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TABLE OF CONTENTS
Introduction............................................. |
2 |
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Red Dragon Disciple ........................ |
19 |
What’s Included in this Manual............ |
2 |
|
Shifter ................................................ |
20 |
The Story So Far ................................... |
2 |
|
Shadowdancer ................................... |
21 |
Getting Started....................................... |
2 |
|
Weapon Master ................................. |
22 |
The ReadMe File ................................... |
2 |
Skills.......................................................... |
23 |
|
System Requirements ............................ |
3 |
Feats.......................................................... |
25 |
|
Setup and Installation............................ |
3 |
Epic Feats ................................................. |
32 |
|
New Camera Controls ........................... |
4 |
Spells......................................................... |
41 |
|
Places and People .................................. |
4 |
Bard ...................................................... |
41 |
|
Cities and Dungeons.............................. |
4 |
Cleric..................................................... |
42 |
|
Characters in the Tale............................ |
5 |
Druid .................................................... |
44 |
|
Beasts...................................................... |
6 |
Paladin .................................................. |
45 |
|
The Campaign: Hordes |
|
Ranger .................................................. |
46 |
|
of the Underdark™ ............................... |
7 |
Sorcerer/Wizard................................... |
46 |
|
Player’s Handbook .................................. |
8 |
Epic Spells ................................................ |
49 |
|
Character Creation ................................ |
8 |
How to Cast ......................................... |
49 |
|
Experience and Gaining Levels ............ |
8 |
Choosing Epic Spells ........................... |
49 |
|
Alignment Shift ...................................... |
8 |
Items.......................................................... |
49 |
|
Multiple Henchmen ............................... |
9 |
Grenade-like Weapons ........................ |
50 |
|
Epic Rules .............................................. |
9 |
New Weapons ...................................... |
50 |
|
Core Classes ........................................... |
9 |
Powerful Magical Items ...................... |
51 |
|
Barbarian ............................................. |
9 |
Poisons.................................................. |
51 |
|
Bard ................................................... |
10 |
Item Crafting and Enhancing.................. |
51 |
|
Cleric.................................................. |
10 |
Crafting................................................. |
51 |
|
Druid.................................................. |
10 |
Crafting Recipes................................... |
53 |
|
Fighter ............................................... |
11 |
Enhancing............................................. |
53 |
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Monk.................................................. |
11 |
Toolset....................................................... |
54 |
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Paladin ............................................... |
11 |
Tilesets .................................................. |
54 |
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Ranger................................................ |
12 |
Aurora Toolset — |
|
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Rogue................................................. |
12 |
New Wizards & Features .................... |
54 |
|
Sorcerer ............................................. |
12 |
Scripting Tips ........................................... |
55 |
|
Wizard ............................................... |
13 |
Tables and Charts..................................... |
56 |
|
Prestige Classes.................................... |
13 |
Spell Icons ................................................ |
61 |
|
Arcane Archer ................................... |
13 |
Dansk Quickstart..................................... |
66 |
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Assassin.............................................. |
14 |
Svensk Quickstart.................................... |
68 |
|
Blackguard ........................................ |
14 |
Suomi Quickstart ..................................... |
70 |
|
Champion of Torm ............................ |
15 |
Norsk Quickstart ..................................... |
72 |
|
Dwarven Defender ........................... |
16 |
Portuguese Quickstart ............................. |
74 |
|
Harper Scout..................................... |
17 |
Credits....................................................... |
76 |
|
Pale Master........................................ |
18 |
Technical Support .................................... |
81 |
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1 |
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INTRODUCTION
Neverwinter Nights™ continues the epic role-playing game revolution with the Hordes of the Underdark™ expansion pack, featuring all new prestige classes, monsters, weapons, feats, skills and spells! Engage in a brand new single-player adventure. Dungeon Masters can create richer experiences with five new tilesets and over a dozen new creature models.
What’s Included in this Manual
This manual describes enhancements to the rules and provides descriptions of the new features, including skills, feats, spells and weapons. Where necessary, please refer to the original Neverwinter Nights™ game manual.
The Story So Far
You have recently escaped from a long sojourn on the Plane of Shadow. Your adventures in that murky dimension have transformed you from a raw novice to a seasoned adventurer. Escaping from the plane has made you, the talk of taverns and daydreaming children who seek to emulate your exploits.
Beneath the city of Waterdeep lies the Underdark and from it the armies of darkness have risen to lay siege to the splendid city. You have arrived to save Waterdeep and in so doing you will step from the storybooks of mortal heroes and take your place among the truly epic heroes and heroines of lore.
GETTING STARTED
The ReadMe File
The Neverwinter Nights: Hordes of the Underdark CD-ROM game has a ReadMe file where you can view both the License Agreement and updated information about the game. We strongly encourage you to read this file in order to benefit from changes made after this manual went to print.
To view this file, double-click on it in the Hordes of the Underdark directory found on your hard disk (usually C:\NeverwinterNights\NWN\docs). You can also view the ReadMe file by first clicking on the Start button on your Windows® taskbar, then on Programs, then on Neverwinter Nights and then on the HoTUreadme.txt.
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System Requirements
Operating System: |
Windows® 98/Me/2000SP2/XP |
Processor: |
800 MHz (1.3 GHz or higher recommended) |
Memory: |
128 MB RAM (256 MB recommended) |
|
256 MB RAM for Windows® XP |
|
(512 MB RAM recommended for Windows® XP) |
Hard Disk Space: |
1.5 GB Free |
CD-ROM Drive: |
8X Speed |
Video: |
32 MB video card with Hardware T&L support* |
|
(64 MB video card with Hardware T&L support* |
|
recommended) |
Sound: |
DirectX®-certified sound card* |
Multiplayer: |
Local area network with TCP/IP protocol or |
|
established Internet connection (56 Kbps modem or |
|
faster required) |
DirectX®: |
DirectX® version 8.1b or higher |
*Indicates device should be compatible with DirectX® version 8.1b or higher.
