UA Rogue and other variants

[sdt]

My group decided to use the UA Variant classes in our game (they are in the SRD); we occasionally run across problems with rules related to these classes. Currently, we are not sure if the Variant Rogue should be able to take the Weapon Specialization feats without fighter levels.

Are there any official rulings for UA Variant classes?

Do your groups allow UA Rogues to take this feat without fighter levels?

 

[FalcWP]

No, because the rogue doesn't meet the prerequisites:

Prerequisites

Proficiency with selected weapon, Weapon Focus with selected weapon, fighter level 4th.

The rogue gains bonus feats as a fighter, but Weapon Specialization still requires you to be a 4th level fighter. It also doesn't require that you take it with a fighter bonus feat slot (that's just the norm, since fighters get a bonus feat at level 4, when they qualify). So no, I wouldn't say the UA rogue qualifies for Weapon Specialization.

 

[Hrothgar Rannúlfr]

Here's the link to the info on this rogue variant in the d20srd.org.

The rogue who favors martial training over stealth and cunning can profit if she chooses her fights carefully.

Gain
Bonus feats (as fighter).

Lose
Sneak attack.

Other variant games (like Monte Cook's Arcana Evolved) change the pre-requisites for Weapon Specialization from fighter level 4 to other things. In AE, it becomes fighter level 4 and Truename (see AE for more info).

One possible variant (in a non-AE game) would be to change the prerequisites of Weapon Spcialization to fighter level 4th OR BAB +6. Just a thought, as it would allow a martial rogue to access Weapon Specialization, but much later than the pure fighter. This way, the pure fighter doesn't lose out in comparison to the martial rogue.

Just some thoughts...

 

[sdt]

Thanks for your opinions and info.