Surprise and Rogues

[Particle_Man]

I think that the conflict between 267 (being surprised means take no actions, not even free actions) and 277 (being surprised means take no actions except free actions) should be decided in favour of p. 267.

Because otherwise the Rogue's First Strike ability becomes useless, as described on p. 117, since free actions can be taken during other combatants' turns.

Witness the horror:

"I am surprised? I use my free action during the Rogue's turn to say "Now that I have acted by saying these words, you can't use first strike against me. Ha ha!""

 

[reff42]

Well, RaW, yes, they can do that. However, any DM worth his salt should not employ or allow that idiotic tactic.

In addition, ANY creature during a surprise round gains combat advantage against those that don't act during the surprise round. The rouge's first strike is for the next round or engagements that neither side has surprise. (makes you want to take Improved Initiative and Quick draw doesn't it?)

 

[Mouseferatu]

(makes you want to take Improved Initiative and Quick draw doesn't it?)

Well, one or the other, since they don't stack. But yes, either is a great feat for rogues.

 

[Oompa]

You can take both, only you wont get the +2 from the quick draw, but the other benefit the feat has you still apply..

 

[Mouseferatu]

You can take both, only you wont get the +2 from the quick draw, but the other benefit the feat has you still apply..

Oh, sure. I just meant the Init bonuses don't stack, so it's not as attractive an option to take both.