Setup and Installation
1.Start Windows® 98/Me/2000SP2/XP.
2.Insert the Neverwinter Nights: Hordes of the Underdark CD-ROM game disc into your CDROM drive.
3.If AutoPlay is enabled, a title screen should appear. If AutoPlay is not enabled, or the installation does not start automatically, click on the Start button on your Windows® taskbar, then on Run. Type D:\Setup and click on OK.
Note: If your CD-ROM drive is assigned to a letter other than D, substitute that letter.
4.Follow the remainder of the on-screen instructions to finish installing the Neverwinter Nights: Hordes of the Underdark CD-ROM game.
5.Once installation is complete, click on the Start button on the Windows® taskbar and choose Programs/ Neverwinter Nights/Neverwinter Nights to start the game.
Note: You must have the Play disc in your CD-ROM drive to play.
Installation of DirectX®
The Neverwinter Nights: Hordes of the Underdark CD-ROM requires DirectX® 8.1b or higher in order to run. If you do not have DirectX® 8.1b or higher installed on your computer, click on “Yes” when asked if you would like to install it.
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NEW CAMERA CONTROL
The default camera view has now been changed to a third-person over-the-shoulder perspective. In addition, the camera range has been expanded. You can now zoom the camera in to a few feet from the character or zoom out to provide a larger view of the environment. In addition, the pitch of the camera now ranges from minus 180-degrees to minus 1-degree angle to give the perspective from the character’s eyes. Controls are outlined below:
Camera Views
Normal: Camera fixed in position.
Chase View: Camera locked looking over the character’s shoulder from behind.
• Press “*” [asterisk] on the number pad to toggle between camera views.
Mouse Wheel
•Press and hold mouse wheel to change the camera
•Move mouse wheel forward to zoom in
•Move mouse wheel back to zoom out
Keyboard
Normal camera view |
|
Key |
Action |
Insert |
Camera up full (overhead view) |
Delete |
Camera down full (view toward the horizon) |
Page Down (press and hold) |
Reset to default view |
Home |
Zoom camera in full |
End |
Zoom camera out full |
Page Up/Down |
Move camera up/down |
Chase view |
|
|
|
Key |
Action |
Insert |
Camera up full (overhead view) |
Delete |
Camera down full – (view toward the horizon) |
Page Down (press and hold) |
Reset to default view |
Page Up/Down |
Move camera up/down |
PLACES AND PEOPLE
Cities and Dungeons
Waterdeep
Waterdeep is the major cosmopolitan power of the Sword Coast and is known by many as the City of Splendours. The city is an important centre of trade and innovation, ideally situated beside an excellent harbour. Life goes on as normal for its citizens as it has for many years but something always stirs below, for the city sits atop the dungeon called Undermountain. Waterdeep now faces one of the most difficult crises in its history, for what was once safely contained below now rises forth. Drow, beholders and the dreaded mind flayers now lay siege to the city.
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Undermountain
The mad wizard Halaster Blackcloak built thousands of tunnels beneath the city of Waterdeep, forming a strange and dangerous labyrinth. Therein he stored his treasures, experiments and necessities. With powerful creatures bound to his will, Halaster has populated this ever-changing dungeon with the most fearsome of beasts. Few adventurers have survived to tell the tale of Undermountain. Those that have had, best be shown some well-earned respect.
The Underdark
Entire societies exist beneath the earth, empires falling and rising without any idea that there is a world above them. The cruellest of the Underdark's masters are the drow. These shunned cousins of the elven folk have built majestic cities throughout the lightless realm. But foul creatures and cultures even more dangerous than the drow populate the vast expanses between the pockets of civilization.
Characters in the Tale
Durnan
He is a former adventurer who now manages a small inn called the Yawning Portal. He runs the inn with the help of his wife Mhaere — another retired adventurer — and their daughter Tamsil. The inn's claim to fame is that it sits atop the fearsome dungeon known as Undermountain.
The Valsharess
This female drow is the mysterious and enigmatic leader of the large Underdark army that threatens Waterdeep. The Valsharess (which means Empress in the drow tongue) is the title she has given herself her true name still remains a secret. Through force and diplomacy she has melded together the enemies of her people into a massive army that threatens to topple the most powerful city in Faerun. Little is known about her except that she and her forces have mastered an advanced form of fire magic. She is intelligent, proud and more than certain of her ultimate victory.
Deekin
This kobold is a bard of surprising skill, his talents honed under the watchful guidance of the white dragon that trained him. His past is far behind him now, for Deekin has travelled far and wide, even having had some small hand in saving the world from the flying city of Undrentide.
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Daelan
This temperamental half-orc barbarian is well known for his strength and ferocity. He has come to the Yawning Portal to lend his arm in the struggle against the forces of the Underdark.
Linu
An elven cleric, Linu is a kind and gentle soul, but one who defends her companions with tenacity and talent. When the city of Waterdeep sent out a plea for help she made her way there as quickly as possible.
Sharwyn
Tomi
This fighter-bard never backs down from a fight she thinks she could win; and her courage always has her thinking that she can win any fight, despite the odds stacked against her. Competitive and eager, she searches for rare music to add to her repertoire.
Never out of trouble for long, this halfling thief has a penchant for sending himself and those who travel with him onto the wildest of adventures. But he is strong of heart and quick of feet and makes an ideal travelling companion for those who do not mind keeping a watchful eye over their own purse.
Beasts
The darkness holds many surprises. Herein is just a sample of what may be found within the Underdark.
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Beholders
Also known as a “sphere of many eyes” or an “eye tyrant,” the beholder is the stuff of nightmares. Its eyestalks can fire beams of energy to disable or destroy its opponents. In a blink of an eye, the large central orb can disable all the magical effects of an adventurer, rendering him “easy pickings”.
