapeshifting effect could come up more often in a campaign if you're caught biting someone)</p><p>Goblin (eww...)</p><p></p><p></p><p><strong>Originally posted by Caeric:</strong></p><p></p><p>Ha. I approve of this guide.</p><p></p><p>But what is there to even say for the Vampire? Your class-based choices are limited to two utility levels. There's only one class paragon path. There's no class feats. Multiclassing for powers will negate your striker damage on those powers. You have to have high Dexterity and high Charisma to make sure all of your powers are useful, and that means that you don't have a lot of wiggle room for ability score spread (or race choice, since those boosts will matter quite a bit).</p><p></p><p>This is going to be one short guide.</p><p></p><p></p><p><strong>Originally posted by tsuyoshikentsu:</strong></p><p></p><p>To be honest, that's why I'm comfortable writing it. I'm not that great at optimization outside of skills, so the only thing I feel I could do justice is something like this.</p><p></p><p>Also, doing the handbook lets me pick exactly how much Iconic Vampire will be in it. C'est-a-dire, a lot.</p><p></p><p></p><p><strong>Originally posted by Bargle0:</strong></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p>There is nothing short about Iconic Vampire.</p><p></p><p></p><p><strong>Originally posted by Backlash3906:</strong></p><p></p><p>Here's the numbers on those implement attacks. <img src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" class="smilie smilie--sprite smilie--sprite1" alt=":)" title="Smile :)" loading="lazy" data-shortname=":)" /> </p><p></p><p>Dexterity Attacks </p><p>1 Melee-1 vs Fort At-Will </p><p>1 Melee-1 vs Reflex At-Will </p><p>2 Close blast 3 vs Fortitude Daily </p><p>2 Melee-1 vs Reflex Encounter </p><p>1 Close burst 1 vs Reflex Daily </p><p>1 Close blast 5 vs Fortitude Daily </p><p></p><p>Charisma (+2) Attacks </p><p>1 Ranged 5 vs Will At-Will </p><p>1 Ranged 5 vs Will Daily </p><p>1 Close burst 2 vs Will Daily (Beguiler Paragon Path lv20 power) </p><p>And then a reasonably complicated level 20 attack for the Stalker PP. </p><p></p><p>All of these powers are numbered, and some run in sequences of direct replacements of one another. </p><p>Swarm of Shadows (Lv 1) >> Hungry Swarm (Lv 15) >> Consuming Swarm (Lv 29) </p><p>Domineering Gaze (Lv 9) >> Irresistible Gaze (Lv 25) </p><p></p><p>This leads me to believe that further powers for the class will also run in sequences. Similar to the Warpriest and Cavalier/Blackguard domain/virtue/vice sequences.</p><p></p><p></p><p><strong>Originally posted by Undrhil:</strong></p><p></p><p>Actually, the Races section of the Vampire class description talks about Halfling Vampires. Personally, I'm thinking about making a Shade Vampire, just because that would be awesome. <img src="http://community.wizards.com/sites/all/modules/custom/forest_site/smileys/wizards/smile.gif" alt="" class="fr-fic fr-dii fr-draggable " style="" /></p><p></p><p>I wish the Vampire class had a MC feat for it, but since it's written Essentials-style, there is no MC feat. <img src="http://community.wizards.com/sites/all/modules/custom/forest_site/smileys/wizards/sad.gif" alt="" class="fr-fic fr-dii fr-draggable " style="" /> I guess half-elves in LFR get the best of this since they can retrain their racial power pick and get a Vampire at-will and then take Adept Dilletante to be multiclassed into it. Not sure if PMCing will be a viable option, but I guess a half-elf playing a CHA primary class could make off with the CHA+2 Vampire at-will and have it as an actual at-will power at paragon...</p><p></p><p></p><p><strong>Originally posted by Aegeri:</strong></p><p></p><p>Shade vampire? You're being ironic yes?</p><p></p><p></p><p><strong>Originally posted by Rokku:</strong></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p>Healing surges are for fools. Fools and <em>liberals.</em></p><p></p><p></p><p><strong>Originally posted by mellored:</strong></p><p></p><p>Looks like a job for revenant (warforged). Might not be iconic, but minor action surgless heal will go a long way, and allow you to use your surges for damage instead of healing.