The Wanderer[1] at Level 1 is a Human Samurai, focused on high initiative and striking quickly. With Iaijutsu Focus, he can deal damage fast and with precision. He can handle dual weapons skillfully. His key feats enhance his combat prowess and weapon handling.
Stat Block Level 1:
The Wanderer[1]: male, Human Samurai 1; CR 1; Medium Humanoid (Human); HD 12; hp 12; Init +6; Spd 30 ft.; AC 14, touch 12, flat-footed 12; Base Atk +1; Grp +4; Atk Bastard Sword +5 (1d10+4/19-20) or Daisho Proficiency; Full Atk Bastard Sword +5 (1d10+4/19-20) or Daisho Proficiency; SA Iaijutsu Focus; SQ None; AL Lawful Neutral; SV Fort +4, Ref +4, Will +0; Str 16, Dex 14, Con 14, Int 10, Wis 10, Cha 14.
Skills, Abilities, and Feats:
Iaijutsu Focus +4, Intimidation +4, Knowledge (Nobility and Royalty) +4, Ride +4; Exotic Weapon Proficiency (Bastard Sword), Weapon Focus (Bastard Sword), Cosmopolitan (Iaijutsu Focus), Improved Initiative, Power Attack. Special Attacks and Qualities: Iaijutsu Focus, Daisho Proficiency.
Possessions: Bastard Sword, Daisho (Katana and Wakizashi), the best armor you can afford.
At level 5,the Samurai/Iaijutsu Master build leverages Iaijutsu Focus to deal massive damage. The character wears optimal armor and wields the Daisho set, ensuring effective combat performance.
Stat Block Level 5:
Wanderer: male, human samurai 5/iaijutsu master 0; CR 5; Medium humanoid (human); HD 5d10+10; hp 37; Init +6; Spd 30 ft.; AC 18, touch 12, flat-footed 16; Base Atk +5; Grp +8; Atk +10 melee (1d10+4/19-20, bastard sword) or +6 melee (1d6+2/19-20, wakizashi); Full Atk +10 melee (1d10+4/19-20, bastard sword) and +6 melee (1d6+2/19-20, wakizashi); SA Iaijutsu Focus +9; SQ Daisho Proficiency, Two-Weapons as One, Kiai Smite 1/Day; AL LG; SV Fort +6, Ref +5, Will +2; Str 16, Dex 14, Con 14, Int 10, Wis 10, Cha 14.
Iaijutsu Focus allows for immense damage when drawing a weapon quickly, Kiai Smite adds Cha bonus to attack and damage rolls once per day.
Possessions: Daisho (bastard sword and wakizashi), the best armor affordable.
At level 10, this character is a fierce Iaijutsu Master capable of delivering powerful strikes with incredible swiftness. He is skilled in duels and can frequently resolve conflicts preemptively. Skilled in both mounted combat and social interactions, this Wanderer also possesses great maneuverability.
Stat Block Level 10:
Wanderer: male, human Samurai 6/Iaijutsu Master 4; CR 10; Medium humanoid (human); HD 6d10+4d10+20; hp 85; Init +7; Spd 30 ft.; AC 21, touch 14, flat-footed 17; Base Atk +10; Grp +13; Atk +13 melee (1d10+5, +1 masterwork katana) or +11 ranged (1d8+2, composite longbow); Full Atk +13/+8 melee (1d10+5, +1 masterwork katana) and +10/+5 melee (1d6+2, masterwork wakizashi) or +11/+6 ranged (1d8+2, composite longbow); SA Iaijutsu strike, kiai smite; SQ Canny defense, staredown, two-weapons as one, daisho proficiency; AL LG; SV Fort +10, Ref +9, Will +4; Str 16, Dex 14, Con 14, Int 10, Wis 10, Cha 14.
Iaijutsu strike allows for significant extra damage based on the Wanderer[1]’s Initiative check; kiai smite 1/day adds his Charisma bonus to attack and damage.
At the 15th level, the Wanderer[1] is a deadly and quick fighter, able to defeat opponents before they have a chance to respond. His emphasis on Iaijutsu enables him to deliver lightning-fast strikes, frequently wrapping up fights with one powerful hit. They specializes in individual fights, making use of abilities such as Combat Reflexes and Dodge to stay ahead.
