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Thrill of the Hunt: The Ranger's Handbook (by lordduskblade)
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<blockquote data-quote="Veep" data-source="post: 6707664" data-attributes="member: 6793297"><p><strong><p style="text-align: center"><span style="font-size: 18px">Paragon Paths: Masters of the Hunt</span></p><p></strong></p><p>Rangers are blessed with a pretty good selection of Paragon Paths, many of whom have an offensive outlook, which is what you should be looking for. If you're looking for Paragon Paths that other classes have to offer, the Multiclass section is where you'll find them.</p><p></p><p><strong>Ranger Paragon Paths</strong></p><p> </p><p><span style="color: #800080">Arena Champion</span> (D 368) - A nice revival feature and a decent AP benefit, but that's where the fun ends for this Path. The attack powers suck (basically augments to your Melee Basic Attack), and the attack buff feature is not worth burning a Standard Action for it (who uses total defense with any kind of regularity?). Rangers are also not truly able to exploit the freebie attacks from feinting this path offers. Not a bad Path, but not a good match.</p><p></p><p>Avalanche Hurler (MP) - Thrown Weapon Rangers aren't the stereotypical Ranger, but this path is a pretty decent incentive to make one. A die size increase while throwing leans you in favor of Ranged over Melee, but the whole point behind the path is versatility. The powers aren't the greatest thing since sliced bread, but Quick-Draw Trick is cool (and it's always available).</p><p></p><p><span style="color: #00ccff">Battlefield Archer</span> (PHB) - A mighty Paragon Path for any Archer, this offers an attack bonus for your whole party, the ability to Quarry multiple targets, and what amounts to an Action Point every encounter with its Utility power. The attack powers are also decent, especially the Encounter one. Basically the only reason to select Archery Style.</p><p></p><p><span style="color: #ff0000">Beast Stalker</span> (PHB) - If the Battlefield Archer is a credit to the Archery Style, this is an insult. The AP feature is basically the only thing worth a damn about this Path.</p><p></p><p><span style="color: #0000ff">Blade Dancer</span> (MP) - This path is interesting in that it takes a defensive outlook (which is kind of weird considering the very offensive bent of the Ranger). It also prefers Heavy Blades and/or Light Blades. The features are pretty solid, though, as are the powers, with a <span style="color: #ff9900">mindblowingly good</span> Encounter attack power as the highlight. A very good path, and certainly <span style="color: #00ccff"><strong>excellent</strong></span> for the right Ranger.</p><p></p><p><span style="color: #0000ff">Darkstrider</span> (MP 2) - This path likes getting the drop on enemies and whacking them hard. To that end, you get bonuses to damage when they're not looking and blindsight. This is only a real option for Ranged Rangers because of the MAD it would afflict a Melee character with, and it's extra tasty for a Beastmaster Archer who can stand still and shoot while hiding. A bit of a niche path, but still very effective with the proper setup.</p><p></p><p><span style="color: #800080">Feral Spirit</span> (MP) - The universal Beastmaster Paragon Path, it suffers from many of the weakness that plague the build itself. The features are uninspired, the powers are weak, and nothing really balances that out to an extent where it's worth making this an option.</p><p></p><p>Giantslayer (MP) - Considering that most enemies will be Large or larger, this PP's additional effects will actually see plenty of play, so I'd put that worry to rest. That being said, the features are unimpressive, unless you're getting grabbed all the time and you love to provoke OA's. The Daily power stuns, but that's about the end for you. It's OK overall.</p><p></p><p><span style="color: #0000ff">Harrowing Swarm Archer</span> (MP 2) - A Paragon Path that keys off of ongoing damage. This is kind of feat-intensive (you need Bleeding Precision and Harrowing Swarm Student in additional to the usual bells and whistles an Archer carries), but it has potential, especially if you have a bit of luck and can keep the effects on without having to put too much investment into failed saves.</p><p></p><p><strong><span style="color: #800080">Herald of Madness</span> (D 394)</strong> - As the name (and fluff) implies, this Path is all over the place. I don't consider it to be much of a fit on a Ranger, though.