At Level 1, the character is a Rogue with a focus on stealth and agility. With an improved initiative and dodge, this build lets you strike first and avoid attacks. Armed and prepared for combat, the character is ready for quick, deadly engagements.
Stat Block Level 1:
[The Arcane Shadow[1]]: Male, Human Rogue 1; CR 1; Medium Humanoid (Human); HD 1d6+2; hp 8; Init +7; Spd 30 ft.; AC 14, touch 13, flat-footed 11; Base Atk +0; Grp -1; Atk +4 melee (1d6, rapier) or +4 ranged (1d4, hand crossbow); Full Atk +4 melee (1d6, rapier) or +4 ranged (1d4, hand crossbow); SA Sneak Attack +1d6; SQ Trapfinding; AL N; SV Fort +2, Ref +7, Will -1; Str 8, Dex 16, Con 14, Int 16, Wis 8, Cha 14.
Possessions: Rapier, Hand Crossbow, Studded Leather Armor.
At level 5, this character’s build offers a flexible mix of stealth, quickness, and spellcasting.. The character is skilled at stealth and gathering intel or striking unaware foes.
Stat Block Level 5:
Unnamed Male Human Rogue 5; CR 5; Medium Humanoid (Human); HD 5d6; hp 25; Init +7; Spd 30 ft.; AC 16, touch 16, flat-footed 13; Base Atk +3; Grp +2; Atk +6 melee (1d6 18-20/x2, Rapier) or +7 ranged (1d4 19-20/x2, Hand Crossbow); Full Atk +6 melee (1d6 18-20/x2, Rapier) or +7 ranged (1d4 19-20/x2, Hand Crossbow); SA Sneak Attack +3d6; SQ Trapfinding, Evasion, Uncanny Dodge, Trap Sense +1; AL Neutral; SV Fort +2, Ref +8, Will +1; Str 8, Dex 16, Con 14, Int 16, Wis 8, Cha 14.
Skills, Abilities, and Feats:
Decipher Script +11, Disable Device +11, Escape Artist +11, Knowledge (Arcana) +7; Improved Initiative, Dodge, Weapon Finesse. Special Attacks and Qualities: Sneak Attack +3d6—deal extra damage when flank or target is flat-footed; Evasion—take no damage on a successful Reflex save.
Possessions: Rapier, Hand Crossbow, Studded Leather Armor.
At level 10, this Rogue/Wizard/Arcane Trickster shows great versatility in stealth, agility, and magic. They have the ability to execute Sneak Attacks, use wizard spells up to 5th level, and utilize special Arcane Trickster skills such as Ranged Legerdemain. Important spells are Greater Invisibility and Dimension Door.
Stat Block Level 10:
Unnamed Character: male, human Rogue 5/Wizard 5; CR 10; Medium humanoid (human); HD 5d6+10 plus 5d4+10; hp 42; Init +7; Spd 30 ft.; AC 16 touch 13, flat-footed 13; Base Atk +5; Grp +4; Atk rapier +8 melee (1d6/18-20) or hand crossbow +8 ranged (1d4/19-20); Full Atk rapier +8 melee (1d6/18-20) or hand crossbow +8 ranged (1d4/19-20); SA Sneak Attack +3d6, spells; SQ Evasion, Uncanny Dodge, Trapfinding, Trap Sense +1, Scroll Mastery, Arcane Familiar; AL any; SV Fort +4, Ref +9, Will +6; Str 8, Dex 16, Con 14, Int 16, Wis 8, Cha 14.
Skills, Abilities, and Feats:
Decipher Script +14, Disable Device +14, Escape Artist +14, Knowledge (arcana) +12; Improved Initiative, Dodge, Weapon Finesse, Scribe Scroll, Mobility, Spring Attack, Silent Spell. Special Attacks and Qualities: Sneak Attack +3d6, Evasion, Uncanny Dodge, Trapfinding, Trap Sense +1, Class wizard spells (Caster Level 5).
Possessions: Rapier, Hand Crossbow, Studded Leather Armor, various scrolls and spell components.
This Arcane Trickster is a versatile combatant At level 15, they can sneak attack, teleport, and fly. Their skills, such as Decipher Script and Disable Device, back up their stealth and combat prowess. Equipped with efficient weapons, and spells like Antimagic Field, they handle various threats effectively.