</p><p></p><p></p><p><strong>Originally posted by Undrhil:</strong></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p>What's wrong with a Shade Vampire? I happen to like the fact that I can use my allies as shiel- --- ... err, cover. <img src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" class="smilie smilie--sprite smilie--sprite2" alt=";)" title="Wink ;)" loading="lazy" data-shortname=";)" /> And then, after the combat, they let me heal. It's a win-win. .... for me. <img src="http://community.wizards.com/sites/all/modules/custom/forest_site/smileys/wizards/smile.gif" alt="" class="fr-fic fr-dii fr-draggable " style="" /></p><p></p><p></p><p><strong>Originally posted by raleel:</strong></p><p></p><p>I've not laughed so hard at a thread on this board ever.</p><p></p><p></p><p><strong>Originally posted by MalakLightfoot:</strong></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p>My group has been dominating during this season of Encounters, so I was planning on making a Shade Vampire for next reason to up the challenge on myself a little more. <img src="http://community.wizards.com/sites/all/modules/custom/forest_site/smileys/wizards/smile.gif" alt="" class="fr-fic fr-dii fr-draggable " style="" /></p><p></p><p></p><p><strong>Originally posted by Zathris:</strong></p><p></p><p style="text-align: center"><strong><span style="color: #ff0000">[SIZE=large] [/SIZE]</span>[SIZE=large] [/SIZE]</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center"></p> <p style="text-align: center"><span style="font-size: 15px"><strong><span style="color: #ff0000">[SIZE=small][SIZE=large]OBEY</span></strong></span><strong><span style="color: #ff0000">[/SIZE]</span>[SIZE=large][SIZE=small][SIZE=large]<strong> </strong>[/SIZE][/SIZE][/SIZE]</strong>[/size]</p> <p style="text-align: center"></p> <p style="text-align: center"></p> <p style="text-align: center"></p> <p style="text-align: center"><span style="font-size: 15px"><strong>[SIZE=large][SIZE=large]<strong><img src="http://www.wizards.com/dnd/images/ex_20110311.jpg" alt="" class="fr-fic fr-dii fr-draggable " style="" /></strong></strong></span><strong>[/SIZE]</strong>[/size]</p> <p style="text-align: center"></p> <p style="text-align: center"><span style="font-size: 15px"><strong>[SIZE=large][SIZE=large]<strong>MY THIRST</strong></strong></span><strong><strong> </strong>[/SIZE]</strong>[/size]</p><p></p><p></p><p><strong>Originally posted by Mand12:</strong></p><p></p><p><strong><em>HALFLING VAMPIRE</em></strong></p><p></p><p>Bringing new meaning to the term "ankle biter" since 2011!</p><p></p><p></p><p><strong>Originally posted by meleeeci:</strong></p><p></p><p>I think you should put the "<u><em>reserving for future disagreement</em></u>" feat in <span style="color: #00ffff">light blue</span>. It's useful for almost every race.</p><p></p><p></p><p><strong>Originally posted by Caeric:</strong></p><p></p><p></p><p>Now hold on there! [Insert feat here] isn't that good for [insert race, class, paragon path, feat, or power here], and that's kind of a big deal. I wouldn't rate [insert feat here] higher than <span style="color: #0000ff"><strong>blue</strong></span>, especially if you aren't using [insert feat or power here].</p><p></p><p>[Insert completely different feat here] should definately be <span style="color: #ff0000"><strong>red</strong></span>, I think. No synergy at all.</p><p></p><p></p><p><strong>Originally posted by XunValDorl_of_H...:</strong></p><p></p><p>I was thinking about a Blood Red Shardmind Vampire, but since they don't need to eat or drink then I guess the dependency on blood is out.</p><p></p><p></p><p><strong>Originally posted by Reg06:</strong></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p>*cough* <a href="http://www.somethingawful.com/d/movie-reviews/ankle-biters.php" target="_blank">2002</a> *cough*</p></blockquote><p></p>
[QUOTE="MonkLover, post: 6741649, member: 82105"] the following guide was more of a discussion. [b]Originally posted by tsuyoshikentsu:[/b] The Vampire Handbook I Don't Always Play Vampires [IMG]http://images.community.wizards.com/community.wizards.com/user/wolead/9142d3cf82dbd7dd328c999a67824940.jpg?v=58680[/IMG] But when I do, I prefer Hybrid. Stay thirsty, my friends. Seriously, that's it. Vampire is a class mechanically incapable of being an optimized Striker, and in many cases barely capable of being a Striker at all. It really doesn't help that every single significant class feature is contained in the Hybrid Vampire. Heck, many of the relevant features are in the multiclass feat! So, if you want to play an optimized Vampire... play something else, multiclass or Hybrid, and look up that class's handbook. In other words, if your Vampire is an optimized Vampire... [IMG]http://img8.imageshack.us/img8/4632/hybridvamp.png[/IMG] [COLOR=#ff0000]...He's Got A Little Hybrid In Him.