This Human Samurai focuses on dealing significant melee damage using their daisho and leveraging the Iaijutsu Focus skill. With high Strength and specialized feats, the character can perform powerful attacks early on.
Stat Block Level 1:
Samurai Wanderer: Male, Human Samurai 1; CR 1; Medium Humanoid (Human); HD 12; hp 12; Init +0; Spd 30 ft.; AC 10, touch 10, flat-footed 10; Base Atk +1; Grp +4; Atk Bastard Sword +4 melee (1d10+3/19-20) or Katana +4 melee (1d8+3/19-20); Full Atk Bastard Sword +4 melee (1d10+3/19-20) or Katana +4 melee (1d8+3/19-20); SA Ancestral Daisho; SQ Two Swords as One, Kiai Smite 1/day; AL LN; SV Fort +4, Ref +0, Will +0; Str 17, Dex 11, Con 14, Int 10, Wis 10, Cha 14.
Skills, Abilities, and Feats:
Knowledge(Arcana) +8, Iaijutsu Focus +4; Exotic Weapon Proficiency (Bastard Sword), Power Attack, Cosmopolitan (Iaijutsu Focus). Ancestral Daisho: Grants a +1 bonus on attack and damage rolls with the daisho (katana and wakizashi).
This level 5 Samurai build is a blend of strength and technique, emphasizing Iaijutsu Focus and Power Attack for delivering high damage strikes. Equipped with an Ancestral Daisho, it blends melee prowess with a touch of magical enhancement from the Battle Sorcerer dip. The goal is to maximize damage and versatility in combat.
Stat Block Level 5:
Young Wanderer: male, human samurai 5; CR 5; Medium humanoid; HD 5d10+10; hp 42; Init +0; Spd 30 ft.; AC 18, touch 10, flat-footed 18; Base Atk +5; Grp +8; Atk +10 melee (2d6+7/19-20, Bastard Sword) or +10 melee (1d10+7/19-20, Katana); Full Atk +10 melee (2d6+7/19-20, Bastard Sword) or +10 melee (1d10+7/19-20, Katana); SA Kiai Smite 1/Day, Iaijutsu Master; SQ Ancestral Daisho, Two Swords as One; AL LN; SV Fort +6, Ref +1, Will +1; Str 18, Dex 11, Con 14, Int 10, Wis 10, Cha 14.
Skills, Abilities, and Feats:
Knowledge (Arcana) +8, Iaijutsu Focus +10; Exotic Weapon Proficiency (Bastard Sword), Power Attack, Cosmopolitan (Iaijutsu Focus), Improved Bull Rush. Special Attacks and Qualities: Kiai Smite – 1/day add Charisma modifier to attack roll and Samurai level to damage roll in a single melee attack, Iaijutsu Master – adds Charisma modifier to initiative.
Possessions: Ancestral Daisho (Katana and Wakizashi), chainmail armor.
At level 10, this build merges the ferocity of the Samurai, the strategic benefit of a Battle Sorcerer, and the immense strength of a Dragon Disciple. The character boasts remarkable strength and inherent armor, is able to utilize a breath weapon for extra damage, and has claws and biting attacks. The Leap Attack ability delivers powerful individual blows.
Stat Block Level 10:
Unnamed: male, human Samurai 5/Battle Sorcerer 1/Dragon Disciple 4; CR 10; Medium humanoid (dragonblood); HD 5d10+1d8+4d12+28; hp 83; Init +6; Spd 30 ft., fly 30 ft. (average); AC 23, touch 13, flat-footed 21; Base Atk +8; Grp +12; Atk +14 melee (1d10+7/19-20, masterwork bastard sword) or +12 melee (claw 1d6+4); Full Atk +14/+9 melee (1d10+7/19-20, masterwork bastard sword) and +12 melee (bite 1d6+2) or +12/+12 melee (claw 1d6+4); SA breath weapon 2d8, kiai smite 1/day, leap attack; SQ natural armor +2, blindsense 30 ft.; AL LN; SV Fort +12, Ref +6, Will +8; Str 22, Dex 11, Con 16, Int 10, Wis 10, Cha 14.
