Basic Class Compendium

This page serves as a reference of all the classes present in OSE. They have been sorted into six different groups, and each class should have all the information needed to create a character of that class.

In OSE, race and class are the same thing. There cannot be something like a dwarf fighter, because dwarf is itself a class that gives certain attributes and abilities.

Certain classes have [class] skills. These are skills which your class can do better than everyone else. We are using the d6 thief skills method, to simplify the process of using skills. Every skill starts at a 1-in-6 chance and can be improved by spending expertise points. Each expertise point spent to upgrade a skill makes the chances 1 better (e.g. 1-in-6 to 2-in-6). Each class starts with a certain number of expertise points to use, and gains an amount every level to upgrade these skills. Skills cannot go above 5-in-6, unless they say that they can.

A note on formatting: Each class in the following list is structured like this: [Name - (PR: [Prime Requisite]; MR [Minimum Requirement]) Description].

Class List:

• Basic Classes - These are the classes included in the classic fantasy book, the most common forms of adventurers.
• Fighter - (PR: STR) Fighters use their combat skills to battle monsters.
• Thief - (PR: DEX) Thieves use their skills of deception and stealth to steal and beguile.
• Magic-User - (PR: INT) Magic-Users use their knowledge of arcane secrets to cast powerful spells.
• Cleric - (PR: WIS) Clerics use their faith to channel the power of their deity.
• Basic Demihumans - These are the races included in the classic fantasy book, the most common peoples across the world.
• Dwarf - (PR: STR; MR: 9 CON) Dwarves use their brawny might and understanding of construction to help dungeoneering.
• Elf - (PR: INT & STR; MR: 9 INT) Elves use both fighting prowess and magical knowledge to act as a mid ground between magic-users and fighters.
• Halfling - (PR: DEX & STR; MR: 9 CON & 9 DEX) Halflings are small folk who are exceptional at hiding and using ranged weapons.
• Specialized Classes - These classes are included in the advanced book and also the Carcass Crawler magazine. They constitute more exotic classes as well as various more specific versions of the basic classes.
• Acrobat - (PR: DEX) Acrobats use their acrobatic abilities to jump large distances and fall without harm.
• Assassin - (PR: DEX) Assassins use their skills of assassination to cleanly take out targets by various means.
• Bard - (PR: CHA & DEX; MR: 9 DEX & 9 INT) Bards use their various skills and enchanting music to live freely.
• Beast Master - (PR: STR & WIS) Beast masters use their special connection with animals to fight.
• Druid - (PR: WIS) Druids use their special connection to nature to cast nature spells.
• Illusionist - (PR: INT; MR: 9 DEX) Illusionists are magic users who have learned the arcane arts of illusion and deception.
• Knight - (PR: STR; MR 9 CON & 9 DEX) Knights are fighters who serve a noble house.
• Paladin - (PR: STR & WIS; MR 9 CHA) Paladins are fighters who serve a holy order, gaining cleric turning and spells.
• Ranger - (PR: STR; MR 9 CON & 9 WIS) Rangers are fighters who serve nature, gaining druid spells and tracking abilities.
• Exotic Demihumans - These races are less common to be found than the basic races, or are some variant or specialized version of one of the basic races.
• Gnome - (PR: DEX & INT; MR: 9 CON) Gnomes are small cousins of dwarves who know the arcane art of illusion.
• Half-Elf - (PR: INT & STR; MR: 9 CHA & 9 CON) Half-Elves are the offspring of humans and elves, skilled at combat and magic.
• Half-Orc - (PR: DEX & STR) Half-Orcs are the offspring of humans and orcs, skilled at combat and thievery.
• Gargantua - (PR: CON & STR; MR: 9 CON & 9 STR) Gargantuas are hulking demihumans who are skilled at throwing rocks.
• Goblin - (PR: DEX & STR; MR: 9 DEX) Goblins are small chaotic demihumans who have a special affinity with wolves.
• Wood Elf - (PR: DEX & WIS; MR: 9 DEX & 9 INT) Wood elves are elves who forgo arcane magic for druidic magic.
• Halfling Hearthsinger - (PR: CHA & CON; MR: 9 CHA, 9 CON & 9 DEX) Hearthsingers are halflings who specialize in lore and stories.
• Halfling Reeve - (PR: CON & WIS; MR: 9 CON, 9 DEX & 9 WIS) Reeves are halflings who defend halfling settlements from goblins and wolves, taking on some ranger abilities.
• Semi-Banned Classes - These classes have odd quirks to them that makes me hesitant to allow their use in the game, but I can be swayed. The banned classes can be found in their source books, not here.
• Barbarian (Advanced Player's Handbook)
• Drow (Advanced Player's Handbook)
• Duergar (Advanced Player's Handbook)
• Svirfneblin (Advanced Player's Handbook)
• Phase Elf (Carcass Crawler #2)
• Mycelian (Carcass Crawler #3)
• Dragonborn (Carcass Crawler #3)
• Tiefling (Carcass Crawler #3)
• Banned Classes - These classes are too strange for the game, and would not fit a simple fantasy setting at all, or they are other versions of classes already on the list, therefore I am banning their usage.
• Hephaestan (Carcass Crawler #1)
• Kineticist (Carcass Crawler #1)
• Acolyte (Carcass Crawler #1)
• Mage (Carcass Crawler #1)
• Mutoid (Carcass Crawler #3)
• Arcane Bard (Carcass Crawler #4)

Fighter

Thief

Read Languages

A thief of 4th level or higher can read non-magical text in any language (including dead languages and basic codes) with 80% probability. If the roll does not succeed, the thief may not try to read that particular text again before gaining an experience level.

Scroll Use

A thief of 10th level or higher can cast arcane spells from scrolls. There is a 10% chance of error: the spell does not function as expected and creates an unusual or deleterious effect.

