What You Will Learn about Crusader Builds
Crusader Builds we’ll be covering:
- Apatrid Knight[1]: This well-rounded warrior excels in both offense and defense, making it a perfect choice for front-line combat.
- Blue Moon Knight[2]: This nimble fighter uses its agility and luck to outmaneuver its enemies.
- Hammer of Moradin[3]: This sturdy defender has unmatched resilience and striking power.
- Ironclad Redeemer[4]: This guardian’s armor makes it almost impervious to attacks.
- Wee-Jas’s Temple Guard[5]: This stealthy guardian uses its divine edge to blend into the shadows.
| Build | Pros | Drawbacks |
|---|---|---|
| Apatrid Knight[1] | – Steely Resolve delays damage for increased survivability. | – Heavy armor limits movement. |
| – Furious Counterstrike provides powerful counterattacks. | – Difficulty with enemies bypassing traditional defenses. | |
| – Ideal for defensive play as the party’s anchor. | – Needs consistent damage for effective Furious Counterstrike. | |
| Blue Moon Knight[2] | – Exceptional nimbleness for evading attacks. | – Less health than other builds, requiring caution. |
| – Shape-shifting offers adaptability and unpredictability. | – Risky reliance on transformation. | |
| – Holy fortune and throwing expertise provide unique fighting. | – Requires tactical thinking for optimal performance. | |
| Hammer of Moradin[3] | – Unmatched toughness and ability to endure heavy damage. | – High armor class makes direct attacks ineffective. |
| – Strong attack power with a warhammer. | – Not as strong as more attack-focused builds. | |
| – Excellent for tanking as an immovable force. | – Heavy armor can slow down actions and reduce mobility. | |
| Wee-Jas’s Temple Guard[5] | – Can hide in heavy armor for tactical advantages. | – Struggles in prolonged face-to-face fights. |
| – Combines Crusader durability with stealth and divine magic. | – Relies on positioning and surprise, challenging to maintain. | |
| – Great for players preferring stealthy strategic combat. | – Divine powers require thoughtful resource management. |
Crusader Builds from The Glass Walker’s Guide
Each of these Crusader builds has its own unique strengths in combat and role-playing. To get a real feel for what they can do, let’s look at how they perform in battle and how they can influence your campaigns.
Apatrid Knight[1] – Defensiveness
A defensive fighter, adept at absorbing damage and counterattacking, and evolves into a balanced warrior who excels both offensively and defensively.
- Start by enhancing skills that boost defense and enable counterattacks.
- Gradually integrate offensive capabilities to become more well-rounded.
- Equip shields and armor that provide bonuses to both attack and defense.
Check out the build HERE!
Blue Moon Knight[2] – Infinity
Initially a guerrilla fighter using transformation and cleric abilities for surprise attacks, the Blue Moon Knight[2] becomes a master of disruption and agility, dominating with throwing skills.
- Utilize transformation spells and cleric buffs to surprise and outmaneuver foes.
- Develop agility and proficiency with thrown weapons for ranged control.
- Choose gear that enhances both cleric abilities and physical agility.
Check out the build HERE!
Hammer of Moradin[3] – Dominance
- Concentrate on improving warhammer proficiency and defensive stances.
- Expand capabilities to include powerful offensive combos and resilience skills.
- Equip with heavy armor and weapons that boost both defense and attack power.
Check out the build HERE!
Ironclad Redeemer[4] – Armored
The Ironclad Redeemer[4] starts as an armored counterattacker and evolves into an unbeatable guardian with unmatched defensive skills, punishing enemies for targeting them.
- Focus on counterattack techniques and armor enhancements.
- Develop into a formidable defender with skills that penalize attackers.
- Choose defensive gear that increases survivability and counterstrike potential.
Check out the build HERE!
Wee-Jas’s Temple Guard[5] – Stealthy
Starting as a stealthy tank capable of both ambushing and enduring attacks, the Wee-Jas’s Temple Guard[5] matures into a divine shadow striker, blending stealth with divine power to control the battlefield.
- Invest in stealth skills and heavy armor for initial survivability and surprise.
- Integrate divine powers to enhance combat effectiveness and battlefield control.
- Select equipment that supports both stealth operations and divine spellcasting.
Check out the build HERE!
