Here Come The PRESTIGE CLASSES! Plus Rune Magic!

Mike Mearls' latest Unearthed Arcana column presents the first ever 5E prestige class: the Rune Scribe! "Prestige classes build on the game’s broad range of basic options to represent specialized options and unique training. The first of those specialized options for fifth edition D&D is the rune scribe—a character who masters ancient sigils that embody the fundamental magic of creation."

It's a 5-level class, and also contains the basic information on how prestige classes work and how to join them - including ability, skill, level, and task-based prerequisites. Find it here.

 

[GMforPowergamers]

I have gone through many 3e prestige classes (Rokugan mostly), and I suggest you consider at least 3 options for conversion:

- subclasses
- feats
- prestige classes

Each of these solution has pros and cons. Every 3e prestige class is different, many of them were practically empty shells with but a few abilities. IMHO it is necessary to get rid of those empty levels, and most of the times a feat is enough. For those times when it's not, either use a subclass (if you want it to be available to just one base class) or a prestige class (if you want it available to multiple base classes).

I agree I liked the playtest arcane archer feat (wish it was updated) and I like the assassin subclass...

 

[mellored]

Nice. Just how i would do it.

5 levels, RP specific requirements, RP abilities.

 

[Remathilis]

I think we found how to do warlords and artificers...

 

[GMforPowergamers]

I think we found how to do warlords and artificers...

yup... give a 5 level dip that grants some small flavor... I like the idea

 

[TwoSix]

I like that the prestige class requires the PC find someone to teach them the new class. It's a great way for the DM to control the rarity of certain classes in the game.

I am 100% sure that feature will always be retained and never dropped for expedience in the creation of future Prestige Classes. I repeat, 100%.

 

[mellored]

Balance...

You get a cantrip, a passive, and a low level spell, at the cost of both class levels and your magic item attunement. But don't need concentration.

Seems ok, maybe slightly on the weak side.

 

[TerraDave]

Looks pretty cool, but can someone give a short summary of how rune magic actually works. Thanks.

 

[Galendril]

I am 100% sure that feature will always be retained and never dropped for expedience in the creation of future Prestige Classes. I repeat, 100%.

Sarcasm?

 

[GMforPowergamers]

the first thing I want to make is a sacred maryter that gives his own energy to heal... 1/2 level casting and 3d4 each level as HD first ability he gets is to touch a creature and spend a HD, instead of rolling 1d4 you roll 1d6 and that creature heals that much... increase to 1d8 at 5th level...

 

[lowkey13]

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