Thief Skills

Thieves can use the following skills:

• Climb sheer surfaces (CS): A roll is required for each 100' to be climbed. If the roll fails, the thief falls at the halfway point, suffering falling damage.
• Find or remove treasure traps (TR): A roll is required to find a treasure trap and then another to remove it. This may be attempted only once per trap.
• Hear noise (HN): In a quiet environment (e.g. not in combat), a thief may attempt to listen at a door or to hear the sounds of something (e.g. a wandering monster) approaching.
• Hide in shadows (HS): Requires the thief to be motionless; attacking or moving while hiding is not possible.
• Move silently (MS): A thief may attempt to sneak past enemies unnoticed.
• Open locks (OL): Requires thieves' tools. A thief can only try this skill once per lock. If the roll fails, the thief may not try the same lock again before gaining an experience level.
• Pick pockets (PP): The chance of success is reduced by 1-in-6 per three levels of the victim. A roll of 6 means that the attempted theft is noticed.

Base chance of success: All skills begin with a 1-in-6 chance of success.

Expertise points: Thieves gain expertise points to improve their chance of success with their skills. Each point allocated to a skill improves the chance of success by 1-in-6. Multiple points may be allocated to a skill, further increasing the chance of success. For example, if 2 points are allocated to a skill, the chance of success is raised to 3-in-6 (from the base 1-in-6 chance of success).

At 1st level: At character creation, a thief has 4 expertise points to allocate.

Gaining levels: A thief gains 2 additional expertise points to allocate.

Maximum chance of success: No skill may be raised above 5-in-6

After Reaching 9th Level

A thief can establish a thief den, attract- ing 2d6 apprentices of 1st level. These thieves will serve the character with some reliability; however, should any be arrested or killed, the PC will not be able to attract apprentices to replace them. A successful thief might use these followers to start a Thieves' Guild.

Magic User

Spell casting: Magic-users carry spell books containing the formulae for arcane spells. The level progression table shows the number of spells that can be memorized each day determined by the character's level. A first level magic-user has a number of spells in their spell book based on their Intelligence. The list of spells available to magic-users is found on p131 of the Advanced Player's Handbook.

Using magic items: As spell casters, magic-users are able to use magic scrolls of spells on their spell list. They can also use items that may only be used by arcane spell casters (e.g. magic wands).

Combat

Magic-users can only use daggers, staffs and are unable to use shields or wear any kind of armour. This makes them very vulnerable in combat.

After Reaching 11th Level

A magic-user may build a stronghold, often a great tower. 1d6 apprentices of levels 1-3 will then arrive to study under the magic-user.

Cleric

Holy Symbol: A cleric must carry a holy symbol.

Deity disfavor:Clerics must be faithful to the tenets of their alignment, clergy, and religion. Clerics who fall from favour with their deity may incur penalties.

Magical research:A cleric of any level may spend time and money on magical research. This allows them to create new spells or other magical effects associated with their deity. When a cleric reaches 9th level, they are also able to create magic items.

Spell casting: Once a cleric has proven their faith (from 2nd level), the character may pray to receive spells. The power and number of spells available to a cleric are determined by the character's experience level. The list of spells available to clerics is found on p128 of the advanced player's handbook.

Using magic items: As spell casters, clerics can use magic scrolls of spells on their spell list. They can also use items that may only be used by divine spell casters (e.g. some magic staves).

Turning the Undead

Clerics can invoke the power of their deity to repel undead monsters encountered. To turn the undead, the player rolls 2d6. The referee then consults the table, comparing the roll against the HD of the type of undead monsters targeted.

Successful Turning

If the turning attempt succeeds, the player must roll 2d6 again to determine the number of HD affected (turned or destroyed).

Turned undead: Will leave the area, if possible, and will not harm or make contact with the cleric.

Destroyed undead (result of D): Are instantly and permanently annihilated.

Excess: Rolled Hit Dice that are not sufficient to affect a monster are wasted.

Minimum effect: At least one undead monster will always be affected on a successful turning.

Mixed Groups: If turn undead is used against a mixed group of undead monsters of different types, those with the lowest HD are affected first.

* 2 HD monsters with a special ability (i.e. with an asterisk next to their HD rating, in the monster description).

Turning Table Results

-: The turning fails

Number: If the 2d6 turning roll is higher or equal, the turning attempt succeeds.

T: The turning succeeds.

D: The turning succeeds; the monsters are destroyed, not simply caused to flee.

After Reaching 9th Level

A cleric may establish or build a stronghold. So long as the cleric is currently in favour with their god, a stronghold may be bought or built at half the normal price, due to divine intervention. Once a stronghold is established, the cleric will attract followers (5d6 x 10 fighters of level 1-2). These troops are completely devoted to the cleric, never checking morale. The referee decides which proportions of followers are 1st and 2nd level and which are bowmen, infantry, etc.

Dwarf

Detect Construction Tricks

As expert miners, dwarves have a 2-in-6 chance of being able to detect new construction, sliding walls, or sloping passages when searching.

Detect Room Traps

Due to their expertise with construction, dwarves have a 2-in-6 chance of detecting non-magical room traps when searching.

Infravision

Dwarves have infravision to 60'

Listening at Doors

Dwarves have a 2-in-6 chance of hearing noises.

After Reaching 9th Level

A dwarf has the option of creating an underground stronghold that will attract dwarves from far and wide. Dwarves usually live in clans, so dwarves of the character's clan will be attracted to live under their roof. Dwarves from other clans will generally be friendly and clans may collaborate in times of war or disaster. A dwarf ruler may only hire dwarven mercenaries. Specialists and retainers of any race may be hired.

Elf

Prime Requisites: An elf with at least 13 INT and STR gains a 5% bonus to experience. An elf with an INT of at least 16 and a STR of at least 13 receives a +10% XP bonus.

Arcane Magic

See p122 of the Advanced Player Handbook for full details on arcane magic.

Magical research: An elf of any level may spend time and money on magical research. This allows them to add new spells to their spell book and to research other magical effects. When an elf reaches 9th level, they are also able to create magic items.

Spell casting: Elves carry spell books containing the formulae for arcane spells. The level progression table shows the number of spells that can be memorized each day determined by the character's level. A first level elf has a number of spells in their spell book based on their Intelligence. The list of spells available to elves is found on p131 of the Advanced Player's Handbook (elves have the same spell selection as magic-users).