Skills, Abilities, and Feats:
Knowledge (Arcana) +8, Iaijutsu Focus (as high as possible); Exotic Weapon Proficiency (Bastard Sword), Power Attack, Cosmopolitan (Iaijutsu Focus), Improved Bull Rush, Improved Initiative, Leap Attack. Special Attacks and Qualities: Breath Weapon 2d8 fire damage (15 ft. cone, usable 1/day), Kiai Smite 1/day (+Cha to attack roll), natural armor +2, blindsense 30 ft.
Possessions: Masterwork bastard sword (Ancestral Daisho), the best armor available (preferably with the highest AC bonus affordable).
This Dragon Samurai[1] build at 15th level is a devastating melee force. With significant Strength boosts, a Breath Weapon, and natural flying ability, it excels in both damage-dealing and mobility. Key strategies include use of Iaijutsu Focus for high-damage opening strikes and the Shock Trooper feat for effective power attacks.
Stat Block Level 15:
Unnamed Samurai: male, Human Samurai 5/Battle Sorcerer 1/Dragon Disciple 10/Dragon Samurai[1] 4; CR 15; Medium Humanoid (Dragonblood); HD 5d10+1d8+10d12+4d10; hp 116; Init +4; Spd 30 ft., fly 60 ft. (average); AC 20, touch 10, flat-footed 20; Base Atk +13; Grp +18; Atk +21 melee (1d10+8/19-20, katana) or +19 melee (1d6+5, claw); Full Atk +21/+16/+11 melee (1d10+8/19-20, katana) and +16 melee (1d6+2, off-hand wakizashi) or +19 melee (1d6+5, 2 claws) and +14 melee (1d6+2, bite); SA Leap Attack, Breath Weapon 6d8 fire (60-ft. line, Reflex DC 20); SQ Ancestral Daisho, Two Swords as One, Kiai Smite 1/day, Iaijutsu Master, Draconic Bloodline, Natural Armor +4, Blindsense 60 ft., Dragon Apotheosis, Resistance to Energy 5, Immunity to Dragon Fear; AL LN; SV Fort +11, Ref +6, Will +7; Str 23, Dex 11, Con 16, Int 12, Wis 10, Cha 16.
Skills, Abilities, and Feats:
Knowledge (Arcana) +8, Iaijutsu Focus +22; Exotic Weapon Proficiency (Bastard Sword), Power Attack, Cosmopolitan (Iaijutsu Focus), Improved Bull Rush, Improved Initiative, Leap Attack, Shock Trooper, Flyby Attack. Special Attacks and Qualities: Leap Attack allows a charge that doubles power attack damage, while Shock Trooper enables penalizing AC instead of Attack Roll when power attacking.
Possessions: Daisho (katana and wakizashi), +2 Full Plate Armor, Cloak of Resistance +2, Belt of Giant Strength +4.
This is a powerful Level 20 Dragon Samurai[1] build focusing on immense physical damage with a blend of martial prowess and draconic abilities. This character excels in melee combat using Diving, Leap Attack, Breath Weapon, and Iaijutsu Focus Charge. Capable of flight and resistant to energy, this character truly shines as an unstoppable warrior.
Stat Block Level 20:
Unnamed Samurai: male, human Samurai 5/Battle Sorcerer 1/Dragon Disciple 10/Dragon Samurai[1] 4; CR 20; Medium humanoid (half-dragon); HD 5d10+1d8+10d12+4d10; hp 232; Init +6; Spd 30 ft., fly 60 ft. (average); AC 25, touch 11, flat-footed 23; Base Atk +17; Grp +23; Atk +26 melee (Bastard Sword +1d6 elemental dmg); Full Atk +26/+21/+16/+11 melee (Bastard Sword +1d6 elemental dmg); SA Breath Weapon 6d8 (60 ft line), Leap Attack, Iaijutsu Focus Charge; SQ Dragon Apotheosis, Blindsense 60 ft., Natural Armor +4, Immunity to Dragon Fear, Flyby Attack, Resistance to Energy 5; AL LG; SV Fort +20, Ref +10, Will +11; Str 24, Dex 11, Con 16, Int 12, Wis 10, Cha 16.