</p><p></p><p><span style="color: #800080">High Forest Scout</span> (FRPG) - A lackluster Ranged PP, compared to what is available. To be honest, it feels like a rough draft of the Sylvan Archer, and it might have been just that.</p><p></p><p><span style="color: #800080">Horizon Walker</span> (MP) - Though this PP may have been part of the Apocalypse Twins combo once upon a time, it's not that hot for actual Rangers (Standard Action single attack powers and conditional features? WHY?!).</p><p></p><p>Huntmaster (MP 2) - I'm not the biggest fan of the Hunting Spear style, but it can't be denied that the features for L11 are rock-solid (+2 to hit vs. your Quarry, and +1/2 level to damage on an AP). Everything else about the path is pretty mediocre IMHO, though, unless you feel like subbing in for your Defender and slapping on a perma-mark on your Quarry. This Path is a heck of a lot better on Hybrid Ranger|Defenders than it is for pure Rangers.</p><p></p><p>Impilturan Demonslayer (FRPG) - Though they only work at maximum effect against demons (and boy, are they awesome against them), this PP's abilities are very solid against everyone. Unfortunately, demons aren't a bread-and-butter enemy in most campaigns, at least not until Epic Tier. </p><p></p><p><span style="color: #0000ff">Lone Wolf</span> (MP 2) - This Paragon Path focuses on making you a better 1-on-1 Fighter. The major perk is the +2 to hit against enemies you isolate, though a feature to help you do that and a decent shifting power aren't bad either (the attack powers kind of suck, though).</p><p></p><p><strong><span style="color: #800080">Ocular Adept</span> (D 394)</strong> - A sweet Daily power keeps this Path from being too weak, but even then most of the material in it just doesn't jive with what the average Ranger is attempting to achieve.</p><p></p><p>Pack Runner (MP) - Decent overall abilities and powers for Wolf Beastmasters, though it loses a bit of utility at Epic, when you can and should be spending your minor actions on free Beast attacks instead of shifting about for +1 to hit.</p><p></p><p><span style="color: #00ccff">Pathfinder</span> (PHB) - This Paragon Path injects some Defender into your Ranger, handing him a very strong and permanent source of THP and some powers that involve stickiness and staying upright. It also provides a sweet action advantage benefit on an AP, which can be used for nova muscle if you so choose. It doesn't outright say that it helps you deal more damage, but its features add up such that you end up doing more damage. Highly recommended. </p><p></p><p><span style="color: #800080">Reaving Axe Savant</span> (MP 2) - This path basically centers around imposing conditions and taking advantage of them, such as prone, immobilized, and the like. Status effects aren't exactly your forte, so this PP is not all that, and the style doesn't key off your favored attribute.</p><p></p><p><span style="color: #0000ff">Ruthless Punisher</span> (MP) - Since humanoid foes are common, specializing in them is not off-base. The fact that it offers a Wisdom-based boost to your damage and your ongoing damage as well as some very solid powers make this a very strong Paragon Path, and it's definitely the Path of choice for Bleeder builds.</p><p></p><p><span style="color: #0000ff">Sharpshooter</span> (MP) - A free RBA when you begin your AP sequence is a formidable (and rare) feature among Ranged-heavy Paragon Paths, but one of its great tricks (combining with Beast Protector to give you a chance at OAs at range) is no more. Still good thanks to the AP feature and a decent self-buff Utility, but nothing to slobber over.</p><p></p><p>Shinaelestran Guardian (MP 2) - It has two very good features at Level 11, but the L16 one is very underwhelming. It also has one awesome Utility power and some decent attack powers. I think it's solid, but it lacks the one defining thing that would make you want to take it IMHO.</p><p></p><p><span style="color: #00ccff">Stormwarden</span> (PHB) - One of the heavyweights in the DPR business, the Stormwarden has two automatic damage class features and a strong stance power to dish out consistently high damage. The attack powers are nothing special (multitargeting...), but they're not bad, and the Daily at least attacks twice in that close burst. </p><p></p><p><span style="color: #0000ff">Snow Tiger</span> (MP 2) - This is a path focused wielding light weapons, such as Daggers and Kukri. The AP benefit is cool, and some decent powers to boot. Not a bad path at all.</p><p></p><p><span style="color: #800080">Wildcat Stalker</span> (MP) - This Paragon Path is about as conditional as they come; the only feature that is fairly universal is at Level 16. The powers are similarly mediocre. To boot, the Beast you have to pick to use this path blows, too. Not a good pick.