Using magic items: As spell casters, elves are able to use magic scrolls of spells on their spell list. They can also use items that may only be used by arcane spell casters (e.g. magic wands).

Combat

Elves can use all types of weapons and armor.

Detect Secret Doors

Elves have keen eyes that allow them, when actively searching, to detect hidden and secret doors with a 2-in-6 chance.

Immunity to Ghoul Paralysis

Elves have keen eyes that allow them, when actively searching, to detect hidden and secret doors with a 2-in-6 chance

Infravision

Elves have infravision to 60'.

Listening at Doors

Elves have a 2-in-6 chance of hearing noises.

After Reaching 9th Level

An elf may construct a stronghold in the depths of the forest, blending in with the natural environment of a site of great beauty, for example: in the treetops, beside a serene valley, or hidden behind a waterfall. Whatever material it is made of, the construction costs as much as similar work in stone, due to the exquisite quality of craftsmanship involved.

Forest animals within a 5 mile radius of the completed stronghold will become friends with the elves. They may warn of intruders, carry messages and news, and so on. In exchange for this friendship, the elf must protect the animals from harm. An elf ruler may only hire elven mercenaries. Specialists and retainers of any race may be hired.

halfling

Prime requisites: A halfling with at least 13 in one prime requisite gains a 5% bonus to experience. If both DEX and STR are 13 or higher, the halfling gets a +10% bonus.

Combat

Halflings can use all types of armour, but it must be tailored to their small size. Similarly, they can use any weapon appropriate to their stature (as determined by the referee). They cannot use long- bows or two-handed swords.

Defensive Bonus

Due to their small size, halflings gain a +2 bonus to AC when attacked by large opponents (greater than human-sized).

Hiding

Halflings have an uncanny ability to disappear from sight:

• In woods or undergrowth, a halfling can hide with a 90% chance of success.
• In dungeons, a halfling can hide in shadows or behind other forms of cover. The chance of success is 2-in-6. Hiding requires the halfling to be motionless.

Listening at Doors

Halflings have a 2-in-6 chance of hearing noises.

Missile Attack Bonus

Halflings' keen coordination grants them a +1 bonus to attack rolls with all missile weapons.

Stronghold

Any time a halfling wishes (and has sufficient money), they may build a stronghold, which will form the basis of a new community of halflings. Halfling communities, known as Shires, are typically located in gentle countryside of little rivers and rolling hills. The leader of the community is called the Sheriff.

Acrobat

• Climb sheer surfaces (CS): A roll is required for each 100' to be climbed. If the roll fails, the acrobat falls at the halfway point, suffering falling damage.
• Falling (FA): When able to tumble, acrobats suffer no damage from the first 10 of any fall. Damage due to falling from a greater height is reduced by the listed percentage (rounding fractions down).

  Expertise Points	Damage Reduction
  0	0%
  1	25%
  2	33%
  3	50%
  4	66%
  5	75%

• Hide in shadows (HS): Requires the acrobat to be motionless; attacking or moving while hiding is not possible.
• Move silently (MS): An acrobat may attempt to sneak past enemies unnoticed.
• Tightrope walking (TW): Acrobats can walk along tightropes, narrow beams, and ledges at up to half their normal movement rate. A roll is required every 60'. Failure indicates that the acrobat falls and suffers falling damage. Windy conditions may reduce the chance of success by up to 2-in-6. Holding a balance pole increases the chance of success by 1-in-6.

Base chance of success: All skills begin with a 1-in-6 chance of success.

Expertise points: Acrobats gain expertise points to improve their chance of success with their skills. Each point allocated to a skill improves the chance of success by 1-in-6. Multiple points may be allocated to a skill, further increasing the chance of success. For example, if 2 points are allocated to a skill, the chance of success is raised to 3-in-6 (from the base 1-in-6 chance of success).

At 1st level: At character creation, an acrobat has 3 expertise points to allocate.

Gaining levels: An acrobat gains 1 additional expertise points to allocate.

Maximum chance of success: No skill may be raised above 5-in-6

Combat

Acrobats cannot wear armour bulkier than leather and cannot use shields. They are able to use all missile weapons. Their use of melee weapons is restricted to light blades and staff weapons.

Evasion

When retreating from melee, an acrobat's ability to tumble negates the opponent's usual +2 bonus to hit.

Jumping

With a 20' run-up, an acrobat can jump across a 10' wide pit or chasm (or 20' wide when aided by the use of a pole). Also when using a pole, an acrobat can jump over a 10' high wall or onto a 10' high ledge. Suitable poles for jumping include: 10' poles, polearms, spears, staves.

Tumbling Attack

Using the falling or jumping abilities, an acrobat can make a tumbling melee attack. The attack inflicts double damage if successful. Against an unaware opponent, the acrobat also gains a +4 bonus to hit.

After Reaching 9th Level

An acrobat can establish a training school, attracting 2d6 apprentices of 1st level. The apprentices will serve the character with some reliability; however, should any be arrested or killed, the character will not be able to attract apprentices to replace them. A successful acrobat burglar might use these followers to start a Thieves' Guild.

Assassin

• Assassination (AS): When attacking an unaware humanoid from behind, an assassin gains a +4 bonus to hit. If the attack succeeds, the victim must save versus death with a penalty of however many expertise has been put into this ability (e.g. -0 with no expertise, -3 with 3 expertise points). If the save fails, the victim is instantly killed, otherwise the assassin's attack inflicts normal damage. At 1st level, assassins may not put expertise into assassination.
  Who can be assassinated: Humans / demihumans of any level and humanoid monsters of up to 4+1 HD. (non-living creatures are immune.)
• Climb sheer surfaces (CS): A roll is required for each 100' to be climbed. If the roll fails, the assassin falls at the halfway point, suffering falling damage.
• Hear noise (HN): In a quiet environment (e.g. not in combat), an assassin may attempt to listen at a door or to hear the sounds of something (e.g. a wandering monster) approaching.
• Hide in shadows (HS): Requires the assassin to be motionless; attacking or moving while hiding is not possible.
• Move silently (MS): An assassin may attempt to sneak past enemies unnoticed.