Stat Block Level 15:
Unnamed: male, human Rogue 5/Wizard 5/Arcane Trickster 10; CR 15; Medium humanoid (human); HD 5d6+10 plus 5d4+10 plus 10d4+20; hp 84; Init +4; Spd 30 ft.; AC 17, touch 14, flat-footed 13; Base Atk +8; Grp +7; Atk +13 melee (1d6+0/18-20, rapier) or +13 ranged (1d4+1/19-20, hand crossbow); Full Atk +13/+8 melee (1d6+0/18-20, rapier) or +13/+8 ranged (1d4+1/19-20, hand crossbow); SA sneak attack +5d6, spells; SQ evasion, trapfinding, trap sense +1, uncanny dodge, impromptu sneak attack 1/day, ranged legerdemain 2/day; AL CG; SV Fort +7, Ref +13, Will +10; Str 8, Dex 16, Con 14, Int 16, Wis 8, Cha 14.
Skills, Abilities, and Feats:
Decipher Script +22, Disable Device +22, Escape Artist +22, Knowledge (Arcana) +18; Improved Initiative, Dodge, Weapon Finesse, Mobility, Spring Attack, Silent Spell, Quick Draw, Two-Weapon Fighting. Special Attacks and Qualities: The trickster uses a blend of combat and magic. They can turn invisible, fly, polymorph, and teleport.
Possessions: Rapier, hand crossbow, studded leather armor.
This human Arcane Trickster is highly skilled in stealth and magic at level 20, with strong sneak attacks and advanced spellcasting abilities like Greater Invisibility, Fly, and Dimension Door.
Stat Block Level 20:
Arcane Shadow[1]: male, human Rogue 5/Wizard 5/Arcane Trickster 10; CR 20; Medium humanoid (human); HD 5d6+10 plus 5d4+10 plus 10d4+20; hp 92; Init +4; Spd 30 ft.; AC 19, touch 14, flat-footed 15; Base Atk +10; Grp +9; Atk Rapier +16 melee (1d6+1/18-20) or Hand Crossbow +16 ranged (1d4/19-20); Full Atk Rapier +16/+11 melee (1d6+1/18-20) or Hand Crossbow +16 ranged (1d4/19-20); SA Sneak Attack +8d6, Ranged Legerdemain 3/day, Impromptu Sneak Attack 2/day; SQ Trapfinding, Evasion, Uncanny Dodge, Ranged Legerdemain, Impromptu Sneak Attack, spellcasting; AL CN; SV Fort +8, Ref +15, Will +8; Str 8, Dex 16, Con 14, Int 16, Wis 8, Cha 14.
Possessions: +2 Rapier, Hand Crossbow, Studded Leather Armor, various scrolls and potions.
Milestones Of Character Development
Levels 1-5: As a rogue at first, the character concentrates on skills and stealth attacks. Key feats are chosen to enhance agility and combat readiness.
Levels 6-10: Transitioning into a Wizard, the character gains spellcasting abilities. Notable feats include Scribe Scroll, Mobility, and Spring Attack, enabling hit-and-run tactics. By level 10, the character can cast powerful utility spells.
Levels 11-15: The character advances as an Arcane Trickster. They enhance sneak attack damage and gain unique abilities like Ranged Legerdemain and Impromptu Sneak Attacks. Two-Weapons Fighting increases versatility in combat.
Levels 16-20: High-level Arcane Trickster powers culminate in peak performance. The character reaches maximum sneak attack potential with abilities like Improved Two-Weapons Fighting and more frequent Ranged Legerdemain uses, reflecting mastery of stealth and magic.
Core Abilities & Features of the Arcane Shadow
Sneak Attack
Starting as a Rogue, our build quickly racks up Sneak Attack bonuses. By level 20, this build achieves +8d6 Sneak Attack damage, a brutal boost in combat. Playing into both stealth and precision, you can unleash devastating damage once you catch your foes off-guard.
Arcane Casting
As you progress into Wizard levels, casting becomes second nature. With this build, you’ll cast wizard spells up to 8th level. Iconic spells like Greater Invisibility, Dimension Door, and Polymorph will be at your disposal, allowing versatility both in and out of combat.
Ranged Legerdemain
A unique Arcane Trickster feature, Ranged Legerdemain lets you use your skills from a distance. By level 20, you’ll execute these tricks three times a day, perfect for disarming traps or picking locks from afar without breaking cover.
Impromptu Sneak Attack
Impromptu Sneak Attack introduces the ability to deal Sneak Attack damage without needing flanking or prior planning. Starting with one per day, this build goes up to two by level 17, crucial for those clutch moments when backstabbing isn’t an option.
