Class based around Use Rope?

[KrazyHades]

One of my players REALLY wants to have a very focused base class (to make a 4th lvl character from) focusing on the oft-neglected Use Rope skill. He's seen how powerful the skill is in the hands of an innovative player, and wants to take that to the next level. My question is, are there any pre-existing classes that do this? I will end up whipping up a class and post it in the Rules forum for critique, but first I want to know what's already out there.

 

[Thunderfoot]

I don't think the class 'Boy Scout' has been invented. (As a Scout leader that would the only one I can think of)

However, if the player has seen the use of the skill and noticed how innovative it can be, then have him/her look into the classes that use the skill and make it a character focus, not a class focus. For instance, the Ranger of Rogue are both skill point heavy and have Rope Use. Instead of focusing on the proto-typical Aragorn adn Thief aspects, have him think of things that might fall in that category and pattern the role play after it.

For example Rogue, Circus Performer, Escape Artist. The Rogue focuses skill in both Escape Artist and Rope Use. He is very adept at both the tying and untying of complex knots and recieves sygergy bonuses when using either skill with the other - create a Feat called Escape Artist and require him to take it to explain the synergy.

Or one with Rope Use and Craft(trap making) - this rogue (or ranger) is an expert trapper, raised in the woods (or whatever terrain) trapping fur bearing animals. Was approached to help apprehend a rather elusive criminal, upon his capture the character sensed a new direction in his life and become a trap focused bounty hunter.

Creating a class specifically for Rope Use (or any single skill for that matter) is probably doomed to fail (IMO), but using existing classes in ways that are outside of the norm as a template for something new (and the rogue and ranger are just ripe for the plucking in that regard) is probably going to reap much better rewards and role playing experiences for your player.

My 2 coppers,
Happy Gaming.

 

[Nyaricus]

Creating a class specifically for Rope Use (or any single skill for that matter) is probably doomed to fail (IMO)

Except diplomacy man. Under the current rules, it's disgusting what one can do by even 3rd level.

cheers,
--N

 

[KrazyHades]

Nice points there. I think he's also going to use a silken rope with a grappling hook as a weapon (rule-wise, it will function as a whip or a dagger and chain) and use ropes do, say, scale walls, tie people up, create traps such as triplines, and swing from the chandelier to dive into the midst of his opponents. He is being very creative in coming up with ways to use the skill (including the ones I just listed). Maybe, instead of making a class, I'll make some nice feats. Suggestions for feats?

 

[kolikeos]

i know there is a PrC in complete warrior that can bind opponents during grapple with the use rope skill.

 

[Master of the Game]

There was a race called the Ramen in the Chronicles of Thomas Covenant that used a length of rope as a weapon. I've always thought it was a neat idea. Too bad I haven't read the books in nearly 20 years, I just don't remember enough about them

 

[QuaziquestGM]

My gag reflex is to mention that I didn't see much of that in Nymphology or Quintisential Temptrest....Maybe you should check an Anime d20 or D20 Modern Oriental suppliment....

 

[QuaziquestGM]

Seriously, you might look in the western books. There may be a rodeo showoff type prestige class.

 

[Festivus]

The rodeo thing was what popped into my head as well. Lasso, trip and hog-tie opponents. Very innovative idea there, I'd be interested in hearing what you end up with on this.

 

[Thunderfoot]

Trip feats, skill synergies (as I mentioned before), a couple of exotic weapons feats (grappling hook for eaxmple) /As a side bar, there is an oriental weapon called the Kawanaga, it is usually a straight sectioned chain connected to a small grapple, but any sort of rope like connection can be used (I've even seen the silk you described) Check the Oriental Adventures book if you can for more details./

Other than that, without hearing the player describe in his/her words what he/she really want to do, I'm not sure what else to suggest. Sorry.