Base chance of success: All skills begin with a 1-in-6 chance of success.

Expertise points: Assassins gain expertise points to improve their chance of success with their skills. Each point allocated to a skill improves the chance of success by 1-in-6. Multiple points may be allocated to a skill, further increasing the chance of success. For example, if 2 points are allocated to a skill, the chance of success is raised to 3-in-6 (from the base 1-in-6 chance of success).

At 1st level: At character creation, an assassin has 3 expertise points to allocate.

Gaining levels: An assassin gains 1 additional expertise points to allocate.

Maximum chance of success: No skill may be raised above 5-in-6

Combat

Assassins cannot wear armour bulkier than leather but may use shields. They can use all types of weapons.

Disguise

Characters of any class may don disguises, but assassins are masters of the art, able to create disguises that pass even close scrutiny.

Chance of detection: Everyone the assassin meets has a 2% chance of spotting the disguise. This roll is repeated once every subsequent day of meeting.

Posing as another class, race or sex: Increases the chance of being detected by 2% per change.

Height and weight: A disguise may alter height (up to 3” shorter or 5” taller) or weight (slightly thinner, much bulkier).

Hirelings

Assassins of 1st-3rd level may not employ retainers, mercenaries, or specialists. From 4th level, an assassin may hire other assassins of lower level. From 8th level, an assassin may hire thieves, and from 12th level any type of character.

Poison

Victims of a poisoning by an assassin suffer a -2 penalty to the saving throw.

After Reaching 12th Level

An assassin may attempt to take over an existing guild of assassins or thieves by killing the old guild-master. This may be achieved by any means (e.g. poisoning, assassination, duel). If successful, the character can maintain a guild of 7d4 members. 75% of the existing members will leave, but new members (typically 1st level assassins) will arrive over time.

Bard

(by me)

Combat

Bards can use leather armour or chainmail but do not have the training required to use plate mail or shields.

Bard Skills

Bards can use the following skills:

• Climb sheer surfaces (CS): A roll is required for each 100' to be climbed. If the roll fails, the bard falls at the halfway point, suffering falling damage.
• Hear noise (HN): In a quiet environment (e.g. not in combat), a bard may attempt to listen at a door or to hear the sounds of something (e.g. a wandering monster) approaching.
• Pick pockets (PP): The chance of success is reduced by 1-in-6 per three levels of the victim. A roll of 6 means that the attempted theft is noticed.
• Read Languages (RL): A bard can read non-magical text in any language (including dead) or basic codes. If the roll fails, the arcane bard may not try the same text again before gaining an experience level.

Base chance of success: All skills begin with a 1-in-6 chance of success.

Expertise points: Bards gain expertise points to improve their chance of success with their skills. Each point allocated to a skill improves the chance of success by 1-in-6. Multiple points may be allocated to a skill, further increasing the chance of success. For example, if 2 points are allocated to a skill, the chance of success is raised to 3-in-6 (from the base 1-in-6 chance of success).

At 1st level: At character creation, a bard has 2 expertise points to allocate.

Gaining levels: A bard gains 1 additional expertise point to allocate.

Maximum chance of success: No skill may be raised above 5-in-6

Enchantment

By playing music and singing, the bard can fascinate subjects in a 30' radius. This ability does not function in combat.

Number of subjects: Up to 2HD of creatures per level of the bard are affected. The bard may choose to target a specific individual or a group (in which case, the affected individuals are determined randomly).

Types of subjects: At 1st level, the bard can fascinate persons. At 4th level, animals may also be affected. At 7th level, monsters may be affected.

Effects: Each subject must save versus spells or be fascinated, as follows:

• Rapt: Fascinated subjects' attention is fully bent on the bard's performance, as long as it continues.
• Follow: The bard may walk while playing. Fascinated subjects will follow.
• Interruptions: If the performance is interrupted (e.g. by loud noise or violence), the fascination ends immediately.

Charming Fascinated Subjects

If the bard performs for at least one turn and the performance ends without interruption, fascinated subjects may be placed under a deeper charm. Each subject must make another save versus spells (with a +2 bonus) or be charmed for one turn per level of the bard:

• Friendship: Charmed subjects regard the bard as a trusted friend and ally and will come to the bard's defense.
• Commands: If they share a language, charmed subjects will obey the bard's commands.
• Alignment: Commands that contradict the charmed creature's nature or alignment may be ignored.
• Suicidal commands: Charmed subjects never obey suicidal or obviously harmful orders.

Languages

Bards learn new languages as they advance in level. At every even numbered level above 3rd (i.e. 4th, 6th, 8th, etc.), the player may choose an additional language.

Lore

From 2nd level, a bard has a 2-in-6 chance of knowing lore pertaining to monsters, magic items, or heroes of folktale or legend. This ability may be used to identify the nature and powers of magic items.

After Reaching 11th Level

A bard can establish a manor. 2d6 apprentice bards of 1st level will come to study under the character.

Beast Master

Establishing a Connection

The beast master must approach a single animal in a peaceful manner. The referee makes a reaction roll. If the result is 8 or greater, the animal becomes the beast master's companion.

Limitations

Type of animals: Both wild and domestic animals may be companions. Giant or magical animals may be companions at the referee's discretion.

Maximum companions: A beast master may have up to one animal companion per experience level. The total Hit Dice of companions may not exceed the character's experience level.

Death or dismissal: If an animal companion dies or is dismissed, the beast master may attempt to forge a connection with a new animal.

Companions' Behavior

Once a connection is successfully established, the animal companion follows the beast master everywhere. It obeys basic commands from the beast master and will fight to defend the beast master, never checking morale.

Clairvoyance

After reaching 5th level, a beast master can see through the eyes of their animal companions, wherever they may be. This requires deep concentration.

Combat

Beast masters can use all types of weapons and can use leather armour, chain mail, and shields.

Identify Tracks

A beast master can identify the tracks and spoor of animals in the wild.