Spring Attack and Mobility
These feats ensure you can jump in and out of melee without provoking attacks of opportunity. The combination guarantees you stay nimble, weaving through enemies with ease, especially useful when setting up those Sneak Attacks.
Evasion and Uncanny Dodge
Early Rogue levels grant Evasion and Uncanny Dodge, allowing you to avoid damage from area spells and maintain your defenses if caught off-guard. Uncanny Dodge nullifies being caught flat-footed, enhancing survivability in dicey situations.
Scribe Scroll and Contingency
Wizardry brings Scribe Scroll, enabling you to have spells ready outside your prepared list. Combine this with Contingency, and you have a boon of spells deployed automatically under set conditions, ensuring you’re always prepared.
Equipment Progression as an Arcane Shadow
Level Range
Equipment
Details
L1-5
Studded Leather Armor
Provides basic protection without hindering mobility. You’ll soon upgrade.
Rapier
Your primary melee weapon, leveraging your Dexterity with Weapon Finesse.
Hand Crossbow
For ranged attacks while maintaining mobility and stealth.
L6-10
Mithral Shirt
Improves on the Studded Leather Armor, lighter and allows more Dexterity bonus.
Boots of Elvenkind
Enhances your stealth, important for your rogue missions.
Cloak of Resistance +2
Boosts your saving throws, essential for survival.
L11-15
Bracers of Armor +3
Improves your Armor Class, stacking with your lighter armor choices.
Ring of Invisibility
Aids in remaining unseen, critical for stealth and espionage tasks.
Amulet of Natural Armor +2
A further boost to your defenses, giving a consistent edge in combat.
L16-20
Ring of Wizardry
Increases your spell casting capacity, a must-have for an Arcane Trickster.
Cloak of Displacement, Minor
Grants a 20% miss chance on attacks against you, enhancing survivability.
Gloves of Dexterity +4
Massively boosts your primary stat, enhancing many aspects of your rogue abilities.
Combat Scenarios as an Arcane Shadow
Dungeon Crawls:
Use Greater Invisibility and move silently to scout ahead. Disable traps with Disable Device skill. If caught, cast Fly to escape quickly.
Open Fields:
Utilize Polymorph to transform into a faster or sturdier creature. Use Dimension Door for quick repositioning. Employ ranged sneak attacks with the Hand Crossbow.
Ambushes:
Cast Silent Spell to avoid detection. Use Antimagic Field to neutralize enemy spellcasters. Spring Attack to hit and retreat quickly.
Defensive Stands:
Prepare Contingency spells to safeguard against surprise attacks. Cast Wall of Force to create temporary barriers. Use Improved Two-Weapon Fighting for close combat efficiency.
Urban Encounters:
Blend into crowds using mundane disguises combined with magical enhancements. Use Unseen Servant and Ranged Legerdemain to perform tasks without being physically present. If cornered, employ Escape Artist skill and Dimension Door for a swift escape.
Weaknesses & Counters
Weakness
Counter
Low Hit Points
Use spells like False Life, Protective Wards, and obtain items like Amulet of Health (+2 Con)
Frail in Melee Combat
Utilize Spring Attack for hit-and-run tactics; cast Greater Invisibility to avoid direct confrontation
Relies Heavily on Dex
Boost Dexterity through items such as Gloves of Dexterity (+2 Dex) and spells like Cat’s Grace
Limited Damage Output Against Constructs/Undead
Employ spells like Scorching Ray and Magic Missile; use knowledge skills to identify weaknesses
Sneak Attack Vulnerability
Prepare Contingency spells and use spells like Blur or Displacement to dodge attacks
Arcane Spell Failure in Armor
Wear Mithral Shirt (reducing spell failure to 10%); utilize Bracers of Armor (+4 Armor Bonus)
Spell Slot Management
Craft or purchase wands and scrolls for essential spells; leverage Scribe Scroll feat to back up
Vulnerability to Dispelling
Cast spells like Spell Resistance and keep distance from primary casters
Poor Fortitude Saves
Use spells like Resistance and Endurance to bolster fortitude; obtain Cloak of Resistance (+2 to saves)
Roleplaying the Arcane Shadow
Imagine a nobleman, wrapped in shadows, balancing both roguish charm and arcane prowess. This character can be portrayed as a highborn who rebelled against the rigid expectations of their noble lineage. They could’ve honed their roguish skills in secret, borrowing from both social grace and sorcery.
