Does the 3e Ranger stink (as is)?

[Steverooo]

Re: Could be better...

The ranger can actually hit things in combat. A rogue has a lot harder time hitting. The sneak attack bonus damage only helps if you actually hit.

The first level Rogue actually hits BETTER than the first level Ranger with the same stats!

Rogue: +0 BAB.

Ranger: +1 BAB, -2/-2 for Ambi/TWF with light off-hand weapon, -6/-4 with non-light.

So the Rogue hits better; more often AND with +1D6 damage!

 

[Steverooo]

Rangers: Will have a caster level of class level –3 instead of ½ caster level.

That was my first thought, too, but I later realized that it was too slow... Ranger level - 2 is better. Here's why:

CL 2 is where he starts, now (RL 4/2 = 2).

Animal Friendship - at CL 1, (RL 4 - 3), he can't even befriend his 2 HD warhorse. At CL 2, he can.

Alarm - CL 2 = four hours (enough for an Elf to Trance, or a Human to trade watch shifts). CL 1 = 2 hours.

Summon Nature's Ally I - Almost worthless, as is, CL 1 gives you one round of attacks. CL 2 gives you two rounds, at least. (Basically, this spell is only good for the flanking bonus, anyway!)