FAQ
How can I select the optimal Crusader build for my character?
Opting for the most suitable of Crusader builds relies on your favorite playstyle and the role you aim to fulfill within your team. Contemplate whether you take pleasure in being at the forefront, backing up from the sidelines, or managing the battlefield. Reflect on your most memorable times from previous games—did you delight in enduring a storm of assaults, or did you take more pleasure in outwitting your adversaries with smart tactics? Your responses to these inquiries will lead you to one of the Crusader builds that will provide you with the most enjoyment and fulfillment.
Can I modify these Crusader Builds for unique campaigns?
Of course! Every Crusader build is a basic framework, a blank slate ready for your personal flair. No matter if your campaign is high-fantasy, horror-based, or set in a completely original world, these builds can be modified to suit. The key is to adjust the skills and abilities to the narratives you wish to explore. Feel free to adjust or mix elements from different builds to make a character that’s uniquely yours.
What are the role-playing advantages of these Crusader Builds?
Each Crusader build offers unique role-playing advantages. The Apatrid Knight[1], for example, is a shining example of chivalry and bravery, perfect for players who enjoy playing the role of the classic hero. The Blue Moon Knight[2] is a combination of mystery and mischief, making it a great choice for those who enjoy surprising their fellow players. The Hammer of Moradin[3] is a symbol of tradition and strength, which will appeal to players who value honor and resilience. The Ironclad Redeemer[4] is a protector, a role that will resonate with players who find satisfaction in protecting their allies. Finally, the Wee-Jas’s Temple Guard[5] operates in the shadows, offering a rich narrative for players who enjoy a more nuanced, stealthy approach to heroism.
What role does a deity play in Crusader builds?
When it comes to building a Crusader, the deity you choose can play a significant role in shaping your character’s abilities and their place within the party. Each deity has its own domains and favored weapons, which can be a great complement to your build. For example, a Hammer of Moradin[3] might worship Moradin due to his ties to creation and craftsmanship, gaining domain powers that enhance his already impressive strength. Alternatively, a Wee-Jas’s Temple Guard[5] might choose to worship Wee-Jas’s, gaining access to domains that boost her stealth and magic abilities. Therefore, when choosing a deity, think about how their domains and tenets can align with and enhance your Crusader’s journey.
- Think about the domains and favored weapons of your chosen deity.
- Make sure your deity’s tenets align with your character’s backstory and motivations.
- Let your deity’s influence shape your character’s approach to combat and role-playing.
What mistakes should I avoid when creating Crusader builds?
It’s simple to get carried away with the excitement of developing a strong character when crafting your Crusader. Still, there are a few things to watch out for. First of all, never undervalue the significance of having a well-rounded character. You should balance your combat skills with other useful abilities outside of the battlefield. Second, keep in mind that your Crusader’s skills should be complementary to those of the other members of your party; interaction with other players is essential. Finally, remember to think about the flavor and backstory of your character. Your build should flow naturally from the story your group is telling and make sense narratively.
Join the Conversation
Have you created a Crusader that has withstood the test of time and left a lasting impression on your gaming group? Or perhaps you’re in the process of creating a new legend? Share your experiences, insights, and stories of your Crusader’s heroic deeds with a community of fellow enthusiasts.
We Want to Hear From You
Whether you’re a veteran player with tales to share or a rookie looking for some tips, your input is important. Share your creative builds, seek advice, and learn from what others have gone through. Your next quest is waiting, and it’s better because you’re a part of it.
Authors
Terms definitions
1. ↑ Crusader – Apatrid Knight – D&D 3.5 ( Apatrid Knight )
Categories: D&D 3.5 Character Builds, D&D 3.5 Crusader Builds
Apatrid Knight
The woman in full plate armor watched the group of adventurers leave back toward the Capital. But she wouldn’t follow them. She was fighting the same fight as they were, but on a different front. The errant knight left toward the small town down the road, overrun by the dead.
She felt it, corruption once again filled the heart of man. She could hear it in the moaning of the mad
See it in the eyes of the damned.
Her path led her to the small town, where the smell of sulfur permeated the air, and where a gate to Hell itself had been opened.
The Crusade called her, and so, she went.