Stat Block Level 15:
The Wanderer[1]: male, human Samurai 6/Iaijutsu Master 9; CR 15; Medium humanoid (human); HD 6d10+9d10+30; hp 141; Init +6; Spd 30 ft.; AC 24, touch 16, flat-footed 20; Base Atk +15; Grp +18; Atk Bastard Sword +21 melee (1d10+5, 19-20/x2) or Composite Longbow +17 ranged (1d8+2, x3); Full Atk Bastard Sword +21/+16/+11 melee (1d10+5, 19-20/x2) or Composite Longbow +17/+12/+7 ranged (1d8+2, x3); SA Iaijutsu Strike, Kiai Smite 1/day, Leap Attack; SQ Two-Weapons as One, Canny Defense, Lightning Blade, Strike from the Void, One Strike Two Cuts; AL LN; SV Fort +13, Ref +12, Will +7; Str 19, Dex 16, Con 16, Int 10, Wis 10, Cha 14.
Iaijutsu Strike—can add great damage on the first attack by drawing and striking quickly.; Kiai Smite—once per day, add Charisma modifier to attack and double the threat range.; Leap Attack—increases damage when making a charge attack by leaping at the opponent.; Strike from the Void—a deadly, quick draw strike augmenting Speed and Iaijutsu.
Possessions: Daisho (Bastard Sword and Wakizashi), Composite Longbow, the best armor affordable, various potions for healing and enhancing speed.
A master duelist and speed fighter, the Wanderer[1] can kill opponents during initiative rolls with immense damage output. Capable of dispatching any enemy in one round and excelling in mounted combat, Iaijutsu, and diplomacy.
Stat Block Level 20:
Wanderer: male, human Samurai 6/Iaijutsu Master 10/Master Samurai 4; CR 20; Medium humanoid (human); HD 20d10+40; hp 190; Init +6; Spd 30 ft.; AC 28, touch 14, flat-footed 24; Base Atk +20; Grp +23; Atk +32 melee (Bastard Sword or Katana, 1d10+16); Full Atk +32/+27/+22/+17 melee (Bastard Sword or Katana, 1d10+16); SA Iaijutsu Strike, Kiai Smite 1/Day, Strike From the Void, One Strike Two Cuts, Strike with No Thought; SQ Daisho Proficiency, Two-Weapons as One, Staredown, Canny Defense, Lightning Blade, Mounted Combat, Mounted Archery; AL any lawful; SV Fort +14, Ref +14, Will +7; Str 20, Dex 18, Con 18, Int 10, Wis 10, Cha 14.
Iaijutsu Strike allows extreme damage during the surprise round or first round of combat. Strike From the Void and Strike with No Thought enhance speed and precision, often breaking or bypassing enemy armor.
Possessions: Daisho (Katana and Wakizashi), +5 Full Plate Armor, Cloak of Resistance +5, Ring of Protection +3, Amulet of Health +4.
Milestones Of Character Development
Levels 1-5: Establish the basics with feats like Exotic Weapon Proficiency (Bastard Sword) and Improved Initiative. Begin focusing on Iaijutsu Master with key abilities like Two-Weapons as One and Kiai Smite.
Levels 6-10: Transition fully into Iaijutsu Master, gaining critical abilities like Canny Defense and Strike From the Void. Enhance combat prowess with feats such as Leap Attack and Mounted Combat.
Levels 11-15: Strengthen Iaijutsu capabilities with feats like One Strike Two Cuts and Skill Focus (Iaijutsu Focus). Further enhance combat versatility with feats such as Combat Reflexes and Dodge.
Levels 16-20: Complete the transformation into a Master Samurai, acquiring powerful abilities like Blades of Death and Supreme Cleave. Solidify your role as a formidable duelist with feats like Robilar’s Gambit and Great Cleave.
Core Abilities & Features of the Samurai Wanderer
Striking First: Iaijutsu Mastery
The centerpiece of the Wanderer[1] build is the Iaijutsu Master class, with its core ability, Iaijutsu Focus. By sheathing and then unsheathing his blade, the Iaijutsu Master can dispatch foes in a single strike. This technique is amplified through the ‘Strike From the Void’ ability at level 11, which allows the Wanderer[1] to attack with uncanny speed and precision during the initiative phase, often ending the battle before it truly starts.
Damage Maximization: Leap Attack and Power Attack
Key to the Wanderer[1]’s strategy is dealing massive damage in one strike. ‘Leap Attack’ combines with ‘Power Attack’ to maximize the damage output. By leaping into an attack, the Wanderer[1] can convert movement into an overwhelming offensive. This synergy ensures that each blow carries the weight of a small army, making even the mightiest foes reconsider their life choices.