Delve into their motivations: Are they driven by a thirst for adventure, or perhaps an urge to right the wrongs of their family? The duality of this build allows for a rich exploration of themes like identity, secrecy, and power. The finesse of a rapier, the swift incantations of spells—these aren’t just tools, but extensions of a life lived on the edge of nobility and night.
Themes of rebellion and redemption often work well. Imagine an encounter where a noble feast is raided by thieves, only to be thwarted by this rogue-magician who seamlessly blends into the shadows to protect their kin. This character isn’t a straightforward hero; they walk a path that requires deception and sometimes morally gray decisions. This tension can lead to fantastic roleplaying moments.
One key opportunity lies in the relationships with other characters. Being a noble with secretive skills might spark intrigue among fellow adventurers or even create enmity with those jealous of their talents. A fellow party member discovering their arcane abilities in a tight spot could lead to trust-building—or suspicion, depending on the context.
Focus on spells that enhance your stealth and combat agility. Consider spells like Greater Invisibility, Polymorph, and Dimension Door. These will augment your hit-and-run tactics and escape maneuvers. Additionally, utility spells like Knock and Detect Magic are crucial for out-of-combat situations.
How do I effectively balance melee and magic in combat?
Utilize Spring Attack to dive in and out of melee without provoking attacks. Complement this with Greater Invisibility to stay hidden. Use your spells to set up Sneak Attacks or escape if things go south. Remember, your role is to be versatile and unpredictable.
Low hit points and poor fortitude saves are key weaknesses. Mitigate these by using spells like False Life and items like Cloak of Resistance. Another challenge is arcane spell failure in armor, but a Mithral Shirt can help reduce this issue.
How do I handle constructs and undead, which are immune to Sneak Attack?
Use spells like Scorching Ray and Magic Missile to deal damage directly. Knowledge skills can help identify vulnerabilities. Preparing contingency spells ensures you’re ready for these encounters. Remember, versatility is your strength.
Use Greater Invisibility and Move Silently to scout ahead. Disarm traps with your Disable Device skill. If caught, cast Fly to escape quickly. Your mastery of both magic and stealth makes you a formidable force in dungeons.
Considering trying this unique character build in your next game. Do you think the Arcane Shadow[1] could be the best build in D&D 3.5? Join the discussion on the Stellar Dragons Discord server at https://discord.gg/uAPvgEq6Z7.
Writer, Editor, GM, Technologist – Andrew’s been playing TTRPGs since as far back as he can recall… at least sometime in the nineties… or was it the early 2000s?
The young Nobleman was making his way in the dark alley without a sound. He had to avoid detection by the patrols as they might recognize him. If they did, well, it would make his task far more difficult to accomplish. He mind was focused on the traveling lady who paid him a lot of gold. A royal sum, even for a noble like him. It was a fairly simple matter: gather information on killings that had recently occurred in the city.Simple doesn’t mean easy, though.
It’s the so called White Wolf, a notorious killer who had taken the city’s underground by surprise years ago. She was as hard to track as it gets. But the young man wasn’t merely the son of one of the high noble houses, but a fantastic self-taught rogue and a magician extraordinaire.
When he arrived in front of the barracks, he observed the place swiftly. A few magical words uttered and he became invisible – his goal, the captain’s office. Entrance was easy, but he knew the door was locked. A simple cantrip, though, and the door was opened. There were only a scant few minutes before he had to get out of there. With great haste, he rummaged through the papers.
-“Bingo.” He whispered. He had his lead. Now to get out…
Race
Human
Class
Rogue 5/Wizard 5/Arcane Trickster 10
Ability Scores
Str 8/Dex 16/Con 14/Int 16/Wis 8/Cha 14
Skills
Decipher Script 7, Disable Devices 7, Escape Artist 7, Knowledge(Arcana) 4 Equipment: A Rapier, a Hand Crossbow, a Studded Leather Armor(at first, which you ditch out soon)
Goal
The ultimate swiss army knife. With the abilities to melee and ranged decently with your sneak attack; Spring Attack in and out of melee; and cast wizard spells up to 8th level. You get access to completely ridiculous goodies like Greater Invisibility, Fly, Polymorph, Dimension Door, the sky’s near the limit. Plus you have excellent skills all around to fall back on unlike a wizard, and can even use a Contingency spell for those very few things that might catch you off-guard.
Let’s not forget that you can also cast Antimagic Field and massacre the poor wizard with your Sneak Attacks.
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