Race
Human
Class
Crusader 12/Knight 5/Human Paragon 3
Ability Scores
Str 16/Dex 14/Con 14/Int 10/Wis 10/Cha 14
Skills
Diplomacy, Intimidate, Martial Lore, Concentration, Hide
Equipment
A Longsword, a Heavy Shield and the best armor you can afford.
Goal
I wanted to build the closest build to D3’s Crusader and not only did I succeed, but the build is ridiculously tanky. Between Bulwark of Defense and Steely Resolve, plus Test of Mettle, you are probably one of if not the best tank build in 3.5. Capable of dishing out the pain as much as taking hits that would kill your spellcasters like it was nothing, the ability to twf using your shield and your sword together, and with your maneuvers and stances cranking all that to 11 makes you one of the best frontliners one could ask for.
| Level | Class | HD | Feat | Special |
| 1 | Crusader | 12 | Extra Granted Maneuver, Stone Power | Furious Counterstrike, Steely Resolve 5 |
| 2 | Crusader | 1d10+2 | – | Indomitable Soul |
| 3 | Crusader | 1d10+2 | Improved Shield Bash | Zealous Surge |
| 4 | Human Paragon | 1d8+2 | – | Adaptive Learning, +1 Dex |
| 5 | Human Paragon | 1d8+2 | Two-Weapons Fighting | – |
| 6 | Human Paragon | 1d8+8 | Oversized Two-Weapons Fighting | +2 Con |
| 7 | Knight | 1d12+3 | – | Fighting Challenge +1, Knight’s Challenge, Knight’s Code |
| 8 | Knight | 1d12+3 | Mounted Combat | Shield Block +1, +1 Str |
| 9 | Knight | 1d12+3 | Combat Reflexes | Bulwark of Defense |
| 10 | Knight | 1d12+3 | – | Armor Mastery(Medium), Test of Mettle |
| 11 | Knight | 1d12+3 | Ride-By Attack | Vigilant Defender |
| 12 | Crusader | 1d10+3 | Stand Still | Steely Resolve 10, +1 Str |
| 13 | Crusader | 1d10+3 | – | – |
| 14 | Crusader | 1d10+3 | – | Smite 1/Day |
| 15 | Crusader | 1d10+3 | Robilar’s Gambit | – |
| 16 | Crusader | 1d10+3 | – | Steely Resolve 15, +1 Str |
| 17 | Crusader | 1d10+3 | – | – |
| 18 | Crusader | 1d10+3 | Diehard, Shield Specialization(Heavy) | – |
| 19 | Crusader | 1d10+3 | – | – |
| 20 | Crusader | 1d10+3 | – | Steely Resolve 20, +1 Str |
2. ↑ Crusader – Blue Moon Knight – D&D 3.5 ( Blue Moon Knight )
Categories: D&D 3.5 Character Builds, D&D 3.5 Crusader Builds
Blue Moon Knight
The young halfling watched as the group of adventurers were fighting against the gigantic red dragon who was guarding the fourth part of the Fivefold Enigma. Part of her wanted to join in, as she was toying with the golden shuriken she had in her hands.
She was sitting high in the tree, camouflaged by its leaves. From there, she could see the battle slowly turning against the group. She let out a sigh.
-Do I really have to help them here?
She got up, made herself bleed with the shuriken. Then cast a minor healing spell that she imbued with her Goddess’s luck. Jumping in the air and taking her bird form, she was quickly in reach of the beast. Seizing the opportunity while airborne, she rapidly switched back to her halfling form and threw her golden shuriken at the beast. As the weapon hit the dragon, purple crackling energy erupted from the point of contact. Suddenly, the dragon exploded.
Dropping to the ground before the bewildered group, she shrugged, a smug smile on her face.
“Hey, when you wanna kill a dragon you gotta do it right”, she said in her smarmy tone.
Race
Halfling
Class
Werechordevoc 1/Crusader 13/Cleric of Dallah Thaun 1/Master Thrower 5(2 LA Buyback)
Ability Scores
Str 10/Dex 19/Con 14/Int 10/Wis 11/Cha 12
Skills
Sleight of Hand 4
Equipment
A sling at first, plus a shortsword. Eventually Alchemical Gold Shurikens. A Chainshirt.