</p><p></p><p><span style="color: #800080">Wyrm Hunter</span> (D 369) - The features are conditional to Dragons (duh), and the powers aren’t multiattacks. Lame overall.</p><p> </p><p></p><p><strong>Racial Paragon Paths</strong></p><p> </p><p>Here, I'll be marking the race that corresponds to the Path along with the source. We'll only be concerning ourselves with the recommended Paragon Paths here, that is to say, those rated <strong>Black</strong> or higher. If it's not on the list and it's in my sources, it's not a good idea.</p><p></p><p><span style="color: #00ccff">Adroit Explorer</span> (Human - PHB 2) - This Paragon Path offers 2 big features that Rangers would be interested in - the first is a reload of a very good or even great Encounter power, the next is more Action Points to be going nova more often (or even burn them both in a super-nova type of turn).</p><p></p><p><span style="color: #0000ff">Blade Banshee</span> (Eladrin - MP) - The features are nice overall (+Wis to damage ftw!). The powers all require a Longsword (boo), but they're pretty solid. The outlook of the Path's powers (AoE's, status effects) is more suited to a Controller or a Defender than it is for a Striker, though.</p><p></p><p>Blade of Cendriane (Eladrin - MOTP) - Surprise! Another Eladrin Ranger Paragon Path. The teleporting focus makes it better for a Swordmage than it is for you, though you get some use out of it since you have Fey Step and can you dual-wield Longswords (plus, every power the Path provides has the Teleportation keyword).</p><p></p><p><span style="color: #0000ff">Bloodfury Hunter</span> (Shifter - MP 2) - A Shifter Paragon Path with some serious power-ups for the Shifting power (with Longtooth Shifting, you get +2 to hit and your Wis+2 to damage). You also get your Wisdom again on an AP. The attack powers are pretty lame, but it's still a pretty cool Path overall. Just make sure you get bloodied a lot.</p><p></p><p>Bloodfury Savage (Half-Orc - PHB 2) - The stat synergy is awesome (Str and Dex ftw), the features are nothing to write home about (speed, rerolling Intimidate checks, and resist all?), but the powers offer plenty of damage bonuses (too bad, because they're only single-swing attacks...). Average overall IMHO.</p><p></p><p><strong><span style="color: #0000ff">Mithral Arm</span> (Dragonborn - D 385)</strong> - The Dragonborn's version of the Adroit Explorer, it also has a nice suite of power recovery toys, as well as some healing and defense to round it out. A pretty good pick.</p><p></p><p><span style="color: #0000ff">Sylvan Archer</span> (Elf - MP) - While this class-race specific path has some features and powers that are pretty cool (including one that amounts to a second use of Disruptive Strike), some of them stink up the place (negating cover on an AP and +2 to Perception? Really?). Not as good as Battlefield Archer or Sharpshooter because of that, but a good choice overall. </p><p> </p><p></p><p><strong>Dragonmarked Paragon Paths (EPG)</strong></p><p> </p><p>Again, we will only concern ourselves with Paths that would make you an effective Ranger. I also note the expected (note: not required) race for the Path, as well as the Dragonmark Feat you have to take to gain access.</p><p></p><p><span style="color: #0000ff">Lyrandar Wind-Rider</span> (Half-Elf, Mark of Storm) - The powers are at best marginally useful to you (you'd need Implements and a Dex/Con Archer build to make them truly worthwhile), but +1 to hit and +Con to damage for dealing lightning damage is one heck of an incentive, plus a Utility power that grants flight can certainly be useful.</p><p></p><p><span style="color: #0000ff">Tharashk Wayfinder</span> (Half-Orc, Mark of Finding) - While I'm not a fan of the Encounter attack power, the rest of the Paragon Path is a solid fit for an Archer Ranger who is dedicated to not letting enemies get too close. The free Combat Advantage lets you pick an enchantment other than Frost, and the Daily can be a solid setup for a nova.</p><p></p><p><span style="color: #0000ff">Vadalis Griffonmaster</span> (Human, Mark of Handling) - Easily the best Beastmaster-oriented Paragon Path out there. The Vadalis-bred Griffon is an awesome companion (and a mount) that can FLY and take you with it, while featuring a great array of attack, defense, and HP, and the path's powers are pretty good (though I'm not too keen on the Daily attack power, and the L16 feature is plain).