This is my first post, which is kind of unnerving in a strange sort of way. So I'd just like to start off by saying hi.

Anyway, I just started playing BG2 about a month ago, and I'm wondering about the Swashbuckler kit. Is the lack of a backstabbing multiplier singificant, or does the added combat bonuses and extra slot for 2-weapon fighting style compensate enough? I was also thinking about a fighter/thief multiclass, but I think I'd rather stay single classed. What would you guys (and gals) suggest?

Thanks in advance.

<font color="lightblue">If you like backstabbing, no it doesn`t.
If you like frontal assault, it more than compensates.

A fighter/thief multiclass has the warrior`s THACO and Hit Points, aswell as the thieves abilities; so if you like backstabbing, it is VERY good... hide in shadows + better chance to hit. BUT, they level slowly. So if you`re aiming for a high level character, a single class is better.

In the end, it all depends on your playing style [img]smile.gif[/img] </font>

Hi and welcome to the board!!

While I generally agree with what LennonCook says, there are some other things you might want to consider in the case of the thief. Eventually a single class thief will get to the point that gaining a level will not really help his abilities; after all, why should a 150% value in Open Locks matter when all one needs is 100%? A multi- or dual classed thief gives you greater flexibility in the long haul.

Personally, I like the Swashbuckler multiclass, especially with the "dual-wield" trait. Give him profs in longsword, katana, and dual wield, get the Celestial Fury from the Guarded Compound and Blade of Roses (from CC), and you've got a powerhouse.

Since s/he has no backstab multiplier, add points toward trap setting and illusion detection after filling up the obligatory "Find Traps" and "Open Locks" skills.

Oh, and make sure to download the "Enhanced Thief Stronghold" mod if you're going to play a thief...it makes Mae'Vars guild a lot more interesting to work though. ;)

-Sazerac

[ 10-07-2002, 09:48 AM: Message edited by: Sazerac ]

where can i get this mod, and what changes does it implement?

Take a look at the link I just posted above. ;)

It adds a lot of quests and experience onto the Thieves' Guild, so you're not just micromanaging a bunch of thieves (you still do that, though).

A) Enhances Mae'Var and his minions during the Stronghold quest, to where they are formidable foes

B) Enhances the random encounters you find around Athkatla (optional install)

C) Adds Narlen Darkwalk (the cant-spouting thief from Baldur's Gate) and Black Lily back into your guild for some added quests and more treasure (including a bag of holding early on)

I thoroughly enjoyed playing the mod, and it doesn't mess with any other script or existing quest in the game.

-Saz

The lack of a backstab multiplier isn't a problem since by level 40 they'll have +8 to hit and damage from the kit abilities, an additional +2 damage from the weapon proficiencies, a extra attack per round from dual wielding and not to mention the significant AC bonuses they get (+9 AC by level 40). So, they have much more combat potential than a plain thief. To summarise....Swashbuckler all the way!!!

[EDIT]BTW welcome to the board [img]smile.gif[/img] [/EDIT]

[ 10-07-2002, 09:57 AM: Message edited by: Jim ]

thanks for the link. BTW, i prefer a kensai/thief. Kai+backstab=lots of pain [img]smile.gif[/img]

[img]graemlins/thewave.gif[/img] WELCOME TO IRONWORKS!!!!!

Swashbuckle eh.........first class and kit I tried and let me think about it mmmmmmm it annoyed me very much that I could not backstab at all but I know that the swashbuckler is a decent fighter.

Woops I meant heh [img]graemlins/thewave.gif[/img] WELCOME TO ESCAPE GAMING! (Its going be tough saying escape gaming instead of Ironworks......)