Flaws
Murky Eyed, Pathetic(Wis)
Goals
This is Chordevoc:
Chordevocs are a breed of nocturnal hawks used by halflings for hunting. You are a cleric of the Chaotic Neutral side of Yondalla, the goddess of halflings. With Imbued Healing, after casting any healing spell for a full minute all the weapon damage rolls you roll that end on a 1 on the die are counted as a roll of two.
With Alchemical Golden Shurikens, your damage die goes to 1d2, meaning you always roll the maximum on your damage roll.
Then you get your Aura of Chaos stance, which makes it that whenever you roll max damage, you can roll another die of damage, as long as you keep rolling maximum. Which you always do. Meaning you deal infinite damage with a shuriken if it hits. You eventually always attack touch AC, meaning you damn near can’t miss ever. Enjoy one of the top 5 strongest combo in D&D 3.5
| Level | Class | HD | Feat | Special |
| 1 | Werechordevoc | 10 | Flyby Attack, Weapon Finesse, Point-Blank Shot, Precise Shot | Lycanthrope, DR 10/Silver |
| 2 | Cleric | 1d8+2 | – | Turn Undead, Domains: Luck, Trickery |
| 3 | Crusader | 1d10+2 | Imbued Healing | Furious Counterstrike, Steely Resolve 5 |
| 4 | Crusader | 1d10+2 | – | Indomitable Soul, +1 Dex |
| 5 | Crusader | 1d10+2 | – | Zealous Surge |
| 6 | Crusader | 1d10+2 | Exotic Weapon Proficiency(Gold Shurikens) | Steely Resolve 10 |
| 7 | Crusader | 1d10+2 | – | – |
| 8 | Crusader | 1d10+2 | – | Smite 1/Day, +1 Dex |
| 9 | Crusader | 1d10+2 | Rapid Shot | – |
| 10 | Crusader | 1d10+2 | – | Steely Resolve 15 |
| 11 | Crusader | 1d10+2 | – | – |
| 12 | Crusader | 1d10+2 | Weapon Focus(Gold Shuriken), Diehard | +1 Dex |
| 13 | Crusader | 1d10+2 | – | – |
| 14 | Crusader | 1d10+2 | – | Steely Resolve 20 |
| 15 | Crusader | 1d10+2 | Martial Stance(Aura of Chaos) | Mettle |
| 16 | Master Thrower | 1d8+2 | Quick Draw | Palm Throw, +1 Dex |
| 17 | Master Thrower | 1d8+2 | – | Evasion |
| 18 | Master Thrower | 1d8+2 | Darkstalker | Two with One Blow |
| 19 | Master Thrower | 1d8+2 | Snatch Arrow | – |
| 20 | Master Thrower | 1d8+2 | – | Critical Throw, Weak Spot, +1 Dex |
3. ↑ Crusader – Hammer of Moradin – D&D 3.5 ( Hammer of Moradin )
Categories: D&D 3.5 Character Builds, D&D 3.5 Crusader Builds
Hammer of Moradin
Deep in the Temple-Forge of Moradin, several dwarves were hard at work, forging amazing sets of armor and weapons of a quality unheard of. Sitting on a throne, a stony dwarf, his tower shield on his side, his warhammer between his legs, was waiting. The group of adventurers had defeated St-Cuthbert’s guardian, and now they were coming to him. Their trial in the halls of Moradin would not be as simple as a simple duel. No, not only would they be facing the Hammers of Moradin, the highest order of crusaders dedicated to the dwarfs father, but they would have to forge the weapons they would use for the trial.
Race
Mineral Warrior Dwarf
Class
Crusader 9/Dwarven Defender 3/Deepstone Sentinel 5/Dwarf Paragon 3 (1 LA Buyback)
Ability Scores
Str 16/Dex 10/Con 22/Int 10/Wis 10/Cha 10
Skills
Balance 13
Equipment
Warhammer, Heavy Shield(eventually a Tower Shield), the best armor you can afford.