</p><p> </p><p></p><p><strong><p style="text-align: center"><span style="font-size: 18px">Epic Destinies: Legends of the Hunt</span></p></strong></p><p style="text-align: center"><strong><span style="font-size: 18px"></span></p><p></strong><strong>Ranger Epic Destinies</strong></p><p> </p><p>As is the norm, we'll only talk about Epic Destinies worth having (Black or higher) here.</p><p></p><p>Beastlord (MP) - This path is one of the few perks Beastmaster Rangers get to enjoy, with effective immortality as a capstone if you play it smart. </p><p></p><p><span style="color: #0000ff">Champion of Prophecy</span> (EPG) - Pretty similar to Demigod, but with an emphasis on milestones. Not quite as good IMHO, but that's a high standard to meet.</p><p></p><p><span style="color: #00ccff">Chosen</span> (FRPG) - Pretty similar to Demigod overall, and can be even better if you find a Utility power you like more than Divine Regeneration.</p><p></p><p>Darklord (D 372) - So... you wanna be the Grim Reaper? All things aside, this is a pretty strong ED. I don't like the lack of ability score boosts, and rituals will likely be covered by another party member, but reviving people you drop has potential.</p><p></p><p><span style="color: #0000ff">Deadly Trickster</span> (PHB) - This is a nice choice for Archers and other Dexterity-based Rangers, especially because of the rerolls. Not burning a power when you roll 18+ is sweet, too.</p><p></p><p><span style="color: #00ccff">Demigod</span> (PHB) - Still arguably the best Epic Destiny for any character, and you are no exception, especially if you're not in heavy armor. </p><p></p><p><strong><span style="color: #00ccff">Destined Scion</span> (HotFK)</strong> - Another off-shoot from the Demigod tree, a straight-up attack and save bonus along with the two ability score bonuses make it a strong choice.</p><p></p><p><span style="color: #00ccff">Eternal Seeker</span> (PHB) - The mix-and-matching part is very appealing, and it only gets better as more material is released. Right now, it's looking very impressive overall. </p><p></p><p>Free Soul (D 376) - A decent slippery ED for Revenants.</p><p></p><p><span style="color: #0000ff">Godhunter</span> (MP) - Since most of the capstone enemies you will be facing at Epic tier will be higher level than you, these features are very strong.</p><p></p><p>Harper of Legend (D 367) - Not a bad choice for an ED, but there are better candidates.</p><p></p><p><strong><span style="color: #00ccff">Heir of Siberys</span> (D 388)</strong> - A branch off the Demigod ED tree, this one offers a variety of effects to choose from as a Utility power. The powers for Finding, Handling, Scribing, and Shadow look particularly promising for a Ranger.</p><p></p><p><strong><span style="color: #00ccff">Hordemaster</span> (DSCS)</strong> - An interesting spin on the classic Demigod Epic Destiny, this one has some nice Leader-y flavor and powers you could use to good effect.</p><p></p><p><strong><span style="color: #00ccff">Indomitable Champion</span> (HotFL)</strong> - Essentially an expansion of the Demigod chassis, this ED offers some hefty extra HP and a bonus to NAD's, in addition to some neat defensive abilities and the traditional double stat boost.</p><p></p><p><strong><span style="color: #00ccff">Keeper of the Everflow</span> (HoS)</strong> - A quality ED, it gives an ability score bump along with a variety of effects you can mix-and-match to fit the situation (and there's a good straight standby effect you can rock, too).</p><p></p><p>Legendary Sovereign (MP 2) - This is an ED better suited for Paladins and Warlords than you, but you can still make use of it. It has a solid revival feature, and Sword of Kings is very nice to have.</p><p></p><p><span style="color: #0000ff">Martial Archetype</span> (MP) - Really conditional entry pre-requisites, but you get some nice stuff out of it if you're looking to diversify what you can accomplish with the Martial power source. It actually has a couple of tricks you can pull with it (mostly mixing Rogue and Ranger minor action attacks) that make it quite formidable.</p><p></p><p>Prince of Hell (D 372) - Decent offensive and movement powers (teleportation with free damage? Tasty...). Not the worst idea, though the attribute bonus is garbage for you.</p><p><span style="color: #0000ff"></span></p><p><span style="color: #0000ff">Punisher of the Gods</span> (D 372) - It can only target one opponent, but that's mostly what you're about anyway, and it does grant you the actions to beat that enemy senseless in short order.</p><p></p><p><span style="color: #0000ff">Prison of the Winds</span> (D 371) - This is a Ranged Ranger Epic Destiny, but man is it a good one. It meshes extremely well with Archers (especially ones that pick Constitution over Wisdom) with attribute boosts and powers that let you play your "move-and-shoot game" with impunity. Nice.