Reaction Modifier

A beast master gains a +1 bonus to reaction rolls made when interacting with animals, in addition to their CHA modifier.

Speak with Animals

Animals understand the basic meaning of a beast master's words.

• From 2nd level: The beast master can also understand the speech of animals.
• From 4th level: The beast master can communicate empathically with animals within sight without the need for words.

Communication with animals is always commensurate to their intelligence.

After Reaching 9th Level

A beast master may construct a stronghold in the wilderness. Animals within a 5 mile radius of the stronghold will become friends with the beast master. They may warn of intruders, carry messages and news, and so on. In exchange for this friendship, the beast master must protect the animals from harm.

Druid

Combat

The holy doctrine of the druids stipulates that they may not use metal armour or shields (wooden shields may be purchased at the normal price). Their choice of weapons is limited to clubs, daggers, slings, spears, and staves.

Divine Magic

See p122 of the Advanced Player Handbook for full details on divine magic.

Holy Symbol: A druid must carry a holy symbol: a sprig of mistletoe which the character must harvest.

Deity disfavor: Druids must be faithful to the tenets of their alignment and religion. Druids who fall from favour with their deity may incur penalties.

Magical research: A druid of any level may spend time and money on magical research. This allows them to create new spells or other magical effects associated with their deity. When a druid reaches 9th level, they are also able to create magic items.

Spell casting: A druid may pray to receive spells from nature. The power and number of spells available to a druid are determined by the character's experience level. The list of spells available to druids is found on p129 of the Advanced Player's Handbook.

Using magic items: As spell casters, druids can use magic scrolls of spells on their spell list. They can also use items that may only be used by divine spell casters (e.g. some staves). Druids may not use magical books or tomes.

Energy Resistance

Druids gain a +2 bonus to saving throws against electricity (lightning) and fire.

Identification

Druids can identify all plants and animals and can discern pure water.

Languages

Druids speak a secret tongue known only to their sect. At each level above 2nd, a druid also learns to speak a language used by creatures of Sylvan forests (e.g. dryads, green dragons, pixies, treants).

Pass Without Trace

From 3rd level, a druid can pass through natural environments without leaving any tracks. The character is also able to move through overgrown areas at normal speed and without impediment.

Path-Finding

A party with a druid has only a 1-in-6 chance of getting lost in woodlands.

Shape Change

At 7th level, a druid gains the power to change into the form of a reptile, bird, and mammal (once per day each). The animal may be of any size up to around twice the bulk of the druid's normal form. If a druid has lost hit points, they regain 1d4 hit points per level upon changing into an animal. All equipment carried by the druid is absorbed into the animal form and reappears when the druid changes back.

Reaching 12th Level and Above

There can only be nine druids of 12th level. When a druid has enough experience to reach 12th level, they must challenge an existing 12th level druid. The character only advances to 12th level if the other druid is defeated. Such challenges may take any form that is agreed by both parties, including combat (which need not be fatal). Likewise, there can only be three druids of 13th level and a single druid (known as the arch-druid) of 14th level. Druids who attain 12th level or above may build a stronghold integrated into a natural setting.

Illusionist

Spell casting: Illusionists carry spell books containing the formulae for arcane spells. The level progression table shows the number of spells that can be memorized each day determined by the character's level. A first level illusionist has a number of spells in their spell book based on their Intelligence. The list of spells available to illusionists is found on p131 of the Advanced Player's Handbook.

Using magic items: As spell casters, illusionists are able to use magic scrolls of spells on their spell list. They can also use items that may only be used by arcane spell casters (e.g. magic wands).

Combat

Illusionists can only use daggers, staffs and are unable to use shields or wear any kind of armour. This makes them very vulnerable in combat.

After Reaching 11th Level

An illusionist may build a stronghold, often a great tower. 1d6 apprentices of levels 1-3 will then arrive to study under the illusionist.

Knight

Chivalric Code

Knights are bound by a stringent code of honour, which they strive to uphold in all their deeds. A knight does not earn any experience points for deeds performed at odds with this code. The fundamentals of this code are: preference of death over dishonor; service of the knight's liege as the greatest honour; glory in single combat; defense to the death of any in the knight's charge; honouring of superiors; respect of equals; demanding obedience from inferiors; scorning the ignoble.

Dishonor: A knight who brings dishonor upon themselves or their liege (this may include changing alignment) may have their knighthood revoked. In this case, the character becomes a fighter of equivalent level. It may be possible to re- gain the status of knighthood by perform- ing a special quest.

Combat

Knights can use all melee weapons but cannot use missile weapons (they regard these as dishonorable). They can wear any metal armour but scorn non-metal armour as only suitable for peasants and villains.

Prowess of arms: Knights regard armour as a symbol of prowess and status, always favouring the most impressive and impervious-looking armour available.

Single combat: In a battle, a knight must attack the most powerful or worthy foe in single combat.

Flying Mounts

A knight of 5th level or higher can train fantastic, flying monsters as mounts. This takes one month. In general, a knight may train flying monsters of Hit Dice at most equal to the knight's level. The use and training of flying monsters as mounts is at the referee's discretion.

Horsemanship

Assessing steeds: Knights are expert riders and can assess the worth of any steed. This allows a knight to determine whether an animal has low, average, or high hit points for its type.

Urging great speed: From 5th level, a knight can urge their steed to great speed, increasing its movement rate by 30' (10') for up to 6 turns, once per day.

Hospitality

A knight of 3rd level or higher can expect hospitality and aid from nobles and other knights of the same alignment or social affiliation (e.g. order, religion, noble house, etc.). A knight is expected to extend such hospitality in kind.

Mounted Combat

Knights gain a +1 bonus to attack rolls when mounted.

Strength of Will

Fear: Knights are immune to all supernatural fear effects. From 3rd level, companions within 10' of the knight gain a +2 bonus on saving throws against fear effects, and retainers and mercenaries under the knight's command within 10' gain a +2 bonus to loyalty or morale.

Beguilement: Knights gain a +4 bonus to saving throws against hold spells, charms, mind control, hypnotism, suggestion, etc. They gain a +2 bonus to saving throws against illusion, and gain a saving throw (one is not normally allowed) against sleep spells.