Driders
These are bloodthirsty creatures that lurk in the depths of the earth, seeking warm-blooded prey of any kind. All drow must pass a special test set upon them by their goddess Lolth. Those who fail become doomed to suffer existence as half-spider, half-drow. Drow and drider hate one another passionately.
Gelatinous Cubes
This nearly transparent cube travels slowly along dungeon corridors and cave floors, absorbing carrion, creatures and trash. It can immobilize and devour an adventurer in moments.
Illithid
Also known as mind flayers, these tentacled monstrosities are generally weak of body but strong of mind. Their unmatched psionic attacks can paralyse an opponent, giving the mind flayer ample time to wrap its tentacles about the victim's head to suck out their brains. Most heroes die from the procedure. Mind flayers are also capable of creating realistic illusions that are rather difficult to disbelieve.
The Campaign: Hordes of the Underdark™
These modules will take your character from levels 12-15 all of the way into the epic levels. After finishing the campaign you will notice that there are some epic feats and epic spells that your character still does not meet the requirements for. This is because the level cap for Hordes of the Underdark is now 40 levels! This is meant to encourage you to play online and enjoy the rich multiplayer environment, where you can interact with other gamers as your character journeys and gains more experience!
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PLAYER'S HANDBOOK
Hordes of the Underdark is an adventure featuring all-new skills and feats with which your characters may grow.
CHARACTER CREATION
Hordes of the Underdark requires a high-level character. The Underdark is not the place for fledgling adventurers.
Either continue a character from Shadows of Undrentide or the original Neverwinter Nights story or choose a pre-made character. Hordes of the Underdark introduces a new feature to help you customize the pre-made characters we supply. Select the character that most closely matches your preferences and click on the “Customize” button. You will be able to change the appearance, portrait, sound-set and gender of the character. Note: You can also customize any other existing character you might have, instead of using the pre-generated ones that come with the game.
If you enter the game with less than 12 levels you will be given the choice to automatically level all the way to level 15 or manually level up. Characters of level 12 or higher are allowed to play, though the higher the character's level, the less difficult they will find the challenges in Hordes of the Underdark.
EXPERIENCE AND GAINING LEVELS
As you adventure your character gains experience. Once enough experience has been gained a character may level up. This process improves your character and makes him or her more capable of handling their next adventure. There are tables at the back of this manual summarizing the amount of experience required to gain levels.
Class Level: The number of levels the character has in a given class. If the character has more than one class, this number is lower than the character level. Example: Andorian is a level 8 fighter/level 7 wizard. He has a class level of 8 in fighter, 7 in wizard.
Character Level: The sum of all the class levels. Using the example above, Andorian would have a character level of 15.
ALIGNMENT SHIFT
If your character acts outside of what would be appropriate for his or her alignment, those actions can cause a shift in alignment, from good to evil, lawful to chaotic and so on. The severity of the shift varies with the deed and can sometimes have extreme consequences.
For example, if a paladin performs an overtly evil or chaotic act, which changes his or her alignment from lawful good, he or she will no longer be a paladin. Most out-of-character actions only create slight shifts in alignment. A good character can have a bad day and threaten to rough up a shopkeeper with little consequence. If, however, that good character acts on the threat and kills the merchant, a significant alignment shift toward evil would occur.
Good-aligned characters will take a bigger alignment “hit” from performing an evil act than a neutral character as will evil-aligned characters who perform good deeds.
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MULTIPLE HENCHMEN
You may have up to two henchmen at a time. If you hire a third, the first henchman hired will automatically quit your party.
Followers: Occasionally, plot-important characters will join with you for a short period. They do not count toward your limit of two henchmen. Be warned, they may leave your service anytime they want.
EPIC RULES
The epic rules are the means by which your character will continue his adventuring career. Before any of the features of epic level are available, your character must have gained at least 21character levels.
Examples
True Blood, a fighter, would become an epic fighter the moment his character reached level 21. Alternatively, Damien is a 9th level rogue/10th level assassin. He has 19 character levels. Because the assassin class is a prestige class, it cannot move past 10 class levels until he has a character level of 20. After taking one more level, he will be a 20th character level character and can then put his next level in assassin, becoming both an epic assassin and an epic rogue.
CORE CLASSES
These are the eleven basic classes that all characters must start their adventuring careers. The basic details of these classes are discussed in the manual for the original Neverwinter Nights.
The “Charts and Tables” section on page 56 contains tables showing class advancement with attack bonuses and saving throw increases.
Barbarian
The epic barbarian is a furious warrior who can cut his opponents to ribbons with awe-inspiring ease. He is the very incarnation of rage.
Hit Dice: d12
Skill Points at Each Additional Level: 4 + Int Modifier
Bonus Feats: The epic barbarian gains a bonus feat every four levels after 20th
Epic Barbarian Bonus Feats: Armour Skin, Epic Damage Reduction, Devastating Critical, Epic Toughness, Epic Prowess, Mighty Rage, Weapon Focus, Overwhelming Critical, Superior Initiative, Terrifying Rage, Thundering Rage
Prestige Class Tips
Barbarians make powerful blackguards, dwarven defenders or weapon masters.
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Bard
The epic bard's music is beyond inspiring, beyond heartening, beyond perfection. With just a song, the bard can weaken the cruellest creature or
inspire allies to the heights of power and bravery.
Hit Dice: d6
Skill Points at Each Additional Level: 4 + Int Modifier
Bonus Feats: The epic bard gains a bonus feat every three levels after 20th
Epic Bard Bonus Feats: Curse Song, Epic Skill Focus, Epic Will, Great Charisma, Great Dexterity, Improved Combat Casting, Lasting Inspiration, Epic Spell Focus
Prestige Class Tips
The bard is best suited to become shadowdancers or Harper Scouts. Combat-oriented bards may enjoy becoming a dragon disciple.
