I'm not a fan of PRCs, so I'm probably not the best person to ask about the PRCs.
The new classes are ok.
The Swashbuckler is interesting. In a way, it could be the drow version of a fighter class. Fighter BAB, saves, hit points. 4 skill points per level. martial weapon proficiency. light armor proficiency. Instead of fighter bonus feats, get various bonuses and special abilities. Free Weapon Finesse at 1st level. At 3rd level and higher, intelligence bonus is applied to damage. Acrobatics.
The Samurai has fighter BAB, saves, hit points. 2 skill points per level. martial weapon proficincy and heavy armor profiency. various bonuses (two weapon fighter and fear type bonuses and some ki smites).
The Hexblade has fighter BAB, hit points, and good will save (bad fort save). 2 skill points per level. non-good only. Minor spellcasting (comparable to Ranger or Paladin) based on charisma.
The new classes are good for what they are supposed to be. They are also balanced. The core classes (Fighter, Ranger, Rogue, etc.) are more powerful than these new classes because of their greater flexibility. These classes, though, give you everything you need to play a Samurai or a Swashbuckler. Particularly if you are playing a skills-oriented campaign, where the Fighter class might not have the skills you desire.
Brother Shatterstone said:
How do you like the new classes in that?