[/COLOR] [b]Originally posted by tsuyoshikentsu:[/b] [COLOR=#ff0000]Warning![/COLOR] [IMG]http://www.wizards.com/dnd/images/ex_20110311.jpg[/IMG] This handbook contains copious amounts of Iconic Vampire. Women with heart conditions are advised not to look directly at Iconic Vampire. This also applies to women without heart conditions. He's very pretty - see? See how pretty he is? He's very pretty! I'd like to run my fingers through his hair, and I'm just a voice! [b]Originally posted by tsuyoshikentsu:[/b] [COLOR=#ff0000]Hello, gamers.[/COLOR] [IMG]http://www.wizards.com/dnd/images/ex_20110311.jpg[/IMG] Look at your striker, now back to me, now back at your striker, now back to me. Sadly, he isn’t me, but if he stopped killing things with weapons and switched to Vampire, he could strike like he’s me. Look down, back up, where are you? You’re on a boat with the striker your striker could strike like. What’s in your hand, back at me. I have it, it’s an oyster with two items that do that thing you love. Look again, the items are now astral diamonds. Anything is possible when your man strikes like a Vampire and not a normal striker. I’m on a horse. [b]Originally posted by tsuyoshikentsu:[/b] You ever notice how everything you say is creepier when you add "ladies" to the end? Well, hello! I'm the Vampire, the new striker from Heroes of Shadow! [IMG]http://www.wizards.com/dnd/images/ex_20110311.jpg[/IMG] [COLOR=#ff0000]...Ladies.[/COLOR] [b]Originally posted by tsuyoshikentsu:[/b] He does less damage than an O-Sassin with no feats and a primary dump stat. Small children cry when he shows up at their LFR tables. He once dealt a creature its bloodied value in damage, then went back to playing his class. He is... [IMG]http://images.community.wizards.com/community.wizards.com/user/wolead/9142d3cf82dbd7dd328c999a67824940.jpg?v=58680[/IMG] ...the Iconic Vampire. [b]Originally posted by tsuyoshikentsu:[/b] The Iconic Vampire On One-Shotting Encounters [IMG]http://images.community.wizards.com/community.wizards.com/user/wolead/9142d3cf82dbd7dd328c999a67824940.jpg?v=58680[/IMG] "I assure you: most women would not consider finishing in six seconds a virtue." [b]Originally posted by tsuyoshikentsu:[/b] The Iconic Vampire On the Two-Surge System [IMG]http://images.community.wizards.com/community.wizards.com/user/wolead/9142d3cf82dbd7dd328c999a67824940.jpg?v=58680[/IMG] "The hot Tiefling Fighter's is the one you want to spend." [b]Originally posted by tsuyoshikentsu:[/b] The Iconic Vampire On Life [IMG]http://images.community.wizards.com/community.wizards.com/user/wolead/9142d3cf82dbd7dd328c999a67824940.jpg?v=58680[/IMG] "It's never too early to start beefing up your obituary." [b]Originally posted by tsuyoshikentsu:[/b] The Iconic Vampire On Party Roles [IMG]http://images.community.wizards.com/community.wizards.com/user/wolead/9142d3cf82dbd7dd328c999a67824940.jpg?v=58680[/IMG] "Find out what it is in the game that you do not do well, and then don't do that thing." [b]Originally posted by tsuyoshikentsu:[/b] The Iconic Vampire On Daily Power Selection [IMG]http://images.community.wizards.com/community.wizards.com/user/wolead/9142d3cf82dbd7dd328c999a67824940.jpg?v=58680[/IMG] "The right look should suffice." [IMG]http://img863.imageshack.us/img863/493/vampeyes.png[/IMG] [b]Originally posted by tsuyoshikentsu:[/b] That should be all, but one more for good luck. Feel free to post. [b]Originally posted by mc-drowbane:[/b] LMAO - I totally approve of this. I'll delete this post if need be. Carry on. [b]Originally posted by LlamasNotsheep:[/b] Best guide ever. I'm impressed with how quickly you finished it. You're not actually thinking of changing it, right? Because it's perfect right now. [b]Originally posted by mc-drowbane:[/b] Thread win. [b]Originally posted by twisted9:[/b] This is awesome. Looking forward to it. [b]Originally posted by Cyvaris:[/b] Those first two posts are just awesome. You really need to archive them/keep them in. Both had me in tears, probably a bad thing when I am in class. Really a great handbook, I think it covers all the