Stronghold

Any time a knight of 3rd level or higher wishes (and has sufficient money), they can build a castle or stronghold and control the surrounding lands. The permission of the knight's liege is always required.

After Reaching 9th Level

A knight may be granted a title such as Baron or Baroness. The land under the knight's control is then known as a Barony.

Paladin

Combat

Paladins can use all types of weapons and armour.

Divine Magic

See p122 of the Advanced Player Handbook for full details on divine magic.

Holy Symbol: A paladin must carry a holy symbol.

Deity disfavor:Paladins must be faithful to the tenets of their alignment, clergy, and religion. Paladins who fall from favour with their deity may incur penalties.

Spell casting: From 9th level, a paladin may pray to receive spells. The power and number of spells available to a paladin are determined by the character's experience level. The list of spells available to paladins is found on p128 of the advanced player's handbook (paladins have the same spell selection as clerics).

Holy Resistance

Paladins are immune to all disease.

Laying on Hands

Once per day, a paladin can heal 2 hit points per level by laying their hands on wounded characters. Additionally, a paladin of 5th level or higher may cure disease once per week by laying on hands.

Turning the Undead

Paladins of 3rd level and higher can invoke the power of their deity to repel undead monsters encountered. To turn the undead, the player rolls 2d6. The referee then consults the table, comparing the roll against the HD of the type of undead monsters targeted.

Successful Turning

If the turning attempt succeeds, the player must roll 2d6 again to determine the number of HD affected (turned or destroyed).

Turned undead: Will leave the area, if possible, and will not harm or make contact with the paladin.

Destroyed undead (result of D): Are instantly and permanently annihilated.

Excess: Rolled Hit Dice that are not sufficient to affect a monster are wasted.

Minimum effect: At least one undead monster will always be affected on a successful turning.

Mixed Groups: If turn undead is used against a mixed group of undead monsters of different types, those with the lowest HD are affected first.

* 2 HD monsters with a special ability (i.e. with an asterisk next to their HD rating, in the monster description).

Turning Table Results

-: The turning fails

Number: If the 2d6 turning roll is higher or equal, the turning attempt succeeds.

T: The turning succeeds.

D: The turning succeeds; the monsters are destroyed, not simply caused to flee.

After Reaching 9th Level

With the permission of their holy order, a paladin can build a castle or stronghold and control the surrounding lands. The paladin may be granted a title such as Baron or Baroness. The land under their control is then known as a Barony.

Vow of Humility

A paladin may keep only a total of one suit of magical armour, one magical shield, and one magical melee weapon. They must also donate 10% of all income to a Lawful religious institution.

Warhorse

A paladin of 4th level or higher may sum- mon a holy charger—a warhorse with AC 5 [14], 5+5 HD, and a movement rate of 180' (60'). If the horse dies, another may not be summoned for 10 years.

Ranger

Awareness

Rangers are only surprised on a roll of 1. This may mean that a ranger is able to act in the surprise round while their companions are surprised.

Combat

Rangers can use all types of weapons and can use leather armour, chain mail, and shields. Because of their need for stealth, they cannot use plate mail.

Divine Magic

See p122 of the Advanced Player Handbook for full details on divine magic.

Spell casting: From 8th level, due to a deep connection with nature, a ranger gains the ability to cast spells. The power and number of spells available to a ranger are determined by the character's experience level. The list of spells available to rangers is found on p129 of the Advanced Player's Handbook (rangers use the druid spell list).

Foraging and Hunting

A party with a ranger succeeds at foraging with a 2-in-6 chance and finds prey when hunting with a 5-in-6 chance.

Limited Possessions

A ranger may only keep wealth and possessions that can be kept on their person or mount. Excess must be donated to worthy causes (not other PCs!).

Pursuit

When the ranger's party pursues an opposing group in the wilderness, the chance of evasion is reduced by 10%.

Stealth

In the wilderness, a ranger has a 3-in-6 chance of hiding and a 3-in-6 chance of moving silently.

Tracking

Rangers can identify and follow tracks. This skill improves as the character gains levels. Success may be modified by the following factors:

• Soft/hard ground: +20% to -50%.
• Size of group being tracked: +2% per creature beyond the first.
• Passing through an area where other tracks mingle: -50%
• Age of tracks: -5% per 12 hours.
• Rainfall: -25% per hour.
• Efforts made to hide tracks: -25%.

After Reaching 10th Level

2d12 beings will join the ranger as followers. The nature of these followers is up to the referee, they may include human or demihuman adventurers, animals, fantastic mounts, sylvan creatures, or special monsters. If any of the followers die, they are not replaced.

Gnome

Arcane Magic

See p122 of the Advanced Player Handbook for full details on arcane magic.

Magical research: A gnome of any level may spend time and money on magical research. This allows them to add new spells to their spell book and to research other magical effects. When a gnome reaches 8th level, they are also able to create magic items.

Spell casting: gnomes carry spell books containing the formulae for arcane spells. The level progression table shows the number of spells that can be memorized each day determined by the character's level. A first level gnome has a number of spells in their spell book based on their Intelligence. The list of spells available to gnomes is found on p131 of the Advanced Player's Handbook.

Using magic items: As spell casters, gnomes are able to use magic scrolls of spells on their spell list. They can also use items that may only be used by arcane spell casters (e.g. magic wands).

Combat

Gnomes can use leather armour and shields. Armour must be tailored to gnomes' small size. Similarly, they can use any weapon appropriate to their stature (as determined by the referee). They cannot use longbows or two-handed swords.

Defensive Bonus

Due to their small size, gnomes gain a +2 bonus to Armour Class when attacked by large opponents (greater than human- sized).

Detect Construction Tricks

As expert tunnellers, gnomes have a 2-in-6 chance of being able to detect new construction, sliding walls, or sloping passages when searching.

Hiding

Gnomes have an uncanny ability to disappear from sight:

• In woodland cover, a gnome can hide with a 90% chance of success.
• In dungeons, a gnome can hide in shadows or behind other forms of cover. The chance of success is 2-in-6. Hiding requires the gnome to be motionless.