</p><p></p><p><span style="color: #0000ff">Raven Knight</span> (D 380) - While I would only recommend this option for Ranged Rangers, I recommend it very strongly. The attribute bonuses match up well with them, the abilities are arguably better than Demigod (at least on the offensive end), and their Daily power is a sweet damage-buffing rider. An excellent choice.</p><p><span style="color: #0000ff"></span></p><p><span style="color: #0000ff">Reborn Champion</span> (D 365) - If it weren't for the fact that this doesn't provide you with the increased competence ability score buffs bring, it would be very competitive with Demigod, Chosen, and the rest of the big boys. As it is, it's good, but just too backloaded.</p><p></p><p>Star-Favored Champion (MP 2) - The features are pretty solid, especially the automatic 20 on any save, and the "basic attack as a minor if you miss" one. Sign of Hope is very underwhelming, though.</p></blockquote><p></p>
[QUOTE="Veep, post: 6707664, member: 6793297"] [B][CENTER][SIZE=5]Paragon Paths: Masters of the Hunt[/SIZE][/CENTER][/B] Rangers are blessed with a pretty good selection of Paragon Paths, many of whom have an offensive outlook, which is what you should be looking for. If you're looking for Paragon Paths that other classes have to offer, the Multiclass section is where you'll find them. [b]Ranger Paragon Paths[/b] [COLOR=#800080]Arena Champion[/COLOR] (D 368) - A nice revival feature and a decent AP benefit, but that's where the fun ends for this Path. The attack powers suck (basically augments to your Melee Basic Attack), and the attack buff feature is not worth burning a Standard Action for it (who uses total defense with any kind of regularity?). Rangers are also not truly able to exploit the freebie attacks from feinting this path offers. Not a bad Path, but not a good match. Avalanche Hurler (MP) - Thrown Weapon Rangers aren't the stereotypical Ranger, but this path is a pretty decent incentive to make one. A die size increase while throwing leans you in favor of Ranged over Melee, but the whole point behind the path is versatility. The powers aren't the greatest thing since sliced bread, but Quick-Draw Trick is cool (and it's always available). [COLOR=#00ccff]Battlefield Archer[/COLOR] (PHB) - A mighty Paragon Path for any Archer, this offers an attack bonus for your whole party, the ability to Quarry multiple targets, and what amounts to an Action Point every encounter with its Utility power. The attack powers are also decent, especially the Encounter one. Basically the only reason to select Archery Style. [COLOR=#ff0000]Beast Stalker[/COLOR] (PHB) - If the Battlefield Archer is a credit to the Archery Style, this is an insult. The AP feature is basically the only thing worth a damn about this Path. [COLOR=#0000ff]Blade Dancer[/COLOR] (MP) - This path is interesting in that it takes a defensive outlook (which is kind of weird considering the very offensive bent of the Ranger). It also prefers Heavy Blades and/or Light Blades. The features are pretty solid, though, as are the powers, with a [COLOR=#ff9900]mindblowingly good[/COLOR] Encounter attack power as the highlight. A very good path, and certainly [COLOR=#00ccff][b]excellent[/b][/COLOR] for the right Ranger. [COLOR=#0000ff]Darkstrider[/COLOR] (MP 2) - This path likes getting the drop on enemies and whacking them hard. To that end, you get bonuses to damage when they're not looking and blindsight. This is only a real option for Ranged Rangers because of the MAD it would afflict a Melee character with, and it's extra tasty for a Beastmaster Archer who can stand still and shoot while hiding. A bit of a niche path, but still very effective with the proper setup. [COLOR=#800080]Feral Spirit[/COLOR] (MP) - The universal Beastmaster Paragon Path, it suffers from many of the weakness that plague the build itself. The features are uninspired, the powers are weak, and nothing really balances that out to an extent where it's worth making this an option. Giantslayer (MP) - Considering that most enemies will be Large or larger, this PP's additional effects will actually see plenty of play, so I'd put that worry to rest. That being said, the features are unimpressive, unless you're getting grabbed all the time and you love to provoke OA's. The Daily power stuns, but that's about the end for you. It's OK overall. [COLOR=#0000ff]Harrowing Swarm Archer[/COLOR] (MP 2) - A Paragon Path that keys off of ongoing damage. This is kind of feat-intensive (you need Bleeding Precision and Harrowing Swarm Student in additional to the usual bells and whistles an Archer carries), but it has potential, especially