aspects and complexities of the Vampire class. [b]Originally posted by Damon_Tor:[/b] So are all the vampire powers Gold? You literally [i]have[/i] to take them, you don't get any more "must take" than that. Not really sure why you needed to reserve so many spaces. Racially, any race that doesn't have both Dex and Cha is red: a vampire needs both reasonably high in order to his with the powers that key off of cha (and it's not like be can choose [i]not[/i] to take those powers) a guide to vampires will consist of a discussion about races (ie, pick a dex/cha race, all others are traps) ability scores (ie, pick 18 dex, 14 cha, and 11 con, all others are traps) and the section on powers which will have exactly two entries, level 2 and level 22, with two powers each. Can't poach powers in any meaningful way (and even if you do, your striker feature won't work with them) and you'll be at a loss for paragon paths for a similar reason. The only section which will see anything like an actual guide will be on feats, which will be a standard mix of basic feat taxes (unarmored agility, improved defenses, expertise... is there a "focus" feat available?) specific vampire feat taxes (durable, maybe others) The items section is likely to be interesting because it will include items wich cost healing surges to use. [b]Originally posted by sirrus21:[/b] It...it's beautiful. If the guide were nothing but Iconic Vampire, I would be ecstatic to read it for vampire-building advice. Though in seriousness, I would have to agree with Damon_Tor for the most part. With fixed powers mostly negating power choice and the split attack stats (some powers rely on Dex, others on Cha) making any race that isn't Dex/Cha just not optimal, it's hard to pick the better choice...because there really isn't a choice. Luckily there's a lot of races with Dex/Cha though. Feats, items, and niche builds are pretty much everything here. Though I do intend to use the Vampire class to build villains. With some DM tweaking, they can be pretty brutal. [b]Originally posted by Armisael:[/b] Hahahahaha, amazing! Agree with what others have said here. With the class being on rails as hard as it is, this should totally be a [i]stylish [/i]guide. :P [b]Originally posted by tsuyoshikentsu:[/b] Dude. Wait until the class comes out. You might be surprised. For example, I am already looking into ways to use this with Kulkor, as it gets a Vampire MBA. [b]Originally posted by Suzume_Stjohn:[/b] Could also rate the powers on how useful they are for others to steal ;) Specially the HE using adept dil. to ghetto MC. The dex based MBA will be big for some builds. The only downside is that it's a implement attack, but eh, we'll see how it goes. ;) [b]Originally posted by Aegeri:[/b] I have never been more keen to read one of the handbooks of this board. [b]Originally posted by CrimsonAssassin:[/b] This guide is dripping with win. So I just now read someone saying that the Vampire'll have implement attacks based on CHA? Hmmm...agreed that a DEX/CHA race will be optimal and I can go off some off the top of my head. Halfling (lolsmallvampire) Drow (sexy elf vampire) Changeling (that shapeshifting effect could come up more often in a campaign if you're caught biting someone) Goblin (eww...) [b]Originally posted by Caeric:[/b] Ha. I approve of this guide. But what is there to even say for the Vampire? Your class-based choices are limited to two utility levels. There's only one class paragon path. There's no class feats. Multiclassing for powers will negate your striker damage on those powers. You have to have high Dexterity and high Charisma to make sure all of your powers are useful, and that means that you don't have a lot of wiggle room for ability score spread (or race choice, since those boosts will matter quite a bit). This is going to be one short guide. [b]Originally posted by tsuyoshikentsu:[/b] To be honest, that's why I'm comfortable writing it. I'm not that great at optimization outside of skills, so the only thing I feel I could do justice is something like this. Also, doing the handbook lets me pick exactly how much Iconic Vampire will be in it. C'est-a-dire, a lot. [b]Originally posted by Bargle0:[/b] There is nothing short about Iconic Vampire. [b]Originally posted by Backlash3906:[/b] Here's the numbers on those implement attacks. (: Dexterity Attacks 1 Melee-1 vs