Community Based Monster Classes: Come in and help out!

[Magicyop]

Community Based Monster Classes

Welcome! If you've ever played D&D, you've probably wanted to play a monster at some point. Sometimes humans and elves aren't enough. Sometimes, you want to be a dragon.

That's what we're here to do. In this thread, you will be able to play as any monster you want by going into these Monster Classes just as if they were ordinary classes.

Or, if you love the monster classes, and fancy that you want to help out, there are two ways. You can critique, or you can homebrew. Both will be discussed momentarily.

There is also a spin-off project, our homebrew edition. While we allow classes based on well PEACHed homebrew monsters, this spin-off project's main purpose is to make monster classes completely from scratch. Not based off of anything at all, just inventing a new monster in class form. Make sure to check them out!

General FAQ

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Q) Isn't there already a Monster Class thread?
A) Yes. This thread has split off from that one because we disagree with their design philosophy, so you will note some differences between our Monster Classes and theirs. Some Monster Classes may have a place in both projects. However, if you are a fan of this thread, I encourage you to at least check out the other one at some time, even though we disagree with them on many points, their monsters are high quality.

Further, if you are here from the other Monster Class thread, you can still help us out. We welcome anyone's work, even if it has be presented in other threads. But the biggest thing you can do is just give us permission to use all of your monsters.

Q) What monsters am I allowed to make into a monster class?
A) We encourage Homebrewers to build any monster they wish to see as a playable character class, though we would prefer that Homebrewers build Monster Classes for Monsters that have either been published, or that have been Finished and well P.E.A.C.H.ed.

Q) Help! I'm taking a 1 or 2 level monster class and can't tell if it's BAB 1/2 or 3/4! (For the purposes of fractional BAB).
A) Unless otherwise noted, an undead has 1/2 BAB, while all other classes/templates have 3/4 BAB.

Q) When I increase in size does my strength increase and my dexterity decrease? If so, by how much?
A) Size increases, or decreases, do not alter ability scores in this project.

Q) What's the Caster Level for the SLAs?
A) Unless otherwise specified, the Caster level for any SLAs is equal to your total HD.

Q) What’s the Save DC for this ability?
A) Unless otherwise specified the Save DC is (10+ 1/2 HD + Charisma Modifier).

Q) What is this list of Monsters Thing?
A) The List is an organization of monster-classes that have been thoroughly P.E.A.C.H.ed, and are believed to be Play-ready. We make no claim to the perfection of a monster that has been listed, and continue to encourage comments and thoughts, even on monster-classes that have been 'finished.'

The rest of the rules are split into three parts. Use Guidlines will teach you all the proper rules for using these Monster Classes in a game. Critique Guidelines will explain how you can help the project by commenting on other people's monsters. Homebrew Guidelines states how you can help us by making your own Monster Class.


Use Guidelines
You take these Monster Classes just like you would any other class, such as wizard or rogue. Each level of the class makes you more like the monster, makes you more powerful. Normally you should take the first level of a Monster Class at level 1, but in some cases you may like your character to transform into a monster, in which case you can take it at a later level. After that, you may multiclass freely from and to your Monster Class.

Under normal circumstances you may not multiclass two Base Monster Classes. However, see below. Upon taking the first level of a Monster Base Class, you lose all other racial traits: what this means is that while you may select a race in character creation, you essentially lose it when you pick your Level 1 class level. You do not gain any traits or bonuses from being a race, since the first level of a Monster Class replaces both class and race. (However, it is usually more powerful than a standard class to make up for it.)

Growth Table

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{table=head]Base Size|New Size| AC & Attack Bonuses*|Space*|Reach (Tall/Long)*|Ave. Size Incr.|Ave. Weight Incr.|Grapple Mod.|Hide Mod.
Fine|Diminutive|-4 (size)|+½’|+0’/+0’|+6”|+1/2 lb.|+4 (size)|-4 (size)
Diminutive|Tiny|-2 (size)|+1½’|+0’/+0’|+9”|+5 lbs.|+4 (size)|-4 (size)
Tiny|Small| -1 (size)|+2½’|+5’/+5’|+18”|+36 lbs.|+4 (size)|-4 (size)
Small|Medium| -1 (size)|+0’|+0’/+0’|+3’|+240 lbs.|+4 (size)|-4 (size)
Medium|Large|-1 (size)|+5’|+5’/+0’|+6’|+2000 lbs.|+4 (size)|-4 (size)
Large|Huge|-1 (size)|+5’|+5’/+5’|+12’|+8 tons|+4 (size)|-4 (size)
Huge|Gargantuan|-2 (size)|+5’|+5’/+5’|+24’|+80 tons|+4 (size)|-4 (size)
Gargantuan|Colossal|-4 (size)|+10’|+10’/+5’|+48’|+200 tons|+4 (size)|-4 (size)[/table]
Natural weapons damage increases one die size for each size increase.