Possessions: Daisho (free), best armor you can afford, Belt of Giant’s Strength, Ring of Protection, Winged Boots.
Milestones Of Character Development
Levels 1-5: The character starts as a Samurai, gaining proficiency with the Bastard Sword and the ability to perform Iaijutsu Focus. These levels establish the fundamental combat abilities and honor-driven smites.
Levels 6-10: Transitioning into a Dragon Disciple, the character gains natural armor, claws, a breath weapon, and leap attacks. This phase focuses on enhancing physical abilities and adding magic with a level in Battle Sorcerer.
Levels 11-15: The character continues to evolve with the Dragon Disciple levels, eventually gaining wings and Flyby Attack. This period drastically increases combat versatility with improved natural armor, blindsense, and stronger breath weapons.
Levels 16-20: Final advances as a Dragon Samurai[1] grant immunity to dragon fear, additional elemental damage, and increased resistance to energy. This stage cements the character as a fearsome half-dragon warrior[2] capable of dealing massive damage from the air or ground.
Core Abilities & Features of the Samurai Dragon
Iaijutsu Mastery and Kiai Smite
From early levels, this build leverages Iaijutsu Focus to deal explosive damage. Alongside Kiai Smite, usable once per day to deliver a devastating attack, these abilities ensure the Samurai hits hard and fast. The free Ancestral Daisho also keeps weapon concerns minimal.
Dragon Transformation
Once Dragon Disciple class is taken, core abilities shift towards dragon-like transformations. By level 16, you’ll have a Breath Weapon dealing 6d8 damage, Blindsense up to 60ft., and natural armor improvements, climaxing into Dragon Apotheosis, fully embracing the half-dragon form.
Leap Attack and Shock Trooper Combo
The synergy between these feats cannot be ignored. Leap Attack amplifies your Power Attack damage, while Shock Trooper lets you redirect the penalties, maximizing offensive potential. Coupled together, they allow for breathtaking offensive plays.
Supernatural Mobility and Flight
Gaining wings at Dragon Disciple level 15, coupled with Flyby Attack, revolutionizes your combat dynamics. Avoid ground-based hazards and reach aerial opponents effortlessly. An advantage that puts melee and ranged casters on a back foot.
Elemental Weapon & Resistance
When you hit Dragon Samurai[1] levels, the bonuses to survivability and damage output continue. Gain Resistance to Energy and Elemental Weapon. Adding 1d6 extra elemental damage to your attacks and making you formidable against various magical threats.
Dragon Immunities and Fearlessness
Enemies rely on fear-based attacks? Not against a seasoned Dragon Samurai[1]. By level 19, you’re immune to Dragon Fear, making you unshakeable in battle. These final layers make the build not just brutal in offense but resilient in defense too.
Equipment progression ensures optimal performance in various combat scenarios.
Character roleplaying deeply influenced by honor, dragon heritage, and inner conflicts.
Equipment Progression
Level Range
Equipment
Details
L1-5
Masterwork Daisho
High quality pair of swords (katana and wakizashi) which grant a +1 bonus to attack rolls.
Chain Shirt
Provides a +4 bonus to AC with minimal penalty to movement.
L6-10
+1 Flaming Daisho
Weapon enchanted with +1 bonus and flaming property. Deals additional 1d6 fire damage.
+1 Full Plate
Heavy armor offering +9 AC and significant protection.