Fort At-Will 1 Melee-1 vs Reflex At-Will 2 Close blast 3 vs Fortitude Daily 2 Melee-1 vs Reflex Encounter 1 Close burst 1 vs Reflex Daily 1 Close blast 5 vs Fortitude Daily Charisma (+2) Attacks 1 Ranged 5 vs Will At-Will 1 Ranged 5 vs Will Daily 1 Close burst 2 vs Will Daily (Beguiler Paragon Path lv20 power) And then a reasonably complicated level 20 attack for the Stalker PP. All of these powers are numbered, and some run in sequences of direct replacements of one another. Swarm of Shadows (Lv 1) >> Hungry Swarm (Lv 15) >> Consuming Swarm (Lv 29) Domineering Gaze (Lv 9) >> Irresistible Gaze (Lv 25) This leads me to believe that further powers for the class will also run in sequences. Similar to the Warpriest and Cavalier/Blackguard domain/virtue/vice sequences. [b]Originally posted by Undrhil:[/b] Actually, the Races section of the Vampire class description talks about Halfling Vampires. Personally, I'm thinking about making a Shade Vampire, just because that would be awesome. [IMG]http://community.wizards.com/sites/all/modules/custom/forest_site/smileys/wizards/smile.gif[/IMG] I wish the Vampire class had a MC feat for it, but since it's written Essentials-style, there is no MC feat. [IMG]http://community.wizards.com/sites/all/modules/custom/forest_site/smileys/wizards/sad.gif[/IMG] I guess half-elves in LFR get the best of this since they can retrain their racial power pick and get a Vampire at-will and then take Adept Dilletante to be multiclassed into it. Not sure if PMCing will be a viable option, but I guess a half-elf playing a CHA primary class could make off with the CHA+2 Vampire at-will and have it as an actual at-will power at paragon... [b]Originally posted by Aegeri:[/b] Shade vampire? You're being ironic yes? [b]Originally posted by Rokku:[/b] Healing surges are for fools. Fools and [i]liberals.[/i] [b]Originally posted by mellored:[/b] Looks like a job for revenant (warforged). Might not be iconic, but minor action surgless heal will go a long way, and allow you to use your surges for damage instead of healing. [b]Originally posted by Undrhil:[/b] What's wrong with a Shade Vampire? I happen to like the fact that I can use my allies as shiel- --- ... err, cover. ;) And then, after the combat, they let me heal. It's a win-win. .... for me. [IMG]http://community.wizards.com/sites/all/modules/custom/forest_site/smileys/wizards/smile.gif[/IMG] [b]Originally posted by raleel:[/b] I've not laughed so hard at a thread on this board ever. [b]Originally posted by MalakLightfoot:[/b] My group has been dominating during this season of Encounters, so I was planning on making a Shade Vampire for next reason to up the challenge on myself a little more. [IMG]http://community.wizards.com/sites/all/modules/custom/forest_site/smileys/wizards/smile.gif[/IMG] [b]Originally posted by Armisael:[/b] Make him attack with his eyes closed too. Better go hardcore to up the ante. :P [b]Originally posted by Zathris:[/b] [CENTER][b][COLOR=#ff0000][SIZE=large] [/SIZE][/COLOR][SIZE=large] [/SIZE][/b] [Size=4][b][COLOR=#ff0000][SIZE=small][SIZE=large]OBEY[/COLOR][/b][/SIZE][b][COLOR=#ff0000][/SIZE][/COLOR][SIZE=large][SIZE=small][SIZE=large][b] [/b][/SIZE][/SIZE][/SIZE][/b][/size] [Size=4][b][/b][/size] [Size=4][b][SIZE=large][SIZE=large][b][IMG]http://www.wizards.com/dnd/images/ex_20110311.jpg[/IMG][/b][/b][/SIZE][b][/SIZE][/b][/size] [Size=4][b][SIZE=large][SIZE=large][b]MY THIRST[/b][/b][/SIZE][b][b] [/b][/SIZE][/b][/size][/CENTER] [b]Originally posted by Mand12:[/b] [b][i]HALFLING VAMPIRE[/i][/b] Bringing new meaning to the term "ankle biter" since 2011! [b]Originally posted by meleeeci:[/b] I think you should put the "[u][i]reserving for future disagreement[/i][/u]" feat in [COLOR=#00ffff]light blue[/COLOR]. It's useful for almost every race. [b]Originally posted by Caeric:[/b] Now hold on there! [Insert feat here] isn't that good for [insert race, class, paragon path, feat, or power here], and that's kind of a big deal. I wouldn't rate [insert feat here] higher than [COLOR=#0000ff][b]blue[/b][/COLOR], especially if you aren't using [insert feat or power here]. [Insert completely different feat here] should definately be [COLOR=#ff0000][b]red[/b][/COLOR], I think. No synergy at all. [b]Originally posted by XunValDorl_of_H...:[/b] I was thinking about a Blood Red Shardmind Vampire, but since they don't need to eat or drink