Article-At-A-Glance
- The Golden Archer[1] unlocks potential by combining skill strategies in Pathfinder 1E.
- Combining skills maximizes the Brawler’s power and adaptability across levels.
- Consistent skill use leads to character enhancement and strategic success.
- Detailed roleplaying tips to offer depth and support enjoyment in campaigns.
Click on the level for more information
The Golden Archer[1] build starts with robust Dexterity for ranged attacks. You’ll leverage the Shield Champion Archetype and Fighter dip, with plenty of HP due to favored class bonuses. Focus on long range combat using feats like Deadly Aim and Improved Unarmed Strike with Quick Draw. Use a throwing shield and magic items aplenty due to a strong wealth trait.
Stat Block Level 1:
Golden Archer: male, human brawler (shield champion) 1/fighter 1; CR 1; Medium humanoid (human); HD 1d10+1d10+4; hp 20; Init +4; Spd 30 ft.; AC 16, touch 14, flat-footed 12; Base Atk +1; Grp +4; Atk Shield bash +5 (1d6+3) or unarmed strike +4 (1d3+3); Full Atk shield bash +5 (1d6+3) or unarmed strike +4 (1d3+3); SA none; SQ brawler’s cunning, maneuver training; AL NE; SV Fort +3, Ref +6, Will +2; Str 10, Dex 18, Con 14, Int 10, Wis 10, Cha 10.
Skills, Abilities, and Feats:
Acrobatics +8, Perception +8, Use Magic Device +4; Deadly Aim, Quick Draw, Improved Unarmed Strike (Bonus feat).
Special Attacks and Qualities:
Brawler’s Flurry, Shield Champion abilities; Focus on ranged throwing attacks with versatile weapon choices.
Possessions: throwing shield, combat scabbard, various throwing weapons, and beginning magic items from ‘Rich Parents’.
At level 5, the Golden Archer[1] is a dexterous human Brawler with Shield Champion archetype, preparing for the Sentinel prestige class. It’s optimized for throwing attacks using a Throwing Shield, access to a wide range of combat feats, and maximizing Dexterity for combat effectiveness.
Stat Block Level 5:
Golden Archer: female, human Brawler (Shield Champion) 5; CR 5; Medium humanoid (human); HD 4d10+1d10+10; hp 45; Init +4; Spd 30 ft.; AC 20, touch 14, flat-footed 16; Base Atk +5; Grp +5; Atk Throwing Shield +10 (1d4+4) or Unarmed +10 (1d8+4); Full Atk Throwing Shield +8/+8 (1d4+4 each) or Unarmed +8/+8 (1d8+4 each); SA Maneuver Training, Close Combatant; SQ Brawler’s Cunning, Martial Flexibility, Martial Training, Shield Bounce; AL N; SV Fort +6, Ref +8, Will +4; Str 10, Dex 18, Con 14, Int 10, Wis 10, Cha 10.
Skills, Abilities, and Feats:
Acrobatics +12, Perception +8, Use Magic Device +8, Intimidate +8; Deadly Aim, Quick Draw, Improved Unarmed Strike, Point-Blank Shot, Rapid Shot, Precise Shot.
Special Attacks and Qualities:
Can use Martial Flexibility to gain an additional combat feat as a swift action; Maneuver Training allows using Dex for CMB; Shield Bounce to return thrown shield.
Possessions: +1 Throwing Shield, Bag of Holding, Potion of Cure Moderate Wounds, Standard Adventurer’s Kit, Gold Full Plate armor.
The Golden Archer[1] at Level 10 is a highly versatile ranged attacker with incredible dexterity. With a focus on throwing weapons using feats like Rapid Shot, Point-Blank Shot, and Equipment Trick, this build allows the character to make multiple attacks in a single round. Additionally, the Sentinel prestige class offers unique bonuses such as enhanced armor traits and summoning abilities. The use of the throwing shield and multiple magic items make this character both offensive and defensive in combat, embodying the Gilgamesh archetype.