if you have a bit of luck and can keep the effects on without having to put too much investment into failed saves. [b][COLOR=#800080]Herald of Madness[/COLOR] (D 394)[/b] - As the name (and fluff) implies, this Path is all over the place. I don't consider it to be much of a fit on a Ranger, though. [COLOR=#800080]High Forest Scout[/COLOR] (FRPG) - A lackluster Ranged PP, compared to what is available. To be honest, it feels like a rough draft of the Sylvan Archer, and it might have been just that. [COLOR=#800080]Horizon Walker[/COLOR] (MP) - Though this PP may have been part of the Apocalypse Twins combo once upon a time, it's not that hot for actual Rangers (Standard Action single attack powers and conditional features? WHY?!). Huntmaster (MP 2) - I'm not the biggest fan of the Hunting Spear style, but it can't be denied that the features for L11 are rock-solid (+2 to hit vs. your Quarry, and +1/2 level to damage on an AP). Everything else about the path is pretty mediocre IMHO, though, unless you feel like subbing in for your Defender and slapping on a perma-mark on your Quarry. This Path is a heck of a lot better on Hybrid Ranger|Defenders than it is for pure Rangers. Impilturan Demonslayer (FRPG) - Though they only work at maximum effect against demons (and boy, are they awesome against them), this PP's abilities are very solid against everyone. Unfortunately, demons aren't a bread-and-butter enemy in most campaigns, at least not until Epic Tier. [COLOR=#0000ff]Lone Wolf[/COLOR] (MP 2) - This Paragon Path focuses on making you a better 1-on-1 Fighter. The major perk is the +2 to hit against enemies you isolate, though a feature to help you do that and a decent shifting power aren't bad either (the attack powers kind of suck, though). [b][COLOR=#800080]Ocular Adept[/COLOR] (D 394)[/b] - A sweet Daily power keeps this Path from being too weak, but even then most of the material in it just doesn't jive with what the average Ranger is attempting to achieve. Pack Runner (MP) - Decent overall abilities and powers for Wolf Beastmasters, though it loses a bit of utility at Epic, when you can and should be spending your minor actions on free Beast attacks instead of shifting about for +1 to hit. [COLOR=#00ccff]Pathfinder[/COLOR] (PHB) - This Paragon Path injects some Defender into your Ranger, handing him a very strong and permanent source of THP and some powers that involve stickiness and staying upright. It also provides a sweet action advantage benefit on an AP, which can be used for nova muscle if you so choose. It doesn't outright say that it helps you deal more damage, but its features add up such that you end up doing more damage. Highly recommended. [COLOR=#800080]Reaving Axe Savant[/COLOR] (MP 2) - This path basically centers around imposing conditions and taking advantage of them, such as prone, immobilized, and the like. Status effects aren't exactly your forte, so this PP is not all that, and the style doesn't key off your favored attribute. [COLOR=#0000ff]Ruthless Punisher[/COLOR] (MP) - Since humanoid foes are common, specializing in them is not off-base. The fact that it offers a Wisdom-based boost to your damage and your ongoing damage as well as some very solid powers make this a very strong Paragon Path, and it's definitely the Path of choice for Bleeder builds. [COLOR=#0000ff]Sharpshooter[/COLOR] (MP) - A free RBA when you begin your AP sequence is a formidable (and rare) feature among Ranged-heavy Paragon Paths, but one of its great tricks (combining with Beast Protector to give you a chance at OAs at range) is no more. Still good thanks to the AP feature and a decent self-buff Utility, but nothing to slobber over. Shinaelestran Guardian (MP 2) - It has two very good features at Level 11, but the L16 one is very underwhelming. It also has one awesome Utility power and some decent attack powers. I think it's solid, but it lacks the one defining thing that would make you want to take it IMHO. [COLOR=#00ccff]Stormwarden[/COLOR] (PHB) - One of the heavyweights in the DPR business, the Stormwarden has two automatic damage class features and a strong stance power to dish out consistently high damage. The attack powers are nothing special (multitargeting...), but they're not bad, and the Daily at least attacks twice in that close burst. [COLOR=#0000ff]Snow Tiger[/COLOR] (MP 2) - This is a path focused wielding light weapons, such as Daggers and Kukri. The AP benefit is cool, and some decent powers to boot. Not a bad path at all. [COLOR=#800080]Wildcat Stalker[/COLOR] (MP) - This Paragon Path is about as conditional as they come; the only feature that is fairly universal is at Level 16. The powers