L11-15
+2 Dragonfang Daisho
Enhanced with +2 bonus and made from dragon teeth, further improving damage and attack rolls.
+2 Mithral Breastplate
Provides +6 AC bonus, counts as light armor, and offers excellent mobility.
L16-20
+3 Vorpal Daisho
Top-tier enchantment with +3 bonus and Vorpal property, allowing for decapitation on critical hits.
+3 Adamantine Full Plate
Heavy, nearly indestructible armor with +11 AC and damage reduction properties.
Combat Scenarios as a Samurai Dragon
Dungeon Crawls:
Use your flight and blindsense to navigate tricky, trap-filled hallways. Your Iaijutsu Focus lets you deliver devastating opener attacks on close-quarter foes. Utilize natural armor and constitution boosts for survivability.
Open Fields:
Leverage your flight for mobility and your breath weapon for area control. Engage in Leap Attacks for high damage bursts. Flyby Attack allows you to hit and run, keeping enemies at a distance while you remain hard to target.
Ambushes:
Surprise enemies with an opening breath weapon, then close the gap with a charge boosted by Iaijutsu Focus. Use Shock Trooper to switch your full power into attack mode, overwhelming enemies before they can react.
Defensive Stands:
Set up a strong frontline using Dragon Apotheosis to intimidate foes. Your immunity to dragon fear prevents morale breaks. Use Two Swords as One to maximize your defensive combat effectiveness while dealing steady damage.
Urban Encounters:
Exploit vertical movement with flight to ensure you have the high ground. In narrow streets, your Breath Weapon and Iaijutsu Master are incredibly effective. Pay attention to escape routes and use your Familiar for reconnaissance.
Weaknesses & Counters
Weakness
Counter
Low Dexterity: Limited to low Reflex Saves and Initiative.
Counter: Equip items like Boots of Dexterity (+2 Dexterity) to boost Dexterity temporarily.
High Variability in Damage: Dependence on Iaijutsu Focus for consistent damage can be unreliable.
Counter: Obtain Bracers of Striking (deal more consistent damage).
Arcane Spell Failure: Using armor interferes with Battle Sorcerer casting.
Counter: Use arcane spell failure reduction equipment like Mithral Chain Shirt (5% arcane spell failure).
Low Will Save: Vulnerability to mind-affecting spells.
Counter: Equip a Cloak of Resistance (+1 to +5 on all saves) to bolster Will Saves.
Limited Healing: Lack of self-healing abilities.
Counter: Stock up on Potions of Cure Serious Wounds (heals 3d8+5 hit points) to ensure survivability after heavy damage.
Exposure to Energy Attacks: Weakness to non-dragons’ elemental attacks.
Counter: Equip Ring of Energy Resistance (reduce specified energy damage by 10).
Limited Range Attacks: Lack of strong ranged combat options.
Counter: Carry Mighty Composite Longbow (1d8 damage, add strength modifier to damage) and appropriate arrows to engage distant foes.
Resource-Intensive: Relying on magic items and superior equipment can be costly and time-consuming to acquire.
Counter: Engage in quests and negotiate with NPCs to procure and exchange these vital resources.
Roleplaying the Samurai Dragon
Honorable Journey
Your samurai is driven by a deep sense of honor. This commitment to honor influences every decision. Embrace your bushido code and let it guide your actions. Always seek to resolve conflicts with dignity. Honor lost during battle should be restored through acts of valor and integrity.
Bearing the Dragon’s Legacy
You are not just a warrior; you carry the bloodline of dragons. This dual heritage provides both strength and a heavy burden. Your character might struggle with maintaining humanity while embracing draconic power. Play into these internal conflicts, showing moments of vulnerability and self-doubt.
Clan Vendetta
Driven by your father’s last command, you are on a mission of vengeance. Each battle against a clan champion is personal. Consider how the death of each champion affects your character’s psyche. Are they becoming more ruthless or is each victory a step towards peace?