Thanks to Zeta Kai for the Table.

Multiple Natural Armor Bonuses

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If a creature gains natural armor bonuses from multiple sources treat them according to the following chart.
{table=head]Base Natural Armor|Extra Natural Armor|Results

1/2 Con Mod|1/2 Con Mod|Full Con Mod as Natural armor Bonus

Anything higher than 1/2 Con Mod|1/2 Con Mod|+1 Nat. AC

Full Con Mod|Full Con Mod|1.5 Con Mod

Anything Higher than Full Con Mod|Full Con Mod|+2 Nat. AC

1.5 Con Mod|Anything higher than Full Con Mod|+3 Nat. AC[/table]
Creatures that gain Natural Armor from more than one monster class, that specify different Ability Scores as the base for their Natural Armor Class use whichever Ability Score is higher to derive both Natural Armor Classes, and uses the chart above.
Thanks to ChumpLump for the Table.

Multiclassing Monsters

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In some cases, your DM may disregard the above rule and allow you to multiclass two base monster classes. This will likely represent some sort of hybrid character, which could be interesting. In this case, how you should play this is: For the monster class which you do not take at level one, remove the “Body of X” class feature, and use the “Body of X” for your first monster class. If you somehow take them at the same time using a variant rule like gestalt, keep the “Body of X” from the class with more levels. If they both have the same number of levels, you may choose which “Body of X” you keep.

Critique Guidelines
For any monster to be put up, it must be critiqued. By you! Here's how it works.

Monster approval is governed by a group of experienced or thoughtful homebrewers, known as the council. The council currently consists of Gorgondantess, Hyudra, and Magicyop. For any monster to be put on the list, it needs only to be approved by any two council members. The council is not a closed entity, if you wish to be a part of the council, send them a private message and they may accept you.

Further, the council are not the only ones who may critique-- we strongly encourage you to help others round out their monster classes. Especially if you hope to one day be on the council, you will only be chosen for the council if you critique frequently and well.

If you intend to comment on monster classes in any way, you MUST read the below rules and follow them.

Critiquing Rules

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1. Respect
Respect is tantamount if you are working on this project. If you are disrespectful of a class or a homebrewer, you will face consequences within this thread. At all times we must all treat each other with respect. Ignore all other rules before you ignore this one. Never be disrespectful to another homebrewer.

2. Contribution
Try to always critique Monster Classes whenever you can. It can be very frustrating if no one will critique your class, and if you skip over someone's class, they may feel left out. Just remember that if you help someone out by critiquing their class, they will likely help you out by critiquing your class.

3. Flexibility
If you suggest someone change something about their class, be flexible if they don't want to. If they address your concern and really don't want to change it, you can still nominate the class regardless.

4. Standardization
Remember when you are critiquing that a class should be accurate to the rules below, in the homebrew section. Do not critique based on some imaginary rule which you have in your head, especially if that conflicts with our rules here. This is not to say you can't explain your position, if it conflicts with the rules, but encouraging someone to make a monster class outside of the rules of this thread is frowned upon.

How To Critique

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1. Take a good long look at the class. A skimming look will not do. Read the entire thing, and try to get the image in your mind of what type of flavor the creator was going for.
2. Comment on the class as a whole before picking it apart. Give your feelings in general.
3. Note how you feel about each separate feature of the class.
4. Make sure the class is in accordance with the homebrew rules below.
5. Remember to also say what you like about the class-- try to find one nice thing to say about every monster class you critique. Every crafter has their merits.

Homebrew Guidelines
Making a Monster Class is difficult, so don't think you can whip something up in ten seconds and get it posted. It may be long and hard to perfect it, but we'll help you through it. Follow these guidelines and you'll quickly be on your way. Remember to start out with ChumpLump's class template so that all classes are in a standard format.