Cleric
The epic cleric is among the most elite of her deity's servants, spreading the word and acting as emissary for the church. The epic cleric commands great
power and respect.
Hit Dice: d8
Skill Points at Each Additional Level: 2 + Int Modifier
Bonus Feats: The epic cleric gains a bonus feat every three levels after 20th
Epic Cleric Bonus Feats: Armour Skin, Automatic Quicken Spell, Automatic Silent Spell, Automatic Still Spell, Epic Spell Focus, Epic Spell Penetration, Greater Wisdom, Improved Combat Casting, Planar Turning
Prestige Class Tips
Militant clerics should consider becoming a champion of Torm. Evil clerics make powerful blackguards.
Domains and Turning Outsiders
Note: Outsiders have been improved. They get turn resistance equal to their spell resistance rating (only clerics of the Good or Evil domains may turn them without the new planar turning feat). If you have the planar turning feat they are weakened and only have 1/2 their spell resistance as turn resistance.
Druid
Powerful, primal forces dominate nature and the epic druid is capable of harnessing them. The epic druid is a mighty symbol of the natural world and
the balance demands that he use his great powers responsibly.
Hit Dice: d8
Skill Points at Each Additional Level: 4 + Int Modifier
Bonus Feats: The epic druid gains a bonus feat every four levels after 20th
Epic Druid Bonus Feats: Automatic Quicken Spell, Automatic Silent Spell, Automatic Still Spell, Dragon Form, Energy Resistance, Epic Spell Focus, Epic Spell Penetration, Greater Wisdom, Improved Combat Casting
Prestige Class Tips
The most effective prestige class that expands the druid's abilities is the shifter.
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Fighter
Having advanced from the ranks of seasoned warriors, the epic fighter is the true master of warfare. More than a mere sword-swinger, the epic fighter knows how to defeat his opponents in any arena. Though his journey to achieve this goal
has been long and hard, the epic fighter is just starting out on another path — a fledgling in the realm of gods and other powerful beings.
Hit Dice: d10
Skill Points at Each Additional Level: 2 + Int Modifier
Bonus Feats: The epic fighter gains a bonus feat every two levels after 20th
Epic Fighter Bonus Feats: Armour Skin, Damage Reduction, Devastating Critical, Epic Prowess, Epic Toughness, Epic Weapon Focus, Epic Weapon Specialization, Improved Stunning Fist, Improved Whirlwind Attack, Overwhelming Critical, Superior Initiative
Prestige Class Tips
Fighters have many options available to them — blackguard, dwarven defender or weapon master are among the best choices. Elf and half-elf fighters who use bows may want to consider becoming arcane archers.
Monk
An epic monk's speed, power, grace and force of will are unmatched by mortal beings. Her powers continue to multiply as she steps away from the mortal shell
and accepts an inner tranquillity that lesser characters cannot even dream of.
Hit Dice: d8
Skill Points at Each Additional Level: 4 + Int Modifier
Bonus Feats: The epic monk gains a bonus feat every five levels after 20th
Special: Every 3 levels the monk's movement speed will increase by an additional 10%
Epic Monk Bonus Feats: Armour Skin, Damage Reduction, Energy Resistance, Epic Toughness, Improved Ki Strike, Improved Spell Resistance, Improved Stunning Fist, Self-Concealment
Prestige Class Tips
Shadowdancer is a good choice for a stealthy monk. Pious monks may want to consider the champion of Torm.
Paladin
Standing at the forefront of the battle against chaos and evil in the world, the epic paladin shines as a beacon of hope to all who fight the good fight.
Hit Dice: d10
Skill Points at Each Additional Level: 2 + Int Modifier
Bonus Feats: The epic paladin gains a bonus feat every three levels after 20th
Epic Paladin Bonus Feats: Armour Skin, Devastating Critical, Epic Toughness, Epic Weapon Focus, Epic Prowess, Epic Reputation, Great Smiting, Improved Combat Casting, Overwhelming Critical, Perfect Health, Planar Turning
Prestige Class Tips
The champion of Torm prestige class improves upon the paladin's already considerable melee and defensive abilities.
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Ranger
The epic ranger moves through the natural world with deadly grace and a keen mind. The epic ranger is both a protector and a hunter and his powers reflect this.
Hit Dice: d10
Skill Points at Each Additional Level: 4 + Int Modifier
Bonus Feats: The epic ranger gains a bonus feat every three levels after 20th
Epic Ranger Bonus Feats: Bane of Enemies, Blinding Speed, Epic Toughness, Epic Prowess, Epic Weapon Focus, Favoured Enemy, Improved Combat Casting
Prestige Class Tips
Combined with wizard or sorcerer levels, the ranger makes the perfect arcane archer.
Rogue
The ultimate thief with legendary skills and many a tale of derring-do, the epic rogue is the master of cunning, deceit and stealth.
Hit Dice: d6
Skill Points at Each Additional Level: 8 + Int Modifier
Bonus Feats: The epic rogue gains a bonus feat every four levels after 20th
Epic Rogue Bonus Feats: Blinding Speed, Crippling Strike, Defensive Roll, Epic Dodge, Epic Reputation, Epic Skill Focus, Improved Evasion, Improved Sneak Attack, Opportunist, Self-Concealment, Skill Mastery, Slippery Mind, Superior Initiative
Special
Sneak Attack: This continues to improve by 1d6 at each odd-numbered level the epic rogue gains
Prestige Class Tips
Rogues make effective assassins and shadowdancers.
Sorcerer
The epic sorcerer is a near mythic being. But still the need for ever greater power never ceases and the sorcerer pushes on, exploring and mastering the magical.
