D&D 5E The Scout Rogue - how did it work out?

[Ancalagon]

When the scout rogue came out, there seemed to be general agreement that this was a good subclass, and a very decent replacement to the ranger. Now I think that the rogue base class is so robust almost any subclass will work - heck you could play a rogue with no subclass and still be fine.

But beyond this generic "B" consensus, I haven't seen a lot of discussions. I'm wondering - so who tried it? How was it? Play experience is important!

 

[John R Davis]

The level 3rd ability has seen to be very effective. Didn't do much at high level, but the level 13 ability can very much ruin a BBEG day

 

[WayOfTheFourElements]

On another note, how smooth is the transition between rogue and scout at level three? I've always banned the scout sub-class because I worry the transformation is too jarring. On the other hand, I'd really like to be able to offer it to my players in the new world I'm creating.

 

[Ancalagon]

On another note, how smooth is the transition between rogue and scout at level three? I've always banned the scout sub-class because I worry the transformation is too jarring. On the other hand, I'd really like to be able to offer it to my players in the new world I'm creating.

Level 1-2 in 5e are... training wheels. Nothing wrong in starting at level 3 if everyone knows the rules. I perfectly know what you mean though, and it's a problem with several classes. Eldritch knight, I'm looking at you....

 

[Flamestrike]

On another note, how smooth is the transition between rogue and scout at level three? I've always banned the scout sub-class because I worry the transformation is too jarring. On the other hand, I'd really like to be able to offer it to my players in the new world I'm creating.

Levels 2 and 3 are usually hashed out in a single session.

Apprentice levels really.

 

[Haldrik]

Level 1-2 in 5e are... training wheels. Nothing wrong in starting at level 3 if everyone knows the rules. I perfectly know what you mean though, and it's a problem with several classes. Eldritch knight, I'm looking at you....

Eldritch Knight needs a level 1 Fighting Style. I recommend "Elven Chain Armor" = at-will Mage Armor, plus a finesse longsword. Additionally, this Elven Chain fighting style can grant an option to swap the heavy armor proficiency in exchange for a cantrip. Thus, the character can feel like an Eldritch Knight from level 1.



Is it possible to do something similar for the Scout? Give the level 1 Rogue some kind of wilderness option?

 

[WayOfTheFourElements]

I enjoy levels 1 and 2 considerably. They're the time when adventurers earn their right to call themselves heroes, when mundane threats can still terrify and tear them limb from limb. I don't see them as apprentice levels. Apprentice sounds to safe and cuddly. I see them more as a rite of passage: earn your sub-class or die trying.

On another note, I've modified the XP tables so that each level lasts 4-5 sessions. When a character dies, the new character comes in at level 1 (though quickly rises in level)

As for the eldritch knight, I've never been bothered by the transition. Usually a character takes Arcana as a skill and has a decent Int, which represents previous magical training.

 

[WayOfTheFourElements]

Is it possible to do something similar for the Scout? Give the level 1 Rogue some kind of wilderness option?

I worry most about the survivalist ability:

Survivalist​

When you choose this archetype at 3rd level, you gain proficiency in the Nature and Survival skills if you don't already have it. Your proficiency bonus is doubled for any ability check you make that uses either of those proficiencies.​

I feel like it punishes players who take Nature and Survival as skills at first level or suddenly grants them expertise at 3rd.

 

[Ancalagon]

I enjoy levels 1 and 2 considerably. They're the time when adventurers earn their right to call themselves heroes, when mundane threats can still terrify and tear them limb from limb. I don't seem them as apprentice level. Apprentice sounds to safe and cuddly. I see them more as a rite of passage for each character: earn your sub-class or die trying.

On another note, I've modified the XP tables so that each level lasts 4-5 sessions. When a player dies, the new character comes in at level 1 (though quickly rises in level)

As for the eldritch knight, I've never been bothered by the transition. Usually a character takes Arcana as a skill and has a decent Int, which represents previous magical training.

See to me that stuff can be in your character bio/history... but hey, if you want to play it that way, it's just as valid!
Perhaps for the scout part of those early adventures would have to be in the wood?

 

[WayOfTheFourElements]

See to me that stuff can be in your character bio/history... but hey, if you want to play it that way, it's just as valid!
Perhaps for the scout part of those early adventures would have to be in the wood?

Except most of my players don't plan out which sub-class they want to choose until their characters hit 3rd level (as most don't read English very well). I could try asking players who want to play a scout to declare their intention at first level, though. Maybe that would work.