then I guess the dependency on blood is out. [b]Originally posted by Reg06:[/b] *cough* [URL=http://www.somethingawful.com/d/movie-reviews/ankle-biters.php]2002[/URL] *cough* [b]Originally posted by tsuyoshikentsu:[/b] [COLOR=#ff0000]Warning![/COLOR] [IMG]http://www.wizards.com/dnd/images/ex_20110311.jpg[/IMG] This handbook contains copious amounts of Iconic Vampire. Women with heart conditions are advised not to look directly at Iconic Vampire. This also applies to women without heart conditions. He's very pretty - see? See how pretty he is? He's very pretty! I'd like to run my fingers through his hair, and I'm just a voice! [b]Originally posted by tsuyoshikentsu:[/b] [COLOR=#ff0000]Hello, gamers.[/COLOR] [IMG]http://www.wizards.com/dnd/images/ex_20110311.jpg[/IMG] Look at your striker, now back to me, now back at your striker, now back to me. Sadly, he isn’t me, but if he stopped killing things with weapons and switched to Vampire, he could strike like he’s me. Look down, back up, where are you? You’re on a boat with the striker your striker could strike like. What’s in your hand, back at me. I have it, it’s an oyster with two items that do that thing you love. Look again, the items are now astral diamonds. Anything is possible when your man strikes like a Vampire and not a normal striker. I’m on a horse. [b]Originally posted by tsuyoshikentsu:[/b] You ever notice how everything you say is creepier when you add "ladies" to the end? Well, hello! I'm the Vampire, the new striker from Heroes of Shadow! [IMG]http://www.wizards.com/dnd/images/ex_20110311.jpg[/IMG] [COLOR=#ff0000]...Ladies.[/COLOR] [b]Originally posted by tsuyoshikentsu:[/b] He does less damage than an O-Sassin with no feats and a primary dump stat. Small children cry when he shows up at their LFR tables. He once dealt a creature its bloodied value in damage, then went back to playing his class. He is... [IMG]http://images.community.wizards.com/community.wizards.com/user/wolead/9142d3cf82dbd7dd328c999a67824940.jpg?v=58680[/IMG] ...the Iconic Vampire. [b]Originally posted by tsuyoshikentsu:[/b] The Iconic Vampire On One-Shotting Encounters [IMG]http://images.community.wizards.com/community.wizards.com/user/wolead/9142d3cf82dbd7dd328c999a67824940.jpg?v=58680[/IMG] "I assure you: most women would not consider finishing in six seconds a virtue." [b]Originally posted by tsuyoshikentsu:[/b] The Iconic Vampire On the Two-Surge System [IMG]http://images.community.wizards.com/community.wizards.com/user/wolead/9142d3cf82dbd7dd328c999a67824940.jpg?v=58680[/IMG] "The hot Tiefling Fighter's is the one you want to spend." [b]Originally posted by tsuyoshikentsu:[/b] The Iconic Vampire On Life [IMG]http://images.community.wizards.com/community.wizards.com/user/wolead/9142d3cf82dbd7dd328c999a67824940.jpg?v=58680[/IMG] "It's never too early to start beefing up your obituary." [b]Originally posted by tsuyoshikentsu:[/b] The Iconic Vampire On Party Roles [IMG]http://images.community.wizards.com/community.wizards.com/user/wolead/9142d3cf82dbd7dd328c999a67824940.jpg?v=58680[/IMG] "Find out what it is in the game that you do not do well, and then don't do that thing." [b]Originally posted by tsuyoshikentsu:[/b] The Iconic Vampire On Daily Power Selection [IMG]http://images.community.wizards.com/community.wizards.com/user/wolead/9142d3cf82dbd7dd328c999a67824940.jpg?v=58680[/IMG] "The right look should suffice." [IMG]http://img863.imageshack.us/img863/493/vampeyes.png[/IMG] [b]Originally posted by tsuyoshikentsu:[/b] That should be all, but one more for good luck. Feel free to post. [b]Originally posted by mc-drowbane:[/b] LMAO - I totally approve of this. I'll delete this post if need be. Carry on. [b]Originally posted by LlamasNotsheep:[/b] Best guide ever. I'm impressed with how quickly you finished it. You're not actually thinking of changing it, right? Because it's perfect right now. [b]Originally posted by mc-drowbane:[/b] Thread win. [b]Originally posted by twisted9:[/b] This is awesome. Looking forward to it. [b]Originally posted by Cyvaris:[/b] Those first two posts are just awesome. You really need to archive them/keep them in. Both had me in tears, probably a bad thing when I am in class. Really a great handbook, I think it covers all the aspects and complexities of the Vampire class. [b]Originally posted by Damon_Tor:[/b] So are all the vampire powers Gold? You