Hit Dice: d4
Skill Points at Each Additional Level: 2 + Int Modifier
Bonus Feats: The epic sorcerer gains a bonus feat every three levels after 20th
Epic Sorcerer Bonus Feats: Automatic Quicken Spell, Automatic Silent Spell, Automatic Still Spell, Energy Resistance, Epic Spell Focus, Epic Spell Penetration, Improved Combat Casting
Prestige Class Tips
Sorcerers are ideally suited to becoming dragon disciples and pale masters.
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Wizard
Knowledge is power and the quest for knowledge never ends. There is an everlasting supply of arcane lore for the epic wizard to discover.
Hit Dice: d4
Skill Points at Each Additional Level: 2 + Int Modifier
Bonus Feats: The epic wizard gains a bonus feat every three levels after 20th
Epic Wizard Bonus Feats: Automatic Quicken Spell, Automatic Silent Spell, Automatic Still Spell, Epic Spell Focus, Epic Spell Penetration, Great Intelligence, Improved Combat Casting
Prestige Class Tips
The pale master is a strong prestige class that builds upon the wizard's magical abilities.
PRESTIGE CLASSES
Prestige Classes are like core classes, except they have requirements that must be met before one can attain the class. A prestige class cannot be chosen for a starting character, it must be earned through careful advancement. Be aware of the prerequisites before planning which prestige class to take.
Prestige classes can become epic as well, though they function a little differently than normal classes. At level 10, level advancement in a prestige class stops until the character's total character level (the sum of all their class levels) is 20 or higher. Once this threshold is crossed, the character may advance to 11th level and higher with their prestige class.
Arcane Archer
Master of the elven war bands, the arcane archer is a warrior skilled in using magic to supplement his combat prowess.
Note: The arcane archer prestige class is available in the Neverwinter Nights: Shadows of Undrentide expansion pack (which is also a part of Neverwinter Nights Gold). If you do not have Shadows of Undrentide installed, arcane archer will be unavailable. For more information about the arcane archer prestige class, reference the Shadows of Undrentide or the Neverwinter Nights Gold manuals.
Epic
The epic arcane archer is the living extension of her bow. Lesser beings can only gape in awe at the wonders she can achieve.
Hit Dice: d8
Skill Points at Each Additional Level: 4 + Int Modifier
Bonus Feats: The epic arcane archer gains a bonus feat every four levels
Epic Arcane Archer Bonus Feats: Devastating Critical (shortbow, longbow), Epic Prowess, Epic Reflexes, Epic Toughness, Epic Weapon Focus (shortbow, longbow), Great Dexterity, Improved Combat Casting, Overwhelming Critical (shortbow, longbow)
Special
Enchant Arrow: For every two levels beyond 9th, the potency of the arrows fired by the arcane archer increases by +1
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Assassin |
The assassin is a master of dealing quick, lethal blows. Assassins often function |
as spies, informants, killers for hire or agents of vengeance. The assassin’s skill |
in a variety of dark arts allows him to carry out missions of death with shocking, |
terrifying precision. |
Unlike the blackguard, the assassin is not evil due to devotion to an evil power, but rather due to a complete lack of morals or ethics.
Note: The assassin prestige class is available in the Neverwinter Nights: Shadows of Undrentide expansion pack (which is also a part of Neverwinter Nights Gold). If you do not have Shadows of Undrentide installed, assassin will be unavailable.
For more information about the assassin prestige class, reference the Shadows of Undrentide or the Neverwinter Nights Gold manuals.
Epic Assassin
The epic assassin is capable of sliding from shadow to shadow; lying in wait until his target is vulnerable, then striking like a cobra, leaving only a cold corpse behind.
Hit Dice: d6
Skill Points at Each Additional Level: 4 + Int Modifier
Bonus Feats: The epic assassin gains a bonus feat every four levels
Epic Assassin Bonus Feats: Epic Reflexes, Epic Skill Focus (hide), Epic Skill Focus (move silently), Great Dexterity, Improved Combat Casting, Improved Sneak Attack, Self Concealment, Superior Initiative
Special
Sneak Attack: Improves by +1d6 every two levels after 9th.
Poison Saving Throws: An additional +1 for every two levels after 10th on the assassin's saving throws against poison
Blackguard |
A blackguard epitomizes evil. He is nothing short of a mortal fiend, a black |
knight with the foulest sort of reputation. A blackguard is an evil villain of the |
first order, equivalent in power to the righteous paladin, but devoted to the powers of |
darkness. |
Note: The blackguard prestige class is available in the Neverwinter Nights: Shadows of Undrentide expansion pack (which is also a part of Neverwinter Nights Gold). If you do not have Shadows of Undrentide installed, blackguard will be unavailable.
For more information about the blackguard prestige class, reference the Shadows of Undrentide or the Neverwinter Nights Gold manuals.
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Epic Blackguard
The blackguard is a twisted reflection of the epic paladin, radiating evil power from every pore of her body.
Hit Dice: d10
Skill Points at Each Additional Level: 2 + Int Modifier
Bonus Feats: The epic blackguard gains a bonus feat every three levels
Epic Blackguard Bonus Feats: Armour Skin, Devastating Critical, Epic Toughness, Epic Fiend, Epic Prowess, Epic Reputation, Epic Weapon Focus, Great Smiting, Improved Combat Casting, Improved Sneak Attack, Overwhelming Critical, Perfect Health, Planar Turning
Special
Sneak attack: increases by +1d6 every three levels after 10th.
Summon Fiend: For every five blackguard levels above 10th, the summoned fiend gains +2 bonus Hit Dice, its natural armour increases by +2, and its Strength and Intelligence each increase by +1.
Champion of Torm
Champions of Torm are mighty warriors who dedicate themselves to Torm's cause, defending holy ground, destroying enemies of the church and slaying
mythical beasts.