are similarly mediocre. To boot, the Beast you have to pick to use this path blows, too. Not a good pick. [COLOR=#800080]Wyrm Hunter[/COLOR] (D 369) - The features are conditional to Dragons (duh), and the powers aren’t multiattacks. Lame overall. [b]Racial Paragon Paths[/b] Here, I'll be marking the race that corresponds to the Path along with the source. We'll only be concerning ourselves with the recommended Paragon Paths here, that is to say, those rated [b]Black[/b] or higher. If it's not on the list and it's in my sources, it's not a good idea. [COLOR=#00ccff]Adroit Explorer[/COLOR] (Human - PHB 2) - This Paragon Path offers 2 big features that Rangers would be interested in - the first is a reload of a very good or even great Encounter power, the next is more Action Points to be going nova more often (or even burn them both in a super-nova type of turn). [COLOR=#0000ff]Blade Banshee[/COLOR] (Eladrin - MP) - The features are nice overall (+Wis to damage ftw!). The powers all require a Longsword (boo), but they're pretty solid. The outlook of the Path's powers (AoE's, status effects) is more suited to a Controller or a Defender than it is for a Striker, though. Blade of Cendriane (Eladrin - MOTP) - Surprise! Another Eladrin Ranger Paragon Path. The teleporting focus makes it better for a Swordmage than it is for you, though you get some use out of it since you have Fey Step and can you dual-wield Longswords (plus, every power the Path provides has the Teleportation keyword). [COLOR=#0000ff]Bloodfury Hunter[/COLOR] (Shifter - MP 2) - A Shifter Paragon Path with some serious power-ups for the Shifting power (with Longtooth Shifting, you get +2 to hit and your Wis+2 to damage). You also get your Wisdom again on an AP. The attack powers are pretty lame, but it's still a pretty cool Path overall. Just make sure you get bloodied a lot. Bloodfury Savage (Half-Orc - PHB 2) - The stat synergy is awesome (Str and Dex ftw), the features are nothing to write home about (speed, rerolling Intimidate checks, and resist all?), but the powers offer plenty of damage bonuses (too bad, because they're only single-swing attacks...). Average overall IMHO. [b][COLOR=#0000ff]Mithral Arm[/COLOR] (Dragonborn - D 385)[/b] - The Dragonborn's version of the Adroit Explorer, it also has a nice suite of power recovery toys, as well as some healing and defense to round it out. A pretty good pick. [COLOR=#0000ff]Sylvan Archer[/COLOR] (Elf - MP) - While this class-race specific path has some features and powers that are pretty cool (including one that amounts to a second use of Disruptive Strike), some of them stink up the place (negating cover on an AP and +2 to Perception? Really?). Not as good as Battlefield Archer or Sharpshooter because of that, but a good choice overall. [b]Dragonmarked Paragon Paths (EPG)[/b] Again, we will only concern ourselves with Paths that would make you an effective Ranger. I also note the expected (note: not required) race for the Path, as well as the Dragonmark Feat you have to take to gain access. [COLOR=#0000ff]Lyrandar Wind-Rider[/COLOR] (Half-Elf, Mark of Storm) - The powers are at best marginally useful to you (you'd need Implements and a Dex/Con Archer build to make them truly worthwhile), but +1 to hit and +Con to damage for dealing lightning damage is one heck of an incentive, plus a Utility power that grants flight can certainly be useful. [COLOR=#0000ff]Tharashk Wayfinder[/COLOR] (Half-Orc, Mark of Finding) - While I'm not a fan of the Encounter attack power, the rest of the Paragon Path is a solid fit for an Archer Ranger who is dedicated to not letting enemies get too close. The free Combat Advantage lets you pick an enchantment other than Frost, and the Daily can be a solid setup for a nova. [COLOR=#0000ff]Vadalis Griffonmaster[/COLOR] (Human, Mark of Handling) - Easily the best Beastmaster-oriented Paragon Path out there. The Vadalis-bred Griffon is an awesome companion (and a mount) that can FLY and take you with it, while featuring a great array of attack, defense, and HP, and the path's powers are pretty good (though I'm not too keen on the Daily attack power, and the L16 feature is plain). [B][CENTER][SIZE=5]Epic Destinies: Legends of the Hunt [/SIZE][/CENTER][/B] [b]Ranger Epic Destinies[/b] As is the norm, we'll only talk about Epic Destinies worth having (Black or higher) here. Beastlord (MP) - This path is one of the few perks Beastmaster Rangers get to enjoy, with effective immortality as a capstone if you play it smart. [COLOR=#0000ff]Champion of Prophecy[/COLOR] (EPG) - Pretty similar to Demigod, but with an emphasis on milestones. Not quite as good IMHO, but that's a high standard