Overhaul Changes
There isn't a lot to change in the base class. The Bard specific Bard Song is pretty powerful in NWN but to tweak it with nerfs seems unnecessary (even though the level progression gets wacky at epic levels).
There may be more opportunities to add some Bard specific feats (or 3.5E ones) of course, eg:
- Requiem - Bard song affects Undead
- Enchanting Song - Increase save and DC at cost of bard song usage
- plus a variety of others that use bard song uses but provide other effects
Overhaul Possible Updates
Having the ability to wear light armor without spell failure would be good, need to think about how best to do this. It can now be be scripted effects. Will however also affect other arcane spellcasting (ie wizard and sorcerer spells) though since it's not bard spellbook specific.
Bard Prestige classes sound good on paper but a lot of them (Eg Prestige Bard) notably have progression in feats such as Bardic Knowledge which is presently hardcoded. Given this isn't as big a deal as some things adding some of these prestige classes may help the base bard by association. Updated description.
Overhaul Description
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Bards often serve as negotiators, messengers, scouts, and spies. They love to accompany heroes (and villains) to witness heroic (or villainous) deeds firsthand, since a bard who can tell a story from personal experience earns renown among his fellows. A bard casts arcane spells without any advance preparation, much like a sorcerer. His magic emphasizes charms and illusions, and the bard can also play an inspiring song that strengthens him and his allies. Bards also share some specialized skills with rogues, and their knowledge of item lore is nearly unmatched. WARNING: To cast a spell, a bard must have a Charisma score of 10 + the spell's level. For example, to cast a 3rd-level spell, a bard must have a Charisma of 13. Standard Abilities: - Alignment Restrictions: Any nonlawful. - Hit Die: d6. - Proficiencies: Proficient with simple weapons. Also proficient with light armor, medium armor, and shields. - Skill Points (*4 at 1st level): 4 + Int Modifier. - Class Skills: Appraise, Bluff, Concentration, Craft Armor, Craft Trap, Craft Weapon, Discipline, Heal, Hide, Listen, Lore, Move Silently, Parry, Perform, Persuade, Pick Pocket, Spellcraft, Taunt, Tumble, Use Magic Device . - Primary saving throw(s): Reflex, Will. - Base attack bonus: Medium (+3/4 level). - Spellcasting: Arcane (Charisma-based, no spell preparation, spell failure from armor is a factor); Bards begin the game knowing all cantrips. - Ex-Bards: Bards cannot gain levels of experience while they are of any lawful alignment. ABILITIES: 1: Bard Song - Bards are able to sing a song that can bolster their allies. Deafened creatures are not affected by the bard's singing. The song affects all allies within 30 feet and lasts for 10 rounds. The higher the bard's final perform skill and class level, the better the bard song. Bardic Knowledge - The bard can identify items more easily than others. You add your bard levels to any Lore skill checks. EPIC LEVELS: Your music is beyond merely inspiring...it has become epic. You can move even the cruelest creature or inspire your allies to the heights of power and bravery. Hit Die: d6. Skill Points at Each Additional Level: 4 + Int Modifier. Bonus Feats: The epic bard gains a bonus feat every three levels after 20th Special: . Epic Bard Bonus Feats List: Curse Song, Epic Skill Focus, Epic Will, Great Charisma, Great Dexterity, Improved Combat Casting, Lasting Inspiration, Epic Spell Focus. |
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