Infravision

Gnomes have infravision to 90'.

Listening at Doors

Gnomes have a 2-in-6 chance of hearing noises.

Speak with Burrowing Mammals

Gnomes often keep burrowing mammals such as badgers and moles as pets. They know the secret language of such creatures.

After Reaching 8th Level

A gnome has the option of creating an underground stronghold that will attract gnomes from far and wide.

Because of gnomes' connection with burrowing mammals, all such creatures within 5 miles of the stronghold will become friends with the gnomes. They may warn of intruders, carry messages and news, and so on. In exchange for this friendship, the gnome must protect the animals from harm.

Gnome rulers can hire members of other races in the capacity of retainers or specialists, but only soldiers of gnomish stock may be hired.

Half-Elf

Prime requisites: A half-elf with at least 13 INT and STR gains a 5% bonus to experience. A half-elf with a score of 16 or higher in one prime requisite, and a 13 or higher in the other gains a 10% bonus.

Arcane Magic

See p122 of the Advanced Player Handbook for full details on arcane magic.

Spell casting: From 2nd level, half-elves gain the ability to cast arcane spells, owning a spell book in which the magical formulae for the spells they know are recorded. The level progression table shows the number of spells that can be memorized each day determined by the character's level. A first level half-elf has a number of spells in their spell book based on their Intelligence. The list of spells available to half-elves is found on p131 of the Advanced Player's Handbook (half-elves have the same spell selection as magic-users).

Using magic items: As spell casters, half-elves are able to use magic scrolls of spells on their spell list. They can also use items that may only be used by arcane spell casters (e.g. magic wands).

Combat

Half-elves can use all types of weapons and armor.

Detect Secret Doors

Half-elves have keen eyes that allow them, when actively searching, to detect hidden and secret doors with a 2-in-6 chance.

Infravision

Half-elves have infravision to 60'.

After Reaching 9th Level

A half-elf may strive to become a leader among humans or among elves, con- structing a stronghold either in the name of a human liege or in the deep forests of the elves.

Human Stronghold

The half-elf may build a castle or strong- hold and control the surrounding lands. The character may be granted a title such as Baron or Baroness. The land under the half-elf's control is then known as a Barony.

Elven Stronghold

The half-elf may construct a stronghold in the depths of the forest, blending in with the natural environment of a site of great beauty, for example: in the treetops, beside a serene valley, or hidden behind a waterfall. Whatever material it is made of, the construction costs as much as similar work in stone due to the exquisite quality of craftsmanship involved.

Once the construction is complete, elves will come to live under the rule of the character. Forest animals within a 5 mile radius of the completed stronghold will become friends with the elves. They may warn of intruders, carry messages and news, and so on. In exchange for this friendship, the half-elf must protect the animals from harm.

The ruler of an elven stronghold may only hire elven mercenaries. Specialists and retainers of any race may be hired.

Half-Orc

Prime requisites: A half-orc with at least 13 DEX and STR gains a 5% bonus to ex- perience. A half-orc with at least 16 DEX and STR gains a 10% bonus.

Back-Stab

When attacking an unaware opponent from behind, a half-orc receives a +4 bonus to hit and doubles any damage dealt.

Combat

Half-orcs can use all types of weapons and can use leather armour, chain mail, and shields.

Infravision

Half-orcs have infravision to 60'.

Retainers

Half-orcs often have difficulty gaining the trust of humans and demihumans, due to orcs' chaotic tendencies. Retainers in a half-orc's employ have their loyalty score reduced by one. (This does not apply to retainers who are also half-orcs.)

Thieving Skills

Thieves can use the following skills:

• Hide in shadows (HS): Requires the thief to be motionless; attacking or moving while hiding is not possible.
• Move silently (MS): A thief may attempt to sneak past enemies unnoticed.
• Pick pockets (PP): The chance of success is reduced by 1-in-6 per three levels of the victim. A roll of 6 means that the attempted theft is noticed.

Base chance of success: All skills begin with a 1-in-6 chance of success.

Expertise points: Thieves gain expertise points to improve their chance of success with their skills. Each point allocated to a skill improves the chance of success by 1-in-6. Multiple points may be allocated to a skill, further increasing the chance of success. For example, if 2 points are allocated to a skill, the chance of success is raised to 3-in-6 (from the base 1-in-6 chance of success).

At 1st level: At character creation, a thief has 1 expertise point to allocate.

Gaining levels: A thief gains 1 additional expertise point to allocate.

Maximum chance of success: No skill may be raised above 5-in-6

After Reaching 8th Level

A half-orc can establish a bandit strong- hold, attracting 2d6 apprentices—1st level fighters, thieves, or half-orcs. These apprentices will serve the character with some reliability; however, should any be arrested or killed, the PC will not be able to attract apprentices to replace them. A successful half-orc might use these followers to start a Thieves' Guild.

Gargantua

Prime requisites: A gargantua with at least 13 CON and STR gains a 5% bonus to experience. A gargantua with a STR of at least 16 and a CON of at least 13 receives a +10% XP bonus.

Combat

Gargantuas can use all types of weapons and armour, but it must be tailored to their large size.

Two-handed melee weapons: A gargantua can wield any two-handed melee weapon, such as a battle axe, with only one hand.

Open Doors

Gargantuas open even barred doors with ease. They are treated as the next highest STR category when it comes to determining their chance of opening doors. For example, a gargantua with STR 12 is treated as if their STR were in the 13-15 category instead.

Rock Throwing

Gargantuas are adept at using rocks as projectiles. Rocks thrown by a gargantua deal 1d6 damage on a successful hit and have a range of 5'-50' / 51'-100; / 101'-150'.

After Reaching 9th Level

A gargantua has the option of creating a stronghold that will form the basis of a new community of gargantuas. Gargantua communities can be located either near those of humans or in the wilderness (typically a forested or hilly area).