Stat Block Level 10:
Golden Archer: male, human Brawler (Shield Champion) 6/Fighter 1/Sentinel 3; CR 10; Medium humanoid (human); HD 10d10+30; hp 95; Init +4; Spd 30 ft.; AC 24, touch 14, flat-footed 20; Base Atk +9; Grp +12; Atk Throwing Shield +14 (1d6+3) or Sickle +12 (1d6+1); Full Atk Throwing Shield +14/+9/+4 (1d6+3) or Sickle +12/+7/+2 (1d6+1); SA Weapon Finesse, Throw Anything; SQ Rich Parents, Dangerously Curious, Gold Full Plate count as Adamantine, Summon Red Dragons by throwing money; AL CN; SV Fort +10, Ref +14, Will +6; Str 10, Dex 20, Con 14, Int 10, Wis 10, Cha 13.
Skills, Abilities, and Feats:
Acrobatics +15, Perception +13, Use Magic Device +15, Intimidate +13; Deadly Aim, Quick Draw, Improved Unarmed Strike, Point-Blank Shot, Precise Shot, Rapid Shot, Two-Weapons Fighting, Throw Anything, Weapon Finesse.
Special Attacks and Qualities:
Ability to make multiple weapon throws per round, enhanced armor, unique summoning ability.
Possessions: Gold Full Plate Armor, Throwing Shield, Combat Scabbard, various Thrown Weapons, Bag of Holding for infinite weapon access.
At 15th level, the Golden Archer[1] build excels as a ranged combatant with incredible versatility and attacking power. They can make up to 10 attacks per round thanks to feats like Greater Two-Weapon Fighting and Rapid Shot. Their throwing abilities are enhanced further by feats such as Throw Anything which allows virtually any item from their specialized Bag of Holding to be a weapon. The build’s combination with the Sentinel prestige class offers defensive capabilities, turning their golden full plate into adamantine, and the ability to summon red dragons. Plus, with high hit points and two levels in Brawler’s Shield Champion archetype, they are durable in combat. Leadership solidifies their status, providing them followers and even allies, while spells animate chains for defense.
Stat Block Level 15:
Golden Archer: male, human Brawler (Shield Champion) 9/Fighter 1/Sentinel 5; CR 15; Medium humanoid (human); HD 9d10+1d10+5d10+70; hp 184; Init +3; Spd 30 ft.; AC 28, touch 15, flat-footed 24; Base Atk +15; Grp +18; Atk Throwing Shield +20 (1d6+5) or Spiked Chain +18 (2d4+5); Full Atk Throwing Shield +18/+18/+13/+8 (1d6+5) or Spiked Chain +18/+18/+13/+8 (2d4+5); SA Flurry of Blows, Weapon Finesse proficiency; SQ Indomitable Will, Damage Reduction 2/- (adamantine if gold-plated armor); AL CG; SV Fort +17, Ref +14, Will +11; Str 10, Dex 22, Con 14, Int 10, Wis 10, Cha 13.
Skills, Abilities, and Feats:
Acrobatics +18, Perception +15, Use Magic Device +20, Intimidate +15, Knowledge (Religion) +6, Quick Draw, Deadly Aim, Point-Blank Shot, Rapid Shot, Precise Shot, Greater Two-Weapon Fighting, Throw Anything, Two-Weapon Fighting, Improved Two-Weapon Fighting, Fiendish Obedience, Weapon Finesse, Equipment Trick (Heavy Scabbard), Piranha Strike, Iron Will, Greater Iron Will, Improved Initiative, Exotic Weapon Proficiency (Spiked Chain).
Special Attacks and Qualities:
Sentinel Gold Armor Ability, Animate Chains (spells), Leadership role and bonuses.
Possessions: Gold Full Plate Armor (count as Adamantine), Throwing Shield, Bag of Holding termed ‘Gate of Babylon’, multiple magic items, enchanted Spiked Chains, assorted throwing weapons, heavy combat scabbard.
The Golden Archer[1] build combines multi classing and specific equipment for a high number of attacks per round. Built as a deadly projectile specialist, this character throws almost anything as a weapon, showcasing supreme agility and resourceful use of magic items. Donning a visually striking gold full plate, akin to Adamantine, the Golden Archer[1] can summon red dragons and uses spiked chains and sickles for spectacular effects, mimicking mythical weapons. With enhanced dexterity and a treasury of magical items, they can lead with formidable charisma under the Sentinel’s influence.
