A look at the Weapon Master prestige class; a class who specialises in the use of a single chosen weapon type. This is a class which is available with the ‘Hordes of the Underdark’ expansion.
Introduction to the Weapon Master
As the name implies, the Weapon Master is a martial type prestige class. As such it is suited to fighting-based characters in the Neverwinter Nights game. This class focuses on perfecting oneself in the usage of a single weapon, multiplying the damage inflicted with their weapon by combining the feats acquired when gaining levels. Eventually the Weapon Master and his chosen weapon will be one entity, and like the skilled martial artist, he will show superior proficiency, using his axe or sword as an extension of his body.
The class has no particular alignment or race restriction, but isn’t particularly easy or flexible due to the fact that a character must have acquired a number of levels in particular skills and feats. All of the feats also require decent points in the Intelligence and Dexterity attributes, specifically at least 13 points in both.
Race, Skills and Feats requirements
The main skills which go with the class are discipline, which any combatant must have in order not to be taunted or caught flat-footed, and also intimidation which allows you to gain information or simply scare your foes. Intimidation is a Charisma based skill. Other lesser important skills are the listen and lore skills or the ability to heal oneself in battle. The main requirements are:
- You must have the following feats: Dodge, Expertise, Mobility, Weapon Focus, Spring Attack (Melee), and the ability to unleash a Whirlwind attack.
- A BA bonus of +5
- 4 levels of Intimidate
Some Feats acquired
Here are the main feats acquired:
Weapon of Choice (level 1) – This is when you choosing the weapon you will focus on. You will then use the ability automatically when equipping your chosen weapon.
Increased Multiplier (Level 5) – When equipping your favoured weapon, the existing multiplier in your Critical Damage increases by one.
Superior Attack Bonus (Level 5) – Increases your AB by 1 point each time you gain a level, from level 5.
Ki Critical (Level 7) – Gain a +2 bonus to the likely chance of hitting your opponent with Critical Damage, with your chosen weapon only of course. Your ability to use this feat per-day increases by one, from level 7.
