Prestige Class -- Multi-classing?

[Zoombaba]

This might be a dumb question, but do you treat Prestige Classes like traditional multi-classing with the traditional experience penalties? I can't seem to find an answer in the DMG.

The specific case is: I've got an 8th level half-orc fighter who wants to jump to the prestige class Fist of Hexor from the supplement Sword and Fist. Since his class is not preferred (or favored, can't remember what it's called) class for half-orcs, does that mean he'll get the 20% experience penalty for going into a Prestige Class?

It seems that Prestige Classes should be immune to this penalty but I can't find any reference for or against.

Thanks,
Zoombaba

 

[kreynolds]

do you treat Prestige Classes like traditional multi-classing with the traditional experience penalties?

No.

From the DnD FAQ, page 9...

Can you take levels in more than one prestige class? How do all these levels affect your experience?
You can take any number of prestige classes, provided that you qualify for them. Prestige classes do not impose multiclass experience penalties (see previous question), no matter how many prestige classes you have.

 

[Ranger REG]

PAGE REFERENCE...

Dungeon Master's Guide, page 27, column 1, PRESTIGE CLASS heading, paragraph 2, sentence 3:

Assassins and loremasters are among the many types of prestige classes. Characters who qualify can choose a prestige class as a mutliclass to pick up as they advance in level. Taking a prestige class does not incur the experience point penalties normally associated with multiclassing.

 

[kreynolds]

This might be a dumb question

By the way, there's no such thing as a "dumb question" here, unless you're asking whether or not Mind Blank negates True Strike.

 

[kreynolds]

Re: PAGE REFERENCE...

Dungeon Master's Guide, page 27, column 1, PRESTIGE CLASS heading, paragraph 2, sentence 3:

I think it's really cute that they put that quote in the DMG where the players won't see it. Very amusing.

 

[Ranger REG]

Well, it's in the right place, under the "PRESTIGE CLASS" heading. But I agree with you. They could have reword it, or reformat (i.e., put in a separate paragraph). The layout leaves much to be desired.

Why do you think we keep seeing questions such as "how do you resolve grappling"?

 

[kreynolds]

Well, it's in the right place, under the "PRESTIGE CLASS" heading.

Sure, it's in the right place in the DMG, but it's not in the PH at all. Hell, the rules regarding multiclassing are even in the PH at the end of the Classes section, but it's never mentioned. Although, in their defense, the PH doesn't include Prestige Classes, so technically, that info isn't necessary, even though WotC obviously intended players to take prestige classes. After all, that means more money.

But I agree with you. They could have reword it, or reformat (i.e., put in a separate paragraph). The layout leaves much to be desired.

Rewording it or reformating the layout doesn't help, since it's not in the PH in the first place, which it should be.

Why do you think we keep seeing questions such as "how do you resolve grappling"?

LOL

 

[Mustrum_Ridcully]

This seems also to imply, that it is the job of the DM to decide if a character can finally get a prestige class or if a certain class exists. So, the players ask: "I want to do X, but none of the classes seems to be able to do this the way I want! Is there a PRC for it?"
"Well, remind me next week, and I will see if I have something for you..."

Mustrum Ridcully

 

[Macbrea]

Prestige classes have always been at the DMs approval. They are their as special classes within the world. The reason they choose to put the full rules for them in the DMG is because players are suppose to be offered to join them or allowed by the DM.


Allowing every prestige class without question can sometimes be alittle silly. Some of them just mix very badly, balance wise. Personally, I think they should have all been something offered to characters as a reward or part of a subplot for that character.

 

[Mahiro Satsu]

Prestige classes are wonderful and powerful, but they are like joining an exculsive club. The key word there is EXCLUSIVE. As such, the DM should have final say whether or not players can join them. Now, if only I could remind my players of that...