John,
Thanks for starting this.
Harliquinn wrote:
I wanted to open up a thread for suggestions on how Archetype Disparity (real or perceived) might be addressed if there were a rules update (Either errata, supplement or even Arcanis v1.5).
I'll start with Archetypes...I also welcome feedback, criticism (constructive), other suggestions or even completely new thoughts on the matter.
Archetype - Character Generation
<snip>Expert: Currently, there is nothing 'unique' that the Expert Archetype offers that other Archetypes do not also offer during character generation.
They ignore requirements and immediately gain the benefits of their skill talents. Taking Adaptation helps them pick any 2 skills for extra ranks with an ability to still add one at the end. They can take Encyclopedic Memory with has a 9 rank requirement but no tier requirement. As such they gain the benefits immediately at Tier 1.1, don't need 3 knowledge skills or Eclectic Knowledge. They could take Secret Lore at start as well which requires Encyclopedic Memory for example. The ability to take the talents and ignore the requirements has tangible benefits.
Harliquinn wrote:
<snip>Martial: The one 'unique' thing Martial Archetypes get is Advanced Armor Training. To date I'm unaware of any other way to get this Talent and it's uses for a Martial Archetype are well known. EDIT: I've been told Squires get this in errata. I've no idea why as it doesn't make sense, but apparently it's no longer unique.
Martial can also ignore the requirements on a Martial Technique at start making Rapid Shot accessible and Sweeping Strike accessible to non-might builds. Also, while Advanced Armor Training isn't exclusive it is still limited to Martial and Squire. As to why Squire, I have no idea. I asked specifically about it going into the last round of errata and was told it was intentional.
Harliquinn wrote:
Suggestions (Changes I'd recommend to make the Archetypes feel special and give them at least one thing other Archetypes can't poach)
I agree with the principle, I need time to think about the specific suggestions.
<snip>
Harliquinn wrote:
Archetype - Advancements
Each Archetype should be able to advance their core capabilities better than any other Archetype, while still providing flexibility for multiple builds. Here are my thoughts on the current Advancements and suggestions to fix the problems I see.
I agree with many of the suggestions. Martial still has no social skill it can advance. My original suggestions for additional skills to add to the Martial list in whole or in part were Intimidate, Beast Lore and Heal.
Depending on where the archetype comparison analysis nets out may provide other suggestion for changes to character creation or advancements.
I'll try and find time over the next day or so to think about these suggestions more. I still feel the scope of the problem needs to be defined before solutions can be worked.
With a sweep of his hat,
Paul