Fixing the paladin

[Kzach]

Ok, first let me get one thing out of the way. This is not a thread asking if you think the paladin needs fixing. If you don't think it needs fixing, find another thread in which to express this opinion. I am not looking for argument on the matter, I'm looking for constructive input into ways in which to alter the class so that it works in a manner that satisfies my perception of it.

So, with that out of the way, let me state what I feel is the problem with paladins. Partially it's a MAD issue that I feel they have. The other, albeit MAD-related, is that unlike most other classes, focusing on one main stat with a secondary modifier stat, doesn't really work.

Another issue is one of perception. I perceive the paladin in a certain light, that being a strong warrior that is divinely blessed. I just don't get that feeling from the paladin as written. In fact, I feel that the cleric does a better job, all-round, of representing a paladin than the paladin class does, albeit deficient in the armour and weapons category.

Ultimately, I'd like to rewrite the paladin from the ground-up. However, for that I need to identify just what it is that a paladin should be and how to best represent that in the 4e system. And for that, I feel it would be helpful to pick apart and examine the current paladin and identify the areas in which it fails, and why it is that it fails.

This is where y'all come in...

 

[Kzach]

Surely there is someone who can contribute something?

 

[Stalker0]

Ok, first let me get one thing out of the way. This is not a thread asking if you think the paladin needs fixing. If you don't think it needs fixing, find another thread in which to express this opinion.

Perhaps most people simply feel the paladin is fine, and have politely followed your instructions about not posting a contradictory opinion to yours.

 

[Greja]

The current paladin defends a group by issuing divine challanges, taking beats, healing friends, and performing actions of faith based on something other than spells.
What did you see the paladin as? People will need more guidance to see what you were looking for.

Should he be a high strength based character focusing more on smiting evil in a crusader style? Did you envision more of an aura based paladin (ala diablo or Dragonshaman)? Do you see the paladin as a Defender, a Leader, or a Striker?

 

[dammitbiscuit]

I am replying to your post without posting the contradictory opinions that you do not wish to hear.

 

[Kzach]

Perhaps most people simply feel the paladin is fine, and have politely followed your instructions about not posting a contradictory opinion to yours.

Eh, I didn't think that would be required given the dozens of threads I've seen since 4e's release complaining about the MAD paladin.

 

[Praesul]

Have you played a paladin in a session yet, or is your opinion based off just having read over the class? My first suggestion to you, if you haven't done this, is to go roll one up as best as you can to your perceived image of a paladin and then try it in at least a couple sessions. After having done that, come back here and tell us exactly what it is that the paladin *doesn't* do.

I've played the paladin as is, and I'm not trying to break your request, but I don't see the issue. Try it out and see if you still think the MAD is as serious of an issue as you are suggesting.

 

[Exen Trik]

Could you be more specific as to what you're going for here? All you've said is you don't like MAD and it's not your idea of a holy warrior, it's not really much to go on.

 

[Kzach]

Here's what I'm working on: http://kzach.wikidot.com/local--files/miscellaneous/knight.pdf

 

[seusomon]

What does MAD stand for?