Hit Dice: d10
Proficiencies: All simple and martial weapons, light and medium armour and shields
Skill Points: 2 + Int Modifier
To qualify as a champion of Torm, a character must fulfil all of the following criteria:
Base Attack Bonus: +7
Feats: Weapon Focus in a melee weapon
Alignment: Non-evil
Abilities
Lay on hands (Level 1): Can heal damage equal to class level multiplied by their Charisma modifier, deals damage to undead creatures. This ability stacks with the paladin's lay on hands ability.
Bonus Feat: Every 2 levels (2, 4, 6 et cetera) get a bonus feat like fighters (except weapon specialization)
Sacred Defense (Level 2): +1 to all saving throws, this increases by an additional +1 every 2 levels
Smite Evil (Level 3): Once per day can add Charisma bonus to attack roll and do +1 point of damage per level of Champion of Torm
Divine Wrath (Level 5): Once per day, can add +3 to attack, damage and saving throws and gain damage reduction +1/5 for a number of rounds equal to charisma bonus
Tip: Becoming a Champion of Torm
Paladins gain some of the fighter's combat abilities by choosing to become a champion of Torm. Conversely, fighters gain paladin-like abilities by playing this prestige class.
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Epic Champion of Torm
Torm guides the epic champion of Torm on her life journey. She has ascended through the ranks of holy warriors to become a symbol of Torm's might.
Hit Dice: d10
Skill Points at Each Additional Level: 2 + Int Modifier
Bonus Feats: The epic champion of Torm gains a bonus feat every three levels
Epic Champion of Torm Bonus Feats: Automatic Quicken, Automatic Silence Spell, Automatic Still Spell, Armour Skin, Damage Reduction, Devastating Critical, Epic Toughness, Epic Prowess, Epic Spell Penetration, Epic Weapon Focus, Great Wisdom, Improved Combat Casting, Improved Stunning Fist, Improved Whirlwind Attack, Overwhelming Critical, Planar Turning, Spell Focus, Superior Initiative
Special
Sacred Defense: Saving throws continue to improve by +1 for every 2 levels
Divine Wrath: Every five levels the attack, damage and saving throw bonuses increases by a further +2
Dwarven Defender
The defender is a sponsored champion of a dwarven cause, a dwarven aristocrat, a dwarven deity or the dwarven way of life. As the name might imply, this character is a skilled combatant trained in the arts of defence. A line of
dwarven defenders is a far better defence than a 10-foot-thick wall of stone and much more dangerous.
Hit Dice: d12
Proficiencies: Simple and Martial Weapons, Light, Medium and Heavy Armour, Shields
Skill Points: 2 + Int Modifier
To qualify as a dwarven defender, a character must fulfil all of the following criteria:
Race: Dwarf
Base Attack Bonus: +7
Feats: Dodge, Toughness
Alignment: Any lawful
Abilities
Defensive Stance (Level 1): Gain +4 strength and constitution, +2 on all saving throws and +4 dodge bonus on AC. This can be used once per day and gains an additional use every 2 levels
Defensive Awareness (Level 1): Retain your dexterity bonus to AC even when flatfooted. At level 6 you can no longer be flanked and at level 10 you gain a +1 saving throw bonus vs. traps
Damage Reduction (Level 6): 3 points of damage are ignored whenever you are hit in combat. At level 10 you are able to shrug off 6 points of damage
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Tip: Becoming a Dwarven Defender
A dwarven fighter can become a very powerful dwarven defender. To gain the dodge prerequisite that the dwarven defender requires, your character will need a dexterity of 13 or higher.
Epic Dwarven Defender
The epic dwarven defender has become the very definition of immovable object. He is a stalwart warrior that can stand against virtually any foe imaginable.
Hit Dice: d12
Skill Points at Each Additional Level: 2 + Int Modifier
Bonus Feats: The epic dwarven defender gains a bonus feat every four levels
Epic Dwarven Defender Bonus Feats: Armour Skin, Damage Reduction, Devastating Critical, Energy Resistance, Epic Toughness, Epic Prowess, Epic
Weapon Focus, Overwhelming Critical, Perfect Health
Special: Defensive Stance: an additional use per day is gained for every two levels past 9th
Damage Reduction: The damage reduction increases by 3 points for every four levels above 10th
Harper Scout |
Harpers are members of a secret society dedicated to holding back evil, |
preserving knowledge and maintaining the balance between civilization and |
the wild. Harpers learn spells and many skills to help them in their duties of espionage, |
stealth and reporting information. |
Note: The Harper scout prestige class is available in the Neverwinter Nights: Shadows of Undrentide expansion pack (which is also a part of Neverwinter Nights Gold). If you do not have Shadows of Undrentide installed, Harper scout will be unavailable.
For more information about the Harper scout prestige class, reference the Shadows of Undrentide or the Neverwinter Nights Gold manuals.
Epic Harper Scout
Harper Scouts are only able to attain five levels and may never become "epic" in the Harper Scout class. They can, of course, gain epic levels in their other classes.
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Pale Master
Necromancy is usually a poor choice for arcane spellcasters. Those who really want to master the deathless arts almost always pursue divine means.
However, an alternative exists for those who desire power over undead, without losing too much of their arcane power. Enter the pale master, who draws on a font of special lore that provides a macabre power, all its own.
Hit Dice: d6
Proficiencies: No additional proficiencies are gained
Skill Points: 2 + Int Modifier
To qualify as a pale master, a character must fulfil all of the following criteria:
Arcane Spellcasting: Level 3 or higher
Alignment: Any non-good.
Abilities
Bone Skin (Level 1): +2 to natural armour class. Every four levels this increases by an additional +2.
Animate Dead (Level 2): Once per day can summon an undead servant
Darkvision (Level 3): Able to see in the dark
Summon Undead (Level 4): Can summon more powerful undead
Deathless Vigor (Level 5): Gains three additional hit points per level
Undead Graft (Level 6): Replaces arm with an undead version that twice per day can paralyze opponents. At level 8 an additional use per day is gained.