Goal
You are the dwarfiest dwarf of all. You can burrow, use Stone Dragon maneuvers to crush the bones of your enemies, but you are also an island in the storm of battle that can resist the hardest assaults and shrug off the worst attacks with barely a scratch. Your AC is extremely high, and even if your enemies do touch you, they get punished by fuelling your Furious Counterstrike and other abilities. Your HPs are so high that you could take on a dragon 1vs1 and not necessarily lose.
| Level | Class | HD | Feat | Special |
| 1 | Crusader | 16 | Stone Power | Furious Counterstrike, Steely Resolve 5 |
| 2 | Crusader | 1d10+6 | – | Indomitable Soul |
| 3 | Crusader | 1d10+6 | Dodge | Zealous Surge |
| 4 | Crusader | 1d10+6 | – | Steely Resolve 10, Con +1 |
| 5 | Crusader | 1d10+6 | – | – |
| 6 | Crusader | 1d10+6 | Endurance | Smite 1/Day |
| 7 | Crusader | 1d10+6 | – | – |
| 8 | Dwarf Paragon | 1d10+14 | – | Craft Expertise, Improved Stonecunning, +1 Con |
| 9 | Dwarf Paragon | 1d10+10 | Toughness | Improved Darkvision +30 ft., Bonus Saves |
| 10 | Dwarf Paragon | 1d10+17 | – | +2 Con |
| 11 | Deepstone Sentinel | 1d10+8 | – | Mountain Fortress Stance, Passwall |
| 12 | Deepstone Sentinel | 1d10+20 | Improved Toughness | Crashing Mountain Juggernaut, +1 Con |
| 13 | Deepstone Sentinel | 1d10+9 | – | Indomitable Redoubt |
| 14 | Deepstone Sentinel | 1d10+9 | – | Stone Curse, Dragon’s Tooth |
| 15 | Deepstone Sentinel | 1d10+9 | Power Attack | Awaken the Stone Dragon |
| 16 | Dwarven Defender | 1d12+25 | – | Defensive Stance 1/Day, AC +1, +1 Con |
| 17 | Dwarven Defender | 1d12+10 | – | Uncanny Dodge |
| 18 | Dwarven Defender | 1d12+10 | Weapon Focus(Warhammer) | Defensive Stance 2/Day |
| 19 | Crusader | 1d10+10 | – | Steely Resolve 15 |
| 20 | Crusader | 1d10+10 | – | +1 Con |
4. ↑ Crusader – Ironclad Redeemer – D&D 3.5 ( Ironclad Redeemer )
Categories: D&D 3.5 Character Builds, D&D 3.5 Crusader Builds
Ironclad Redeemer
The man was praying before the altar to St-Cuthbert. The time had come. His friend from the Temple of Sharess told him of the coming darkness, and that which the group of adventurers were trying to stop. They would eventually come to claim one part of the fivefold enigma that was required to unseal the secret hiding place of THAT thing. He caressed his heavy mace. Let them come, he thought, and face their trial…
Race
Human
Class
Crusader 20
Ability Scores
Str 16/Dex 10/Con 16/Int 10/Wis 10/Cha 14
Skills
Diplomacy, Intimidate, Knowledge(Religion), Martial Lore, Concentration
Equipment
Heavy Mace, Heavy Shield, the best armor you can afford
Goal
Crusader has been referred to as the best tank class in d&d 3.5. Frankly, that notion is wrong. It is the best tank class by an order of magnitude. Steely Resolve+Stone Power+your Devoted Spirit Maneuvers and Stance make you as close as immortal as you can be, all the while healing your allies, and with Goad, you can force opponents to fight you, and with Furious Counterattack, you still deal enough damage to force targets to deal with you if they don’t want their skulls bashed in.