Goblin

Prime requisites: A goblin with at least 13 in one prime requisite gains a 5% bonus to experience. If both DEX and STR are 16 or higher, the goblin gets a +10% bonus.

Combat

Goblins can use all types of armour, but it must be tailored to their small size. Similarly, they can use any weapon appropriate to their stature (as determined by the referee). They cannot use longbows or two-handed swords.

Defensive Bonus

Due to their small size, goblins gain a +2 bonus to Armour Class when attacked by large opponents (greater than human- sized).

Detect Construction Tricks

Goblins are fair miners and have a 2-in-6 chance of being able to detect new construction, sliding walls, or sloping passages when searching.

Infravision

Goblins have infravision to 60'.

Stealth

Underground, goblins have a 3-in-6 chance of moving silently.

Wolf Affinity

Goblins live alongside wolves, including dire wolves. They can speak to these animals and gain a +1 bonus to reaction rolls when encountering wolves. If the result is 9 or greater, a wolf will consent to being ridden as a mount by the goblin.

After Reaching 8th Level

A goblin can establish a stronghold, whether above ground or beneath it, attracting 2d6 goblins from far and wide. Goblins typically live in clans, so goblins of the character's clan will be attracted to this stronghold. Goblins from other clans will generally be friendly and clans may collaborate in times of war or disaster.

A goblin ruler may only hire goblin mercenaries. Specialists and retainers of any race may be hired, but this is uncommon.

Wood Elf

Prime requisites: A wood elf with at least 13 DEX and WIS gains a 5% bonus to experience. A wood elf with a DEX of at least 16 and a WIS of at least 13 receives a +10% XP bonus.

Awareness

Wood elves are only surprised on a roll of 1. This may mean that a wood elf is able to act in the surprise round while their companions are surprised.

Combat

Because of their need for stealth and free movement, wood elves cannot wear armour heavier than leather. They can use shields and any weapon.

Detect Secret Doors

Wood elves have keen eyes that allow them, when actively searching, to detect hidden and secret doors with a 2-in-6 chance.

Divine Magic

See p122 of the Advanced Player Handbook for full details on divine magic.

Holy Symbol: A wood elf must carry a holy symbol: a sprig of mistletoe which the character must harvest.

Deity disfavor: Wood elves must be faithful to the tenets of their alignment and religion. Wood elves who fall from favour with their deity may incur penalties.

Magical research: A wood elf of any level may spend time and money on magical research. This allows them to create new spells or other magical effects associated with their deity. When a wood elf reaches 9th level, they are also able to create magic items.

Spell casting: A wood elf may pray to receive spells from nature. The power and number of spells available to a wood elf are determined by the character's experience level. The list of spells available to wood elves is found on p129 of the Advanced Player's Handbook. (wood elves have the same spell selection as druids)

Using magic items: As spell casters, wood elves can use magic scrolls of spells on their spell list. They can also use items that may only be used by divine spell casters (e.g. some staves).

Foraging and Hunting

A party with a wood elf succeeds at foraging with a 2-in-6 chance and finds prey when hunting with a 5-in-6 chance

Hiding

Wood elves have an uncanny ability to disappear from sight. In woods or undergrowth, a wood elf can hide with a 90% chance of success.

Immunity to Ghoul Paralysis

Wood elves are completely unaffected by the paralysis that ghouls can inflict.

Infravision

Wood elves have infravision to 60'

Listening at Doors

Wood elves have a 2-in-6 chance of hearing noises.

Missile Attack Bonus

Wood elves' keen coordination grants them a +1 bonus to attack rolls with all missile weapons.

After Reaching 9th Level

A wood elf may construct a treetop stronghold in the depths of the forest, blending in with the natural environment of a site of great beauty. The stronghold must be made of wood, but construction costs as much as similar work in stone, due to the exquisite quality of craftsmanship involved.

Forest animals within a 5 mile radius of the completed stronghold will become friends with the wood elves. They may warn of intruders, carry messages and news, and so on. In exchange for this friendship, the wood elf ruler must protect the animals from harm.

A wood elf ruler may only hire elven mercenaries. Specialists and retainers of any race may be hired.

Halfling Hearthsinger

Halfling Reeve

Prime requisites: A halfling reeve with at least 13 in one prime requisite gains a 5% bonus to experience. If both CON and WIS are 13 or higher, the halfling gets a +10% bonus.

Alignment: As protectors, reeves must be lawful. If a reeve ever changes alignment, they lose all special class abilities and become a halfling of the same level. The character may be able to regain their reeve status by performing a special quest.

Armor and Weapons: Armour must be tailored to halflings' small size. Similarly, they can use any weapon appropriate to their stature (as determined by the referee). They cannot use longbows or two-handed swords.

Defensive Bonus

Due to their small size, halflings gain a +2 bonus to AC when attacked by large opponents (greater than human-sized).

Divine Magic

See p122 of the Advanced Player Handbook for full details on divine magic.

Spell casting: From 4th level, due to a deep connection with nature, a reeve gains the ability to cast spells. The power and number of spells available to a ranger are determined by the character's experience level. The list of spells available to rangers is found on p129 of the Advanced Player's Handbook (rangers use the druid spell list).

Foraging and Hunting

A party with a reeve succeeds at foraging with a 2-in-6 chance and finds prey when hunting with a 5-in-6 chance.

Goblin Slayer

Reeves receive a +1 bonus to attack and damage rolls made against goblins and related creatures (e.g. bugbears and hobgoblins).

Limited Possessions

A reeve may only keep wealth and possessions that can be kept on their person or mount. Excess must be donated to a halfling community (not other PCs!).

Listening at Doors

Halflings have a 2-in-6 chance of hearing noises.

Stealth

In the wilderness, a reeve can hide automatically, and has a 5-in-6 chance of moving silently.

Wolf Hunter

Reeves receive a +1 bonus to attack and damage rolls made against wolves of all kinds and werewolves.

After Reaching 8th Level

A halfling reeve may build a small cabin or hunting lodge within six miles of a halfling community. They will attract the service of 2d6 1st level halflings and one 3rd level halfling reeve to aid them in patrolling the wilderness and protecting the community.