Magical Mastery
As a Battle Sorcerer, magic plays a crucial role. Use spells strategically in combat and social interactions. Blend martial prowess with spellcasting to surprise enemies. Demonstrate the depth of your magical knowledge in dealing with arcane challenges, enhancing your role as a versatile warrior-mage.
Unyielding Determination
Your samurai must embody relentless resolve. When others falter, you stand firm. Showcase this determination in your refusal to back down from challenges and your steadfast pursuit of goals. This trait can lead to inspiring moments and bolster allies’ morale.
The main strength lies in its explosive combat power and versatility. Such characters can deal massive damage quickly with Iaijutsu Focus and Kiai Smite. Dragon Disciple abilities add transformation capabilities, making them exceptionally resilient. Their natural armor, breath weapon, and flight make them formidable.
Does the Dragon Samurai[1] build have effective counters against spellcasters?
Yes, targeting spellcasters with your breath weapon is effective. Flight capabilities also allow you to close the distance quickly. Use items to bolster your saves against spells, like Cloak of Resistance. Mitigate Arcane Spell Failure with low-failure armor such as Mithral Chain Shirt.
What are the best feats to maximize damage in the Samurai Dragon build?
Leap Attack and Shock Trooper are critical for maximizing damage. Leap Attack increases your Power Attack damage. Shock Trooper redirects penalties to enhance offensive potential. This synergy is key for delivering significant damage bursts.
How do I handle the limited healing capabilities of the Dragon Samurai[1]?
Stock up on Potions of Cure Serious Wounds for emergency healing. Also, consider items that provide additional healing benefits. Rely on party healers for sustained health recovery. Alternatively, acquiring magic items that offer regeneration helps maintain survivability.
The dual heritage of human and dragon opens rich roleplaying possibilities. Embrace your character’s struggle with draconic power and humanity. Focus on themes of honor and vengeance. Showcase internal conflicts and moral choices that stem from being a Dragon Samurai[1].
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 wanderer had heard of his father’s demise. After facing countless opponents, he was finally face to face with his father’s rival. The Dragon Lord was staring him down from his throne.
–“You would dare challenge me young wanderer. For what? Honor? Revenge? None of these will bring your father back.”
-“No, it won’t, but his last order was to defeat every single clan champion. So here I am.”
The Dragon Lord smiled, rose from his throne and flew down the stairs. He drew his sword, which was engulfed in flame as it left its sheath.
–“Very well wanderer. I shall commit your insipid family’s memory to the grave with your death.” The lord bellowed, flames erupting from his gaping maw as his excitement roared.
Knowledge(Arcana) 8, Iaijutsu Focus(as high as possible)
Equipment
Daisho(free), the best armor you can afford.
Goal
You are a genuine half-dragon samurai, if this isn’t one of the coolest things you have heard all day, you have a very exciting life my friend. You deal a simply ridiculous amount of damage between Diving, Leap Attacking, Breath Weapon and Iaijutsu Focus Charge. The fact that you can fly without magic just means those pesky wizards wont escape you that way.
Level
Class
HD
Feat
Special
1
Samurai
12
Exotic Weapon Proficiency(Bast ard Sword), Power Attack, Cosmopolitan(I aijutsu Focus)
It seems they will be coming soon, the dwarven dragonborn whispered to himself, while hidden in a crevasse in the ceiling of the cavern where the cult of Tiamat was operating. He had learned from his gnome friend the situation and had vowed to help. High up in the cavern, he had remained unnoticed, his bastard sword dangling at his hip.
The silence broken, the alarm was raised!
His sharp teeth showing in a smile, he drew his flame blade as he jumped down with a scream on the two panicking guards.
The best armor and shield you can afford, and a spear at first, eventually a Bastard Sword.
Goal
You are a great melee combatant, and your auras help you turn the field to your advantage. As a Dragon Samurai Ronin, your charges can deal a ridiculous amount of damage.
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