Stat Block Level 20:
Golden Archer: male, human brawler (Shield Champion) 9/fighter 1/sentinel 10; CR 20; Medium humanoid (human); HD 10d8+9d10+1d10+70; hp 170; Init +13; Spd 30 ft.; AC 29, touch 18, flat-footed 21; Base Atk +19; Grp +23; Atk Throwing Shield +35 (1d6+8/x2) or Sickle +35 (1d6+6/x2); Full Atk Throwing Shield +35/+30/+25/+20 and +35/+30 or Sickle +35/+30/+25/+20; SA Rapid Shot, Greater Two-Weapon Fighting, Equipment Trick (Heavy Scabbard), Throw Anything. SQ Adamantine Armor, Leadership, Use Magic Device as a Class Skill; AL CN; SV Fort +18, Ref +20, Will +13; Str 10, Dex 20, Con 14, Int 10, Wis 10, Cha 13.
Skills, Abilities, and Feats:
Acrobatics +28, Perception +28, Use Magic Device +28, Intimidate +25; Deadly Aim, Quick Draw, Improved Unarmed Strike, Point-Blank Shot, Precise Shot, Fiendish Obedience, Two-Weapon Fighting, Improved Two-Weapon Fighting, Throw Anything, Weapon Finesse, Greater Two-Weapon Fighting, Equipment Trick (Heavy Scabbard), Piranha Strike, Iron Will, Leadership, Greater Iron Will, Improved Initiative, Exotic Weapon Proficiency (Spiked Chain). S
pecial Attacks and Qualities:
Can attack up to 10 times per round with a Throwing Shield; summon red dragons by offering gold; command lesser creatures due to Leadership.
Possessions: Gold Full Plate, Throwing Shield, Combat Scabbard, Bag of Holding (Gate of Babylon), Spiked Chains, assorted Magic Items.
Milestones Of Character Development
- Levels 1-5: This is the foundation of the build with Brawler (Shield Champion) starting. The Golden Archer[1] gains Deadly Aim, Persistent Strike abilities, and starts forming a substantial dexterity-focused build. Fiendish Obedience initiates devotion, allowing bonuses for a demonic patron.
- Levels 6-10: Transition into Sentinel, tapping into divine abilities linked to The Demon Lord, enabling the player to embrace new defensive tactics and channel greed based powers to summon aid in combat. Emphasis on employing dual weapons using Two-Weapon Fighting and Bonus feats like Rapid Shot.
- Levels 11-15: Advanced combat skills come into play with Greater Two-Weapon Fighting and Equipment Trickery. The Sickle becomes a conduit for embodying Enuma Elish, granting excess damage. Invest in Leadership, which expands possibilities within and beyond combat encounters.
- Levels 16-20: The character fully embodies the Golden Archer[1] as a tactical nightmare in battle. Throwing expertise reaches its peak with proficiency in both a versatile range of weapons and the ability to execute attacks fiercely. The Exotic Weapon Proficiency allows fluent use of a Spiked Chain while Greater Iron Will ensures unshakable resolve.
Core Abilities & Features
The Golden Archer[1] build is the epitome of ranged versatility, built around the core concepts of the Shield Champion archetype and Sentinel prestige class. Combining these elements with a level of Fighter grants access to a diverse set of combat abilities. The crux of this build is its exceptional use of Dexterity, maximizing the Brawler’s agility and attack potential. Starting as a human grants not only a floating +2, ideal for bolstering Dexterity, but also an extra feat that is crucial for intricate combat strategies.
One must marvel at the synergy between the numerous attacks possible in a single round: by utilizing feats such as Rapid Shot and Greater Two-Weapon Fighting, the build allows for up to 10 attacks using the Throwing Shield. The ‘Throw Anything’ feat pushes versatility further, letting any object from the Gate of Babylon Bag act as a projectile. This flexibility transforms the Golden Archer[1] into a devastating force on the battlefield, consistently maintaining pressure on foes with an onslaught of thrown weapons.
Employing the Sentinel prestige class adds a layer of thematic depth. By worshipping the Demon Lord of Greed and Secrets, players can don a Gold Full Plate that acts as if made of Adamantine. This creates a fascinating blend of offense and defense, with bonuses to weapon usage and armor resilience. The connection to dragons through tribute and the sickle weapon proficiency round off a build that embodies a mythic allure. Echoing the legendary Gilgamesh, this character navigates battlefields with boundless, golden opulence and might, making every encounter an epic affair.