| Level | Class | HD | Feat | Special |
| 1 | Crusader | 13 | Stone Power, Power Attack | Furious Counterstrike, Steely Resolve 5 |
| 2 | Crusader | 1d10+3 | – | Indomitable Soul |
| 3 | Crusader | 1d10+3 | Shield Bash | Zealous Surge |
| 4 | Crusader | 1d10+3 | – | Steely Resolve 10, +1 Con |
| 5 | Crusader | 1d10+3 | – | – |
| 6 | Crusader | 1d10+3 | Goad | Smite 1/Day |
| 7 | Crusader | 1d10+3 | – | – |
| 8 | Crusader | 1d10+11 | – | Steely Resolve 15, +1 Con |
| 9 | Crusader | 1d10+13 | Improved Toughness | – |
| 10 | Crusader | 1d10+5 | Diehard | – |
| 11 | Crusader | 1d10+5 | – | – |
| 12 | Crusader | 1d10+5 | Weapon Focus(Heavy Mace) | Steely Resolve 20, +1 Con |
| 13 | Crusader | 1d10+5 | – | Mettle |
| 14 | Crusader | 1d10+5 | – | – |
| 15 | Crusader | 1d10+5 | Improved Bullrush | – |
| 16 | Crusader | 1d10+21 | – | Steely Resolve 25, +1 Con |
| 17 | Crusader | 1d10+6 | – | – |
| 18 | Crusader | 1d10+6 | Shock Trooper | Smite 2/Day |
| 19 | Crusader | 1d10+6 | – | – |
| 20 | Crusader | 1d10+6 | – | Steely Resolve 30, +1 Con |
5. ↑ Crusader – Wee-Jas’s Temple Guard – D&D 3.5 ( Temple Guard )
Categories: D&D 3.5 Character Builds, D&D 3.5 Crusader Builds
Wee-Jas’s Temple Guard
As one passes in front of Wee-Jas’s temple, one can see several figures dressed in black and red, wearing a porcelain mask depicting the visage of their goddesses and carrying as weaponry a pair of daggers with a ruby pommel. They stand completely immobile for hours at times, as if they were eternal guardians, undying and untouched by time. Rumors are that those you see are here as a distraction, and that those that, despite their plate armor, hide and move about in the dark, are those that would actually react to any assault against the Temple. What is certain however, is that the rumors about the Temple Guards of Wee-Jas are one of the most deep rabbit holes people in the Capital would dare investigate.
Race
Necropolitan Human
Class
Crusader 5/Cleric 5/Ruby Knight Vindicator 10
Ability Scores
Str 14/Dex 16/Con -/Int 10/Wis 15/Cha 14
Skills
Hide 4, Intimidate 4, Knowledge(Religion) 8
Equipment
A Pair of Daggers, the best armor you can afford
Flaws
Shaky, Murky Eyed
Goal
Between being Undead, giving you d12 HDs regardless of class, your ridiculous tanking abilities, your many crusader maneuvers, the ability to stealth while in Full plate armor, and the ability to cast cleric spells all the way to 7th level make you a downright terrifying opponent, and an extremely versatile combatant who can act as a scout, a face, a frontliner, a tank and even decently at ranged, there are very few scenarios you don’t have something in your backpocket to deal with it rapidly. Lifesense+Darkstalker makes you the ultimate scout without even trying.
| Level | Class | HD | Feat | Special |
| 1 | Crusader | 12 | Cosmopolitan(Hide), Weapon Finesse, Darkstalker, Lifesense | Furious Counterstrike, Steely Resolve 5 |
| 2 | Crusader | 1d12 | – | Indomitable Soul |
| 3 | Crusader | 1d12 | Two-Weapons Fighting | Zealous Surge |
| 4 | Crusader | 1d12 | – | Steely Resolve 10, +1 Dex |
| 5 | Cleric | 1d12 | – | Rebuke Undead, Domains: Magic, Death |
| 6 | Ruby Knight Vindicator | 1d12 | Combat Reflexes | – |
| 7 | Ruby Knight Vindicator | 1d12 | – | Divine Recovery |
| 8 | Ruby Knight Vindicator | 1d12 | – | +1 Dex |
| 9 | Ruby Knight Vindicator | 1d12 | Improved Two-Weapons Fighting | – |
| 10 | Ruby Knight Vindicator | 1d12 | – | Armored Stealth |
| 11 | Ruby Knight Vindicator | 1d12 | – | – |
| 12 | Ruby Knight Vindicator | 1d12 | Two-Weapons Rend | Divine Impetus, +1 Dex |
| 13 | Ruby Knight Vindicator | 1d12 | – | – |
| 14 | Ruby Knight Vindicator | 1d12 | – | Divine Fury |
| 15 | Ruby Knight Vindicator | 1d12 | Greater Two-Weapons Fighting | – |
| 16 | Cleric | 1d12 | – | +1 Wis |
| 17 | Cleric | 1d12 | – | – |
| 18 | Cleric | 1d12 | Stand Still | – |
| 19 | Cleric | 1d12 | – | – |
| 20 | Crusader | 1d12 | – | +1 Wis |
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