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<blockquote data-quote="Fanaelialae" data-source="post: 6544425" data-attributes="member: 53980">After reading this thread, here's my proposed improvement to the Beast Master:This is based on the proposed idea that the beast could function as an off-hand attack. Since it doesn't benefit from proficiency, it's roughly on par with an off-hand attack (at least until you get Bestial Fury, at which point you have a superior option). The reason it requires a free hand is to balance it with dual wielding. If a ranger can effectively dual wield with a greatsword and a wolf, that might be a bit strong. Admittedly, you can't use this and cast Hunter's Mark in the same turn, but you can either cast Mark first and use Quick Attack in subsequent rounds, or hope the Quick Attack hits since the damage will likely be more than the 1d6 Mark is worth.This is to address those who might want multiple companions. Arguably not as strong as a single companion, but what you give up in power you might make up in versatility.It's tricky trying to balance a companion that can be larger than medium and higher than CR 1/4, because they often get damage enhancing abilities like multiattack. I used the Giant Poisonous Snake as a base line, since it's available to RAW Beast Masters and it has excellent stats and damage. By limiting the proficiency bonus, I brought the damage down to around what the CR 1/4s can do. Because that also brings down their AC, I granted them additional hp to help make up for it.</blockquote>

[QUOTE="Fanaelialae, post: 6544425, member: 53980"] After reading this thread, here's my proposed improvement to the Beast Master: This is based on the proposed idea that the beast could function as an off-hand attack. Since it doesn't benefit from proficiency, it's roughly on par with an off-hand attack (at least until you get Bestial Fury, at which point you have a superior option). The reason it requires a free hand is to balance it with dual wielding. If a ranger can effectively dual wield with a greatsword and a wolf, that might be a bit strong. Admittedly, you can't use this and cast Hunter's Mark in the same turn, but you can either cast Mark first and use Quick Attack in subsequent rounds, or hope the Quick Attack hits since the damage will likely be more than the 1d6 Mark is worth. This is to address those who might want multiple companions. Arguably not as strong as a single companion, but what you give up in power you might make up in versatility. It's tricky trying to balance a companion that can be larger than medium and higher than CR 1/4, because they often get damage enhancing abilities like multiattack. I used the Giant Poisonous Snake as a base line, since it's available to RAW Beast Masters and it has excellent stats and damage. By limiting the proficiency bonus, I brought the damage down to around what the CR 1/4s can do. Because that also brings down their AC, I granted them additional hp to help make up for it. [/QUOTE]

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