Tough as Bone (Level 7): Immune to hold, paralyze, stun
Summon Greater Undead (Level 9): Can summon a very powerful undead creature, once per day
Deathless Mastery (Level 10): Immune to critical hits
Deathless Master Touch (Level 10): The undead arm graft can kill with just a touch. This ability may be used 3x/day.
Every 2 levels, the pale master gains additional spells per day, as if they had levelled in their previous spell caster class. This gain only applies to spells per day and not caster level.
Tip: Becoming a pale master
Sorcerers and wizards make powerful pale masters. Additional spellcasting ability is sacrificed for a stronger melee presence.
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Epic Pale Master
The pale master's bond with the undead continues to grow, as she becomes the epic pale master.
Hit Dice: d6
Skill Points at Each Additional Level: 2 + Int Modifier
Bonus Feats: The epic pale master gains a bonus feat every three levels
Special
Deathless Vigor: Every five levels an additional +5 permanent hit points are gained
Epic Pale Master Bonus Feats: Automatic Quicken Spell, Automatic Silent Spell, Automatic Still Spell, Energy Resistance, Epic Spell Focus, Epic Spell Penetration, Improved Combat Casting
Boneskin: Improves by +2 for every four levels past level 8
Undead Graft: Can use this supernatural attack an additional time per day for every 3 levels gained
Red Dragon Disciple
It is rumoured that the magical powers of sorcerers and bards are somehow connected to the presence of dragon blood in their family tree. Red Dragon Disciples are sorcerers, and sometimes bards, who use their magical power as a catalyst
to ignite their red dragon blood, realizing its fullest potential. They prefer a life of exploration to a cloistered existence. Already adept at magic, many pursue adventure, especially if it furthers their goal of finding out more about their draconic heritage. They often feel drawn to areas known to harbour dragons.
Hit Dice: d6. Special (see below)
Proficiencies: No additional proficiencies are gained
Skill Points: 2 + Int Modifier
To qualify as a dragon disciple, a character must fulfil all of the following criteria:
Class: Sorcerer or Bard
Skills: 8 Ranks in Lore
Abilities
Draconic Armour (Level 1): +1 to natural armour class. At levels 5, 8 and 10 this increases by an additional +1
Draconic Ability Scores (Level 2): Gains +2 to strength. Another +2 to Strength is gained at level 4, Constitution increases by +2 at level 7 and Intelligence increases by +2 at level 9. At level 10 Strength is increased by a further +4 and Charisma by +2.
Breath Weapon I (Level 3): Can use the breath weapon of a red dragon, doing 2d10 points of damage. At level 7 the damage increases to 4d10 and finally 6d10 at level 10.
Hit Dice d8 (Level 4): Now gains d8 hit points per level
Hit Dice d10 (Level 6): Hit-points gained are d10 per level
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Wings (Level 9): The dragon disciple gains wings
Half-Dragon (Level 10): Becomes a half-dragon. Gains darkvision and immunity to sleep, paralysis and fire
Tip: Becoming a red dragon disciple
Only sorcerers or bards can become a dragon disciple — either class is equally suited.
Epic Dragon Discipline
Embracing his draconic heritage is but one stop on the disciple's life journey. His quest to understand, command and harness his draconic energies has taken him into the realm of the epic.
Hit Dice: d12
Skill Points at Each Additional Level: 2 + Int Modifier
Bonus Feats: The epic dragon disciple gains a bonus feat every four levels
Epic Dragon Disciple Bonus Feats: Armour Skin, Automatic Quicken Spell, Automatic Silent Spell, Automatic Still Spell, Damage Reduction, Epic Reputation, Epic Spell Focus, Epic Prowess, Epic Spell Penetration, Epic Toughness, Improved Combat Casting
Special
Your breath weapon damage potential increases by 1d10 for every 3 levels after 10th.
The save DC against your breath weapon increases by +1 every 4 levels after 10th.
Shifter
A shifter has no form they call their own. Instead, they clothe themselves in whatever shape is most expedient at the time. While others base their identities largely on their external forms, the shifter actually comes closer to their true self through
all of their transformations. Of necessity, their sense of self is based not on their outward form, but on their soul, which is truly the only constant about them. It is the inner strength of that soul that enables them to take on any shape and remain themselves within.
Hit Dice: d8
Proficiencies: No additional proficiencies are gained
Skill Points: 4 + Int Modifier
To qualify as a shifter, a character must fulfil all of the following criteria:
Feats: Alertness
Spellcasting: level 3 or higher
Alternate Form: Must have a natural, alternate form (like Druid wildshape)
Abilities
Greater Wildshape I (Level 1): Change into either a red, green, black, white or blue wyrmling
Greater Wildshape II (Level 3): Change into a minotaur, a harpy or a gargoyle
Greater Wildshape III (Level 5): Change into a manticore, a basilisk or a 0
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Humanoid Shape (Level 7): Change into a variety of humanoid forms
Greater Wildshape IV (Level 10): Change into either a medusa, huge dire tiger or a mind flayer
Several of these forms grant the shifter the ability to use the form's innate powers. For example, a shifter changing into a white wyrmling can breath a cone of cold as often as they want. These powers are located on the Radial Menu option “Spell.” Some of these powers can be used an infinite number of times per day, others are restricted.
Tip: Becoming a shifter
Only druids can become shifters in Neverwinter Nights.
Epic Shifter
The epic shifter is a true master of shapeshifting and is able to become virtually any creature imaginable by choosing epic bonus feats.