Equipment Progression
| Level Range | Equipment | Details |
|---|---|---|
| L1-5 | Masterwork Throwing Shield | Provides a +1 bonus to attack rolls, a vital tool for the early stages of the build. |
| L6-10 | +1 Mithral Breastplate | Reduces armor check penalty, crucial for maintaining high Dexterity score activities. |
| L11-15 | Gate of Babylon Bag of Holding | This magical bag enables fast access to a wide array of throwing weapons for attack diversity. |
| L16-20 | Spiked Chain with Permanent Animate Objects | Animated chains serve as weapons and defensive tools, combined with magic for complex strategies. |
Combat Scenarios
- Dungeon Crawls:
- With narrow corridors, use the Golden Archer[1]’s Throwing Shield and Use Magic Device skill to effectively neutralize threats ahead. Keep a stack of alchemical weapons to block retreat paths.
- Open Fields:
- Capitalize on your impressive Dexterity with Rapid Shot and Greater Two Weapons Fighting. Maximize damage by using Piranha Strike in conjunction with a multitude of thrown weapons.
- Ambushes:
- Utilize Quick Draw to immediately engage enemies. Through careful pre-positioning, exploit the Sentinel’s ability to summon aid, such as red dragons, by creating havoc among unsuspecting foes.
- Defensive Stands:
- Fortify positions with your Gold Full Plate and shield the rear with allies. Throw Anything allows you to continuously strike from a safe distance, simultaneously deterring incoming threats.
- Urban Encounters:
- Navigate crowded streets with high agility and scope out higher ground to reign down volleys with Precise Shot. Support the party by intimidating rivals using Use Magic Device for illusions.
Weaknesses & Counters
| Weakness | Counters |
|---|---|
| Low Strength | Focus on Dexterity-based attacks and maneuvers; Equip Weapon Finesse for accuracy; Utilize magic items that enhance attack capabilities. |
| Limited Melee Combat Versatility | Use a variety of throwing weapons from the Gate of Babylon Bag of Holding; Equip a Throwing Shield for additional ranged attacks. |
| Dependency on Wealth | Choose the ‘Rich Parents’ trait to ensure gold at the start; Prioritize collecting and maintaining high-value items for summoning red dragons. |
| Reliance on Dexterity | Continually boost Dexterity through gear and buffs; Select traits or feats that compensate for low other stats, like Iron Will for better saves. |
| Specialized Feat Path | Plan feat progression meticulously to avoid gaps in combat abilities; Utilize retraining rules if necessary to adjust to situational needs. |
Roleplaying
Embrace the mythical aura of The Golden Archer[1]. As a human prioritizing dexterity, channel precision and agility like no other. Every action, from launching a throwing shield to whispering a hidden secret, reflects your divine connection to the Demon Lord of Greed and Secrets.
Opportunities arise in the thrill of battle; each throw or scabbard strike embodies the gravity of a king’s command. Your gold-plated armor symbolizes nobility. Use it to forge alliances and command respect. Inspired by Gilgamesh, balance ruthlessness with regal charm. Wealth accumulation isn’t just for power, but to summon dragons or activate Ea’s Chains at will.
Themes of greed and leadership weave through your story. You’re not just a fighter; you’re an enigma wrapped in gold. How you wield wealth and secrets speaks volumes of your character’s ambition and authority. This duality shapes interactions, allowing you to navigate landscapes of battle and diplomacy effortlessly.
Lastly, explore the dichotomy between extravagance and savagery. As you hurl improvised weapons with unmatched speed, reflect on the extravagance befitting a ruler. Balance is key; master the dance between opulence and the raw might of a brawler, making each encounter a spectacle.
FAQ
What makes the Golden Archer[1] build unique in Pathfinder 1E?
The Golden Archer[1] combines traditional brawler strengths with exceptional archery skills. It features the ability to adapt to varying combat scenarios. Precision in attacks and strategic positioning are its hallmarks. The build excels at maximizing attacks of opportunity. It utilizes feats that provide additional shooting opportunities. This dual approach makes it versatile and formidable in combat.
What feats are essential for a successful Golden Archer build?
Focus on feats like Rapid Shot and Deadly Aim early on. Improved Precise Shot neutralizes cover and concealment issues. Weapon Focus and Weapon Specialization enhance damage output. Manyshot increases the number of arrows fired per attack. Point-Blank Master prevents attacks of opportunity in close combat. These feats combined increase your ranged efficacy significantly.
Is there any strategy for maximizing the Golden Archer[1]’s potential?
