What would the experienced soloists out there consider the most challenging solo classes - top two or three?

Kensai, especially with all the mods out there. There are many areas and encounters in the game I can't picture a Kensai being able to deal with at all.

<font color="gold">I'd say a Beast Master. Being Rangers who can't use metal-weapons or armour really isn't easy. ;) </font>

Beast master has got my vote. Their restrictions heavily outweigh their special abilities (or is that ability? Non-plural).

Yes I agree definetly beastmaster IIRC they can't wear metal armour as well as not being able to use metal weapons very challenging. Jim soloed a beastmaster so if you plan on soloing one and have any questions he's your man.

After going through BGII w/ tactics on hard with a necromancer, I thought I'd try something more challenging - I only had difficulty with two battles - improved Bodhi and improved Irenicus (installed tactics post Irenicus dungeon, so I didn't meet up with improved Ilyich).

If beastmaster is considered most-challenging, then I think I will undertake it.

If Jim is out there, do you have any advice on beastmasters?

I dare not speaking for Jim, but i think i know what he'll have in mind... Three words:
Staff, of, Ram.
Well, +6, but that's not really a word... [img]tongue.gif[/img]

I have a few pointers too [img]smile.gif[/img]
Get boots of speed as soon as possible, because you'll be running a lot
try to invent a self-ressurect kit

I dunno. Beastmaster has potential. Get two *s in staves, then two handed weapons, and use Staff of Rhynn. Also, there are all those wonderful elemental staves, as well as a golem slaying staff. Also, with points already in dual wielding, you could switch out and use Blackblood and the Gnasher for most occasions. Being a Ranger means big hit points, some spell casting, healing, as for armor Shadow Dragon scale is one of the best armors in the game for almost any class. Really, the Beast Master is an ok class, it just looks bad at first. Heck, AC is not really an issue. Multiple castings of Armor of Faith can make you nearly immune to physical melee damage.

As for useless classes, only one comes to mind. I HATE Wizard Slayers. Not really big on fighters period.

armor of faith stacks?!