Best "core only" UMD build?

[Thurbane]

Hi all,

Looking at a character/NPC for my game, and I'm looking for someone who is good at Use Magic Device.

Now, I understand that Warlocks are the shizz when it comes to UMD, but this character will be for a core only game.

Basically, I'm thinking of a Bard or Rogue, max ranks in UMD, ranks in Decipher Script, Spellcraft and Knowledge (Arcana) for synergies, and the feats of Magical Aptitude and Skill Focus (UMD)...

Any thoughts or suggestions?

- T

 

[Stalker0]

Its pure core, that's about as good as you can get. You might be able to convince your dm to allow an item that gives a bonus to UMD. Normally the cost is bonus * bonus * 100 gp. There is no core item that does that, but the formula is in the dmg.

 

[Iku Rex]

A Circlet of Persuasion (+3) or a Breastplate of Command (+2) would help.

As for spells, eagle's splendor (obviously), good hope, heroism and greater heroism improve the UMD skill. (All bard spells.)

 

[Sejs]

Hi all,

Looking at a character/NPC for my game, and I'm looking for someone who is good at Use Magic Device.

Now, I understand that Warlocks are the shizz when it comes to UMD, but this character will be for a core only game.

Basically, I'm thinking of a Bard or Rogue, max ranks in UMD, ranks in Decipher Script, Spellcraft and Knowledge (Arcana) for synergies, and the feats of Magical Aptitude and Skill Focus (UMD)...

Any thoughts or suggestions?

- T

Straight bard.

Access to all the appropriate support skills and they already have the motivation to have a high charisma.

 

[frankthedm]

Straight bard.

Comment withheld.

Try a Middle aged Aasimar expert.

 

[Kurotowa]

To use UDM to the greatest effect you need Skill Mastery, and if you're going core only you'll have to do it the old fashioned way. Be a 10th level Rogue. One you can Take 10 on your UMD checks it gets a whole lot easier.

 

[Iku Rex]

To use UDM to the greatest effect you need Skill Mastery, and if you're going core only you'll have to do it the old fashioned way. Be a 10th level Rogue. One you can Take 10 on your UMD checks it gets a whole lot easier.

You can't Take 10 with UMD. Skill Master lets you Take 10 "even if stress and distractions would normally prevent [you] from doing so", but "stress and distractions" aren't why you can't normally Take 10 with UMD.

 

[frankthedm]

You can't Take 10 with UMD. Skill Master lets you Take 10 "even if stress and distractions would normally prevent [you] from doing so", but "stress and distractions" aren't why you can't normally Take 10 with UMD.

The skill itself prohibits taking 10.

 

[Iku Rex]

The skill itself prohibits taking 10.

Yes, that's what I just said.
("You can't Take 10 with UMD.")

 

[Darklone]

Straight bard.

Access to all the appropriate support skills and they already have the motivation to have a high charisma.

Think about one level of barbarian or fighter (dashing swordsman ) or two or three levels rogue to begin with, it doesn't keep you from maxxing UMD but goes a long way to help out your overall effectivity. Or perhaps a paladin/bard