Positioning is key to maximize this build’s damage output. Stay clear of melee threats by staying behind frontline fighters. Use terrain for advantage and to limit enemy approach. Coordinate with allies to target multiple threats efficiently. Use combat maneuvers to disrupt enemy formations. Maintaining mobility ensures you’re always at a tactical advantage.
How does the Golden Archer[1] adapt to different campaign settings?
The Golden Archer[1] fits various terrains, from dungeons to wilderness. Its versatility shines in environments with elevation changes. Urban settings benefit from the tactical use of buildings as cover. Even in underwater adventures, specialized gear maintains its efficacy. Adaptations in tactics and gear make it flexible across landscapes. Be prepared to adjust based on enemy types and campaign themes.
What roleplay opportunities does the Golden Archer[1] build offer?
Create a backstory aligning with the archer’s dual focus. Develop a unique personality based on precision and tactics. Engage with urban or rural settings to explore your character’s origins. Interactions can focus on a mentor-student dialogue or rivalry. Roleplay as a guardian, using archery skills to protect the weak. These elements deepen involvement and character immersion in campaigns.
Join us at Stellar Dragons with the Golden Archer!
Consider playing a Golden Archer in your next Pathfinder game. It might just be the best build in Pathfinder 1E! Join our discussions on the Stellar Dragons Discord server: https://discord.gg/uAPvgEq6Z7.
Authors
Terms definitions
1. ↑ Brawler – The Golden Archer – Pathfinder 1E ( The Golden Archer )
The Golden Archer
We are taking the Shield Champion Archetype and the Sentinel Prestige Class. We’re also taking a single level of Fighter.Our leveling should look like the following:
Brawler (Shield Champion) 1/Fighter 1/Brawler (Shield Champion) +5/Sentinel 10/Brawler (Shield Champion) +3
Race
We are once again going for human. Put that floating +2 into Dexterity
Ability Scores
Put everything in Dexterity.
15Point-Buy
Str 10/Dex 18/Con 14/Int 10/Wis 10/Cha 10
20Point-Buy
Str 10/Dex 19/Con 14/Int 10/Wis 10/Cha 12
25Point-Buy
Str 10/Dex 20/Con 14/Int 10/Wis 10/Cha 13
Traits
Rich Parents for all the goodies, Dangerously Curious nets you Use Magic Devices as a Class Skill.
Favored Class Bonus
HP, HP, All the HP.
Skills
We need at least 3 ranks in Knowledge(Religion), beyond that, Acrobatics, Perception, Use Magic Devices and Intimidate will be your go to skills
Feats by Level
1-Deadly Aim
Human Bonus-Quick Draw Brawler-Improved Unarmed Strike Bonus
2-Point-Blank Shot
3-Precise Shot Bonus
3-Rapid Shot
5-Fiendish Obedience
Bonus 6-Two-Weapons Fighting
7-Improved Two Weapons Fighting
9-Throw Anything
Bonus 9-Weapon Finesse
11-Greater Two-Weapons Fighting
13-Equipment Trick(Heavy Scabbard)
Bonus 14-Piranha Strike
15-Iron Will
Bonus 16-Leadership
17-Greater Iron Will
19-Improved Initiative
Bonus 19-Exotic Weapon Proficiency(Spiked Chain)
We are throwing so many things. Between Rapid Shot, Greater Two Weapons Fighting and Equipment Trick, if we equip a Throwing Shield, we can attack 10 times a round. And via Throw Anything, anything in our Gate of Babylon Bag of Holding we can use anything as a thrown weapon.
Sentinel
We are worshipping The Demon Lord of Greed and Secrets, which makes it that if we are wearing a Gold Full Plate it counts as Adamantine, and by throwing money at mongrels, we can summon red dragons to murder our enemies. Plus we get a few bonuses if we use a Sickle so that’s cool I suppose.
Equipment
You have tons of gold at first so buy yourself the best armor you can, a throwing shield, a combat scabbard and all the throwing weapons.
Final Thoughts on the Build
Yep, we did Gilgamesh pretty darned accurately actually. Can throw tons of shit at people, have tons of magic items, wears a golden plate armor, and is a King via Leadership. Plus we get Ea’s Chains(Just get a few Spiked Chains and have a spellcaster cast a permanent Animate Objects on them) and we can use a Sickle to mimic Enuma Elish for tons of damage surprisingly. Have fun with this build.
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