Hit Dice: d8
Skill Points at Each Additional Level: 4 + Int Modifier
Bonus Feats: The epic shifter gains a bonus feat every three levels
Epic Shifter Bonus Feats: Automatic Quicken Spell, Automatic Silent Spell, Automatic Still Spell, Construct Form, Dragon Form, Energy Resistance, Epic Spell Focus, Epic Spell Penetration, Improved Combat Casting, Great Wisdom, Outsider Shape, Undead Shape
Shadowdancer
Operating in the border between light and darkness, shadowdancers are nimble artists of deception. They are mysterious and unknown, never completely trusted but always inducing wonder when met. Despite their link with shadows and
trickery, shadowdancers are as often good as evil. They may use their incredible abilities as they wish.
Shadowdancers often work in troupes, never staying in one place too long. Some use their abilities to entertain. Others operate as thieves, using their abilities to infiltrate past defences and dupe others. All shadowdancer troupes maintain an aura of mystery among the populace, who never know whether to think well or ill of them.
Note: The shadowdancer prestige class is available in the Neverwinter Nights: Shadows of Undrentide expansion pack (which is also a part of Neverwinter Nights Gold). If you do not have Shadows of Undrentide installed, shadowdancer will be unavailable.
For more information about the shadowdancer prestige class, reference the Shadows of Undrentide or the Neverwinter Nights Gold manuals.
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Epic Shadowdancer
The epic shadowdancer is almost indistinguishable from the darkness that cloaks her.
Hit Dice: d8
Skill Points at Each Additional Level: 6 + Int Modifier
Bonus Feats: The epic shadowdancer gains a bonus feat every three levels
Epic Shadowdancer Bonus Feats: Epic Blinding Speed, Epic Skill Focus, Epic Dodge, Epic Reflexes, Epic Shadow Lord, Improved Whirlwind Attack, SelfConcealment, Superior Initiative
Special
Summon Shadow: the summoned creature will gain an additional +2 Hit Dice for every three levels after 9th that the shadowdancer earns.
Shadow Evade: Gains an additional +2 to its damage reduction amount and an additional +1 to its ability to resist magical weapons for every five levels (i.e., a 15th level shadowdancer has 12/+4 damage reduction)
Weapon Master |
For a weapon master, perfection is found in the mastery of a single melee |
weapon. A weapon master seeks to unite this weapon of choice with the body, to |
make them one and to use the weapon as naturally and without thought as any other limb. |
Hit Dice: d10
Proficiencies: No additional proficiencies gained
Skill Points: 2 + Int Modifier
To qualify as a weapon master, a character must fulfil all of the following criteria:
Base Attack Bonus: +5
Feats: Weapon Focus in a melee weapon, Dodge, Mobility, Expertise, Spring Attack and Whirlwind
Skills: Intimidate 4 ranks
Abilities
Weapon of Choice (Level 1): The weapon master forms a powerful bond with one type of weapon. Whenever wielding this weapon type, he will get many additional benefits, which improve as he gains experiences
Ki Damage (Level 1): Once per day maximum damage can be dealt
Increased Multiplier (Level 5): The weapon of choice gains an additional 1x to its critical damage multiplier. (i.e., 2x becomes 3x, etc.)
Superior Weapon Focus (Level 5): An additional +1 is granted to all attack rolls made while wielding the weapon of choice
Ki Critical (Level 7): Add +2 to weapon of choice threat range
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Tip: Becoming a Weapon Master
A fighter makes a very strong candidate for becoming a weapon master. The weapon master requires access to several feats, so make certain that your character has at least a dexterity of 13 and an intelligence of 13.
Epic Weapon Master
The weapon master's bond with his weapon of choice becomes stronger and devastatingly effective as he becomes the epic weapon master.
Hit Dice: d10
Skill Points at Each Additional Level: 2 + Int Modifier
Bonus Feats: The epic weapon master gains a bonus feat every three levels
Epic Weapon Master Bonus Feats: Armour Skin, Damage Reduction, Devastating Critical, Blinding Speed, Epic Toughness, Epic Prowess, Epic Weapon Focus, Improved Whirlwind Attack, Overwhelming Critical, Superior Initiative
Special
Superior Weapon Focus: For every five levels gained an additional +1 to attack is granted to the Weapon of Choice
SKILLS
You should focus your character on skills that best accent his capabilities and role.
Note: To receive a bonus from a skill, you must put at least one point in that skill when you level up your character.
Updated: The skill Use Magic Device has been modified slightly to fit closer to the DUNGEONS & DRAGONS™ rules. If the difficulty mode of the game is set to Hardcore or higher, to cast a spell from a scroll, a DC check of 25 + the level of the spell.
Appraise
The higher the character’s skill, the more money that character can expect to receive when selling goods and the less that character will have to pay when
buying goods.
Ability: Intelligence
Classes: All
Untrained: No
Check: None
Use: Automatic in stores
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Bluff
The character can make the outrageous or the untrue seem plausible. The skill encompasses acting, conning, fast-talking, misdirection and misleading body language.
Ability: Charisma
Classes: All
Untrained: Yes
Check: The more difficult the con, the more difficult the check
Use: Selected in dialog
Craft Armour
The character knows how to create all types of armour from different materials. See the Crafting section on Page 51 for more detail.
Ability: Intelligence
Classes: All
Untrained: Yes
Check: Based on the difficulty to craft this particular item (see in-game crafting menu)
Use: Use crafting component
Craft Trap
The character using this skill can combine raw components to form various trap kits. Some traps require the use of new grenade-like weapons.
Ability: Intelligence
Classes: All
Untrained: Yes
Check: The DC is determined by the type of trap being created
Use: Selected
Here are some of the traps the character can create and the components required to make them:
Fire: Alchemist’s Fire Flask
Tangle Trap: Tangle foot Bag
Spike Trap: Caltrops
Holy Trap: Holy Water
Electrical Trap: Quartz
Gas Trap: Choking Powder
Frost Trap: Coldstone
Negative Trap: Skeleton Knuckles
Sonic Trap: Thunderstone
Acid Splash Trap: Acid Flask
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