to meet. [COLOR=#00ccff]Chosen[/COLOR] (FRPG) - Pretty similar to Demigod overall, and can be even better if you find a Utility power you like more than Divine Regeneration. Darklord (D 372) - So... you wanna be the Grim Reaper? All things aside, this is a pretty strong ED. I don't like the lack of ability score boosts, and rituals will likely be covered by another party member, but reviving people you drop has potential. [COLOR=#0000ff]Deadly Trickster[/COLOR] (PHB) - This is a nice choice for Archers and other Dexterity-based Rangers, especially because of the rerolls. Not burning a power when you roll 18+ is sweet, too. [COLOR=#00ccff]Demigod[/COLOR] (PHB) - Still arguably the best Epic Destiny for any character, and you are no exception, especially if you're not in heavy armor. [b][COLOR=#00ccff]Destined Scion[/COLOR] (HotFK)[/b] - Another off-shoot from the Demigod tree, a straight-up attack and save bonus along with the two ability score bonuses make it a strong choice. [COLOR=#00ccff]Eternal Seeker[/COLOR] (PHB) - The mix-and-matching part is very appealing, and it only gets better as more material is released. Right now, it's looking very impressive overall. Free Soul (D 376) - A decent slippery ED for Revenants. [COLOR=#0000ff]Godhunter[/COLOR] (MP) - Since most of the capstone enemies you will be facing at Epic tier will be higher level than you, these features are very strong. Harper of Legend (D 367) - Not a bad choice for an ED, but there are better candidates. [b][COLOR=#00ccff]Heir of Siberys[/COLOR] (D 388)[/b] - A branch off the Demigod ED tree, this one offers a variety of effects to choose from as a Utility power. The powers for Finding, Handling, Scribing, and Shadow look particularly promising for a Ranger. [b][COLOR=#00ccff]Hordemaster[/COLOR] (DSCS)[/b] - An interesting spin on the classic Demigod Epic Destiny, this one has some nice Leader-y flavor and powers you could use to good effect. [b][COLOR=#00ccff]Indomitable Champion[/COLOR] (HotFL)[/b] - Essentially an expansion of the Demigod chassis, this ED offers some hefty extra HP and a bonus to NAD's, in addition to some neat defensive abilities and the traditional double stat boost. [b][COLOR=#00ccff]Keeper of the Everflow[/COLOR] (HoS)[/b] - A quality ED, it gives an ability score bump along with a variety of effects you can mix-and-match to fit the situation (and there's a good straight standby effect you can rock, too). Legendary Sovereign (MP 2) - This is an ED better suited for Paladins and Warlords than you, but you can still make use of it. It has a solid revival feature, and Sword of Kings is very nice to have. [COLOR=#0000ff]Martial Archetype[/COLOR] (MP) - Really conditional entry pre-requisites, but you get some nice stuff out of it if you're looking to diversify what you can accomplish with the Martial power source. It actually has a couple of tricks you can pull with it (mostly mixing Rogue and Ranger minor action attacks) that make it quite formidable. Prince of Hell (D 372) - Decent offensive and movement powers (teleportation with free damage? Tasty...). Not the worst idea, though the attribute bonus is garbage for you. [COLOR=#0000ff] Punisher of the Gods[/COLOR] (D 372) - It can only target one opponent, but that's mostly what you're about anyway, and it does grant you the actions to beat that enemy senseless in short order. [COLOR=#0000ff]Prison of the Winds[/COLOR] (D 371) - This is a Ranged Ranger Epic Destiny, but man is it a good one. It meshes extremely well with Archers (especially ones that pick Constitution over Wisdom) with attribute boosts and powers that let you play your "move-and-shoot game" with impunity. Nice. [COLOR=#0000ff]Raven Knight[/COLOR] (D 380) - While I would only recommend this option for Ranged Rangers, I recommend it very strongly. The attribute bonuses match up well with them, the abilities are arguably better than Demigod (at least on the offensive end), and their Daily power is a sweet damage-buffing rider. An excellent choice. [COLOR=#0000ff] Reborn Champion[/COLOR] (D 365) - If it weren't for the fact that this doesn't provide you with the increased competence ability score buffs bring, it would be very competitive with Demigod, Chosen, and the rest of the big boys. As it is, it's good, but just too backloaded. Star-Favored Champion (MP 2) - The features are pretty solid, especially the automatic 20 on any save, and the "basic attack as a minor if you miss" one. Sign of Hope is very underwhelming, though. [/QUOTE]
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Thrill of the Hunt: The Ranger's Handbook (by lordduskblade)
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