literally [i]have[/i] to take them, you don't get any more "must take" than that. Not really sure why you needed to reserve so many spaces. Racially, any race that doesn't have both Dex and Cha is red: a vampire needs both reasonably high in order to his with the powers that key off of cha (and it's not like be can choose [i]not[/i] to take those powers) a guide to vampires will consist of a discussion about races (ie, pick a dex/cha race, all others are traps) ability scores (ie, pick 18 dex, 14 cha, and 11 con, all others are traps) and the section on powers which will have exactly two entries, level 2 and level 22, with two powers each. Can't poach powers in any meaningful way (and even if you do, your striker feature won't work with them) and you'll be at a loss for paragon paths for a similar reason. The only section which will see anything like an actual guide will be on feats, which will be a standard mix of basic feat taxes (unarmored agility, improved defenses, expertise... is there a "focus" feat available?) specific vampire feat taxes (durable, maybe others) The items section is likely to be interesting because it will include items wich cost healing surges to use. [b]Originally posted by sirrus21:[/b] It...it's beautiful. If the guide were nothing but Iconic Vampire, I would be ecstatic to read it for vampire-building advice. Though in seriousness, I would have to agree with Damon_Tor for the most part. With fixed powers mostly negating power choice and the split attack stats (some powers rely on Dex, others on Cha) making any race that isn't Dex/Cha just not optimal, it's hard to pick the better choice...because there really isn't a choice. Luckily there's a lot of races with Dex/Cha though. Feats, items, and niche builds are pretty much everything here. Though I do intend to use the Vampire class to build villains. With some DM tweaking, they can be pretty brutal. [b]Originally posted by Armisael:[/b] Hahahahaha, amazing! Agree with what others have said here. With the class being on rails as hard as it is, this should totally be a [i]stylish [/i]guide. :P [b]Originally posted by tsuyoshikentsu:[/b] Dude. Wait until the class comes out. You might be surprised. For example, I am already looking into ways to use this with Kulkor, as it gets a Vampire MBA. [b]Originally posted by Suzume_Stjohn:[/b] Could also rate the powers on how useful they are for others to steal ;) Specially the HE using adept dil. to ghetto MC. The dex based MBA will be big for some builds. The only downside is that it's a implement attack, but eh, we'll see how it goes. ;) [b]Originally posted by Aegeri:[/b] I have never been more keen to read one of the handbooks of this board. [b]Originally posted by CrimsonAssassin:[/b] This guide is dripping with win. So I just now read someone saying that the Vampire'll have implement attacks based on CHA? Hmmm...agreed that a DEX/CHA race will be optimal and I can go off some off the top of my head. Halfling (lolsmallvampire) Drow (sexy elf vampire) Changeling (that shapeshifting effect could come up more often in a campaign if you're caught biting someone) Goblin (eww...) [b]Originally posted by Caeric:[/b] Ha. I approve of this guide. But what is there to even say for the Vampire? Your class-based choices are limited to two utility levels. There's only one class paragon path. There's no class feats. Multiclassing for powers will negate your striker damage on those powers. You have to have high Dexterity and high Charisma to make sure all of your powers are useful, and that means that you don't have a lot of wiggle room for ability score spread (or race choice, since those boosts will matter quite a bit). This is going to be one short guide. [b]Originally posted by tsuyoshikentsu:[/b] To be honest, that's why I'm comfortable writing it. I'm not that great at optimization outside of skills, so the only thing I feel I could do justice is something like this. Also, doing the handbook lets me pick exactly how much Iconic Vampire will be in it. C'est-a-dire, a lot. [b]Originally posted by Bargle0:[/b] There is nothing short about Iconic Vampire. [b]Originally posted by Backlash3906:[/b] Here's the numbers on those implement attacks. (: Dexterity Attacks 1 Melee-1 vs Fort At-Will 1 Melee-1 vs Reflex At-Will 2 Close blast 3 vs Fortitude Daily 2 Melee-1 vs Reflex Encounter 1 Close burst 1 