An "Arcane Archer" base class (nothing like the prestige class)

[Asmor]

So I've got this idea for an "arcane archer" base class, for lack of a better term (would you prefer Magic Missiler?). Rather than casting spells, the class specializes in trick arrows. Not sure how exactly I'd implement that... Could be done as spells, infusions, invocations, manuevers, etc.

Basically I'm trying to make the class into a master of manipulating the battlefield. To that end, their trick arrows tend to focus less on damage than on things like making/negating cover, entangling people, etc.

So here's some ideas for arrows I've had. In general, they either target a space or are melee touch attacks:

Tether Arrow: Noone within 30' of where the arrow lands can move away from it. They can still move towards it, but then are stuck even closer.

Entangling Arrow: Explodes in a stick mess, a la tanglefoot bag.

Tentacle Arrow: Turns into an octopoid tentacle, grappling the target.

Blink arrow: Deals no damage, but teleports the target 30' from where they were standing (you choose where they appear). Perfect for setting up allies or screwing over enemies.

Ballistarrow: The arrow turns into a ballista bolt in midflight, dealing significantly more damage.

Bullrush arrow: Pushes target back.

Distracting arrow: Explodes in a fine dust, preventing target from making attacks of opportunity for one round.

Silencing arrow: Silences all sound for a couple rounds within 15 feet.

Grappling arrow: Firmly attaches to whereever it hits, trails a rope behind.

Oaken arrow: Sprouts into an oak tree whereever it hits (good for cover).

Darkness arrow: Creates murky darkness within 15 feet for a couple rounds.

Flare arrow: Sticks to target and glows brightly, negating miss chance from all but total concealment.

So at this point I'm almost wondering if it's not a better idea to just develop a bunch of magical arrows, since that's almost entirely what this class is based around. Then any archer would have a bunch of new tricks.

What do you all think?

 

[llamatron2000]

well, arcane archer handles it with their imbue arrow ability. Which basically does what you're trying.

So the question is....charisma, or intelligence caster?

 

[Kurashu]

I've always wondered why there are no Wisdom based arcane casters.

And why intelligence based casters MUST be prep and charisma is spontaneous (Duskblade and Beguiler aside).

Iunno something that came to my mind.


I'd model the class off the Duskblade; however, despite my lack of knowledge of them, infusions might be good as well. I don't think invocations would be good, since they are more about modifing (super)natural attacks and not weapon attacks.