[True_Moose]

I was thinking about building a BG2 powergaming party, built and based on the IWD2 Powergaming Party, found at Gamefaqs.com and elsewhere. Rather than heavily slanted towards one side (ie 6 Sorcerers), I want a diverse range of abilities and equipment. My base party, as I thought of it:

Ranger (7)d/Cleric => Dual Wielding Crom and FOA. Dual immediately for quicker spell regaining along with quicker progression. Can cast both druid and cleric spells (unfortunately, not druid HLAs), and starts with 2 Xs in dual-wielding, as well as lots of proficiencies. Ultimately, will be a main tank.

Kensai (13)d/Thief => Dual Wielding DotS or SSoM with Angurvadal. Duals at 13 for max APR. Can quickly disable opponents with backstab, and will have no problems at all once he reaches ToB levels with Use Any Item. Secondary tank, though not too much tankage should be needed.

Kensai (13)d/Mage => I know, I know, I hear your groans. However, still one of the most powerful combos out there. Using halberds (Ravager) and two handed swords (GtsoG), so that he can stand behind others as he attacks, if necessary. Secondary mage, and main buff caster.

Cleric/Mage (Multi) => The walking encyclopedialmanactionaryography of magic. Knows all spells except for druid specific, but we already have those. Basically, turns himself into a tank (using Storm Star and the Darksteel Shield, after buffing), and wreaks all kinds of unholy havoc, as well as providing valuable extra cures, buffs, and cannonning.

Sorcerer => Bombardier. 'nuff said. He can solo, but his power is only enhanced, as he no longer needs as many summons as a normal sorcerer would, and can concentrate almost full-out on the damaging spells. This guy is killer.

The last character I am hung up on. I am undecided. A berserker/cleric would be nice as a secondary self-buffing tank, BUT we have the issue of running out of quality blunt weapons. An archer or inquisitor would fit nicely, your suggestions much appreciated.

And now, some ground rules:
1) Mods are all well and good, but I want this party to be able to be played unmodded. No FArchers or Anti-Paladins please.
2) No cheese. Powergaming-munchkinism is good, but don't be saying how powerful a character is because he can set X number of traps on spawn points, or can cloudkill from offscreen. These guys can win in a straight up fight.
3) This may eventually take FAQ form, so any rationale or strategies would be appreciated. I want to do this as an ongoing project, so your help would be greatly appreciated.
4) Please, no powergaming vs roleplaying debates. I respect both sides, but for this particular exercise, I am going the powergaming route. Please, don't turn this thread into an argument. [img]smile.gif[/img]

If you have any questions, e-mail me, it's in my profile.