vs Reflex Daily 1 Close blast 5 vs Fortitude Daily Charisma (+2) Attacks 1 Ranged 5 vs Will At-Will 1 Ranged 5 vs Will Daily 1 Close burst 2 vs Will Daily (Beguiler Paragon Path lv20 power) And then a reasonably complicated level 20 attack for the Stalker PP. All of these powers are numbered, and some run in sequences of direct replacements of one another. Swarm of Shadows (Lv 1) >> Hungry Swarm (Lv 15) >> Consuming Swarm (Lv 29) Domineering Gaze (Lv 9) >> Irresistible Gaze (Lv 25) This leads me to believe that further powers for the class will also run in sequences. Similar to the Warpriest and Cavalier/Blackguard domain/virtue/vice sequences. [b]Originally posted by Undrhil:[/b] Actually, the Races section of the Vampire class description talks about Halfling Vampires. Personally, I'm thinking about making a Shade Vampire, just because that would be awesome. [IMG]http://community.wizards.com/sites/all/modules/custom/forest_site/smileys/wizards/smile.gif[/IMG] I wish the Vampire class had a MC feat for it, but since it's written Essentials-style, there is no MC feat. [IMG]http://community.wizards.com/sites/all/modules/custom/forest_site/smileys/wizards/sad.gif[/IMG] I guess half-elves in LFR get the best of this since they can retrain their racial power pick and get a Vampire at-will and then take Adept Dilletante to be multiclassed into it. Not sure if PMCing will be a viable option, but I guess a half-elf playing a CHA primary class could make off with the CHA+2 Vampire at-will and have it as an actual at-will power at paragon... [b]Originally posted by Aegeri:[/b] Shade vampire? You're being ironic yes? [b]Originally posted by Rokku:[/b] Healing surges are for fools. Fools and [i]liberals.[/i] [b]Originally posted by mellored:[/b] Looks like a job for revenant (warforged). Might not be iconic, but minor action surgless heal will go a long way, and allow you to use your surges for damage instead of healing. [b]Originally posted by Undrhil:[/b] What's wrong with a Shade Vampire? I happen to like the fact that I can use my allies as shiel- --- ... err, cover. ;) And then, after the combat, they let me heal. It's a win-win. .... for me. [IMG]http://community.wizards.com/sites/all/modules/custom/forest_site/smileys/wizards/smile.gif[/IMG] [b]Originally posted by raleel:[/b] I've not laughed so hard at a thread on this board ever. [b]Originally posted by MalakLightfoot:[/b] My group has been dominating during this season of Encounters, so I was planning on making a Shade Vampire for next reason to up the challenge on myself a little more. [IMG]http://community.wizards.com/sites/all/modules/custom/forest_site/smileys/wizards/smile.gif[/IMG] [b]Originally posted by Zathris:[/b] [CENTER][b][COLOR=#ff0000][SIZE=large] [/SIZE][/COLOR][SIZE=large] [/SIZE][/b] [Size=4][b][COLOR=#ff0000][SIZE=small][SIZE=large]OBEY[/COLOR][/b][/SIZE][b][COLOR=#ff0000][/SIZE][/COLOR][SIZE=large][SIZE=small][SIZE=large][b] [/b][/SIZE][/SIZE][/SIZE][/b][/size] [Size=4][b][/b][/size] [Size=4][b][SIZE=large][SIZE=large][b][IMG]http://www.wizards.com/dnd/images/ex_20110311.jpg[/IMG][/b][/b][/SIZE][b][/SIZE][/b][/size] [Size=4][b][SIZE=large][SIZE=large][b]MY THIRST[/b][/b][/SIZE][b][b] [/b][/SIZE][/b][/size][/CENTER] [b]Originally posted by Mand12:[/b] [b][i]HALFLING VAMPIRE[/i][/b] Bringing new meaning to the term "ankle biter" since 2011! [b]Originally posted by meleeeci:[/b] I think you should put the "[u][i]reserving for future disagreement[/i][/u]" feat in [COLOR=#00ffff]light blue[/COLOR]. It's useful for almost every race. [b]Originally posted by Caeric:[/b] Now hold on there! [Insert feat here] isn't that good for [insert race, class, paragon path, feat, or power here], and that's kind of a big deal. I wouldn't rate [insert feat here] higher than [COLOR=#0000ff][b]blue[/b][/COLOR], especially if you aren't using [insert feat or power here]. [Insert completely different feat here] should definately be [COLOR=#ff0000][b]red[/b][/COLOR], I think. No synergy at all. [b]Originally posted by XunValDorl_of_H...:[/b] I was thinking about a Blood Red Shardmind Vampire, but since they don't need to eat or drink then I guess the dependency on blood is out. [b]Originally posted by Reg06:[/b] *cough* [URL=http://www.somethingawful.com/d/movie-reviews/ankle-biters.php]2002[/URL] *cough* [/QUOTE]
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