Defensive Agility: Canny Defense
Defense is equally important. ‘Canny Defense’ at level 7 allows the Wanderer[1] to add his Intelligence modifier to his Armor Class (AC) when wielding a weapon in one hand and nothing in the other. This defensive agility is critical, ensuring that while the Wanderer[1] focuses on offense, he isn’t left vulnerable to counterattacks.
The Wanderer[1]’s ability to move quickly and strike from unexpected angles is enhanced by ‘Supreme Mobility’ at level 19, which provides significant AC bonuses against attacks of opportunity. Combined with ‘Mounted Combat’ and ‘Mounted Archery’ from the Iaijutsu Master class, the Wanderer[1] is not just a ground menace but a devastating mounted warrior, capable of engaging foes on the battlefield with superior speed and control.
Social and Battlefield Presence: Intimidation and Diplomacy
Beyond combat, the Wanderer[1] excels in social scenarios with skills like ‘Intimidation’ and ‘Diplomacy’. The Staredown ability allows the Wanderer[1] to demoralize foes with a glare, impacting their performance in battle. His knowledge in ‘Nobility and Royalty’ ensures he navigates courtly intrigue with ease, reinforcing the Samurai’s role as both a warrior and a diplomat.
Equipment Progression of the Samurai Wanderer
Level Range
Equipment
Details
L1-5
Masterwork Bastard Sword
Superior craftsmanship ensuring +1 on attack rolls.
Chain Shirt
Provides +4 Armor Bonus with low armor check penalty.
Efficient Quiver
Allows for quick retrieval of arrows, reducing time taken.
L6-10
+1 Keen Bastard Sword
Improves critical threat range, great for Iaijutsu strikes.
Mithral Breastplate
Combines flexibility and protection, offering +6 Armor Bonus.
Cloak of Resistance +2
Boosts all saving throws by +2, enhancing overall resilience.
L11-15
+2 Keen Bastard Sword
Further increases attack power and critical range.
Amulet of Health +4
Increases Constitution, augmenting HP and Fortitude saves.
Boots of Speed
Grants Haste effect, enhancing speed and number of attacks.
L16-20
+3 Speed Keen Bastard Sword
Additional attack due to Speed, ensuring swift Iaijutsu execution.
Adamantine Full Plate
Maximizes protection with DR and +8 Armor Bonus.
Ring of Protection +4
Increases deflection AC, protecting against both physical and magical attacks.
Combat Scenarios
Dungeon Crawls:
Use your Iaijutsu Focus to strike instantly and lethally against lurking foes. Explore carefully but be ready to pounce at any moment, utilizing your high initiative and mobility.
Open Fields:
Engage enemies swiftly using your mounted combat skills. Charge from the distance, utilizing Leap Attack for devastating damage, then swiftly move to avoid counterattacks.
Ambushes:
Rely on your improved initiative and Strike From the Void to catch attackers off guard. Your fast reflexes and deadly precision can turn the tables in an instant, ensuring any surprise encounters end quickly in your favor.
Defensive Stands:
Utilize your defensive stances like Canny Defense effectively to minimize damage. Hold the line with Robilar’s Gambit, drawing and then punishing hasty attacks while ensuring your positioning remains advantageous.
Urban Encounters:
Navigate tight spaces using supreme mobility to outmaneuver adversaries. Leverage your Intimidate skill to control crowds and avoid unnecessary fights, engaging only when victory is assured.
Weaknesses & Counters
Weakness
Counter
Low Hit Points
Focus on obtaining magical items like the Amulet of Health +2 (increases Con) to enhance survivability.
Reliance on Initiative
Increase your Dexterity and obtain the Improved Initiative feat early for maximum impact.
Limited Ranged Attacks
Carry a composite longbow and arrows for those times you can’t get up close.
Vulnerable to Blindness/Illusions
Invest in items like Blindfold of True Darkness which grants the wearer blindsight 60 feet.
Flaws: Shaky and Murky Eyes
Acquire items that boost related skills, such as the Eyes of the Eagle for improved vision.
Heavy Dependency on Dexterity
Enhance Dexterity with Gloves of Dexterity +2 to ensure consistent performance in speed-based tasks.
Roleplaying the Samurai Wanderer
Opportunities
Befriend Challengers:The Wanderer[1] often faces new challengers. Use these duels to show both respect and superiority. Demonstrate the gravity of the fight while also teaching respect or humility.
Demand Honor and Respect: As a master duelist, the Wanderer[1] can demand a certain level of honor from those he interacts with. Use this to create interesting social roleplay moments where the Wanderer[1] either gives or denies his respect based on others’ actions.
Mental Sharpness: Besides physical skills, the Wanderer[1] also values mental acuity. Use knowledge of nobility and royalty to navigate court politics and provide strategic advice in high-stakes situations. This can highlight the character’s depth beyond mere combat prowess.
Themes
Redemption and Return:The Wanderer[1]’s return to his homeland offers a rich theme of redemption. Formally scorned or underappreciated, he’s now a legend. Leverage this theme to explore family dynamics, societal expectations, and personal growth.
Solitude and Isolation: Despite his fame, the Wanderer[1] is often alone, moving from place to place. This can be reflected in interactions, showing a tendency toward introspection and brief, impactful engagements with others.
Code of Honor:The Wanderer[1] strictly adheres to a samurai’s code. Roleplay these principles in every action and decision. Whether it’s refusing to fight dishonorably or offering aid to the defenseless, let these moments define the character’s interactions.
FAQ
What is the core ability of the Samurai Wanderer build?
The core ability of the Wanderer[1] build is Iaijutsu Focus. This allows the Wanderer[1] to sheathe and then unsheathe his blade to perform a deadly attack. At level 11, ‘Strike From the Void’ enables the Wanderer[1] to attack with incredible speed during the initiative phase. This can potentially end battles before they even start.
How can the Samurai Wanderer maximize damage?
The Wanderer[1] maximizes damage through the combination of ‘Leap Attack’ and ‘Power Attack’ feats. ‘Leap Attack’ allows converting movement into a powerful offensive strike. ‘Power Attack’ further enhances this by sacrificing accuracy for greater damage. This synergy ensures each blow is overwhelming, making foes reconsider their combat strategies.
How does the Samurai Wanderer stay defensive?
At level 7, ‘Canny Defense’ adds the Wanderer[1]’s Intelligence modifier to his Armor Class (AC). This only works when wielding a weapon in one hand and nothing in the other. This defensive agility is essential for minimizing vulnerability during combat. Combining defense with offense, the Wanderer[1] ensures consistent survivability.
What combat scenarios is the Samurai Wanderer best suited for?
The Wanderer[1] excels in dungeon crawls, open fields, and ambushes. In dungeons, use Iaijutsu Focus for quick strikes. For open fields, use mounted combat skills and Leap Attack for maximum damage. In ambushes, rely on improved initiative and ‘Strike From the Void’ to catch foes off guard.
How can the Samurai Wanderer navigate social scenarios effectively?
The Wanderer[1] excels in social interactions with Intimidation and Diplomacy skills. ‘Staredown’ can demoralize foes, impacting their battle performance. Knowledge of Nobility and Royalty helps navigate courtly intrigue, making the Wanderer[1] effective both as a warrior and a diplomat.
Join us at Stellar Dragons!
Why not try the Samurai Wanderer in your next game? Do you think they 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?
As time passed, the young man had become well known as the Wanderer. He had gained a reputation as a master duelist and now champions came to him to test their skills. Though his time traveling had come to an end, he always welcomed the challenge to maintain his skill, sharpness of his reactions and mental acuity.
As he arrived at the gates of the palace he was raised, the guards had not recognized him at first.
–“No one is allowed inside until the return of our young Lord.” The young man smiled.
–“Very well then, have a good day”. The young man said, turning on his heel only for the samurai to stop and eye him over.
–“You are the legendary wanderer aren’t you.Please, duel me.”
-“Here? In front of the palace?” The young man asked.
-“Why not?”
The young man let out a sight and nodded. The challenger drew his blades, and readied for an attack. The young wanderer still waited, his blade in his sheath.
-“Here I come wanderer.” Let out the excited samurai, who then charged him with incredible velocity.
It seemed to all that his blade was about to strike the young wanderer in the neck, decapitating him, for a single moment.
A single moment was still too slow to defeat the wanderer.
The next instant, the samurai bit the ground, his sword shattered in twain, his armor broken. The young wanderer, his family’s legendary stance, had struck from the void, with a speed faster than the mind can process.
As he sheathed his blade once more, the guards bowed to him.
You can kill an opponent as part of rolling for the initiative count, with the absolute insane amount of damage you can dish out, ending a fight before it truly begins. You are a speed fighter, capable of dispatching virtually any enemy in one round, while being a fast and maneuverable fighter on the battlefield. You also embody everything it means to be a Samurai, capable of mounted combat and archery, along with Diplomacy and social interactions.
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