Class Templates

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• Monster Class
• Therianthrope Class

Homebrewing Rules

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1. Flavor
Flavor and fun top all else when you are making Monster Classes. Your abilities should be interesting and fun, even if the original monster is fairly bland. Numerical bonuses are not fun. If you create a flavorful class which is awesome, we can work through any other problems.

2. Balance
Balance is vital when making these classes, it is easy to make a monster too powerful or too weak. Keep in mind all of the following rules when you are building a class.

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Base Attack Bonus and Saves: Don’t worry about staying too true to the Type’s Base Attack Bonus, Saves, Skills, and Proficiencies. Just because it is an Outsider doesn’t mean it should have Full Base Attack Bonus, All Good Saves, (8+Intelligence Modifier) Skills Per Level, and proficiency with all Martial Weapons. That said, Monster’s Class skills are usually a good idea to keep with the original. These things should be based on the Character class you are building, and not the Monster’s type. Undead and Constructs merit high Hit Dice by their constitution-less nature, and Lower Base Attack Bonuses, Skills per level, Class Skills, and Saves by their inherently stronger nature. Generally, undead and constructs should not have class skills, to balance out the benefits of these types.

Challenge Rating and Class Level: As a basic rule of thumb, the number of Levels in a Monster Class should be equal to the monster’s CR. There are exceptions to this rule, See Therianthropy, and we see no reason that a monster cannot be advanced beyond its CR.

If a Monster has more than 20 CR, it is recommended to build two monster classes. The first being a 20 level progression for the Monster Class, and the second being an Epic Level Progression for the Monster Class. We encourage Monster Crafters to build any monster that strikes their fancy, and will be more than willing to help with Epic Progressions, but it is recommended to get the important class features of an Epic level monster before level 20.

Natural Armor: Base Monster Classes that offer natural armor bonuses should generally base this bonus off of Constitution Modifier. The Default is Natural Amor Bonus is equal to the Creature’s Constitution Modifier. Some monsters merit the use of Strength, or Mental Ability Scores. Other, more defensive monsters merit a Natural Armor Bonus of 1.5 X their Constitution Modifier, and weaker Monsters may offer a Natural Armor Bonus of .5 X their Constitution Modifier.

Templates that increase Natural Armor, should offer a “Bonus to Natural Armor” opposed to a “Natural Armor Bonus,” The difference being that the former stacks with the later.

Ability Bonuses: Ability Scores shouldn’t increase more than +1 for any Given Ability Score per Level. If there is a good place to make an exception to this rule, it is First level, but even there it needs some justification. Ability Score penalties also require such justification, as that we are not terribly keen on them.

Monster Classes shouldn’t be terrible M.A.D. (Multiple Ability Score Dependent), as such we Request that a Monster Class be built with two or three Primary Ability Scores. Further, Bonuses to Ability Scores not particularly used by the Class should be explained, or justified. (Werewolves do not particularly use Wisdom, but Lycanthropy is known for expanding a creature’s Judgment and Awareness.)

No Level Left Behind: Monster Abilities should be broken down into separate features and abilities. More active abilities are better than passive ones, and options are always a good choice, well almost always. We strongly advise against Dead Levels. A Dead Level is a Level in which no ability is gained, or only ability scores increase. These are boring, and make your future Monster Players Cry. We don’t like crying players. This is possibly the second closest guideline to a rule. Don’t be afraid to build custom class features in order to keep a monster interesting, these are, after all, Player Character Classes, so they can be more interesting than your average monster. (As always active abilities are always more fun than passive ones.)

Flying: Shouldn’t come in before 6th level, Before then Feather Falling, Bonus to Jumps, and Gliding are all fine powers.

Large: Shouldn’t come in to play before 3rd level.

Huge: Shouldn’t come into play before 12th level.

Gargantuan: Shouldn’t come into play before 16th level.

Colossal: Shouldn’t come into play before 20th level.

Damage Reduction: Shouldn’t come into play before 3rd level, at this point it should be based on 1/2 the creature's HD.

Spell Resistance: Shouldn’t come into play before 3rd level, at this point it should be based on 10+ The creature's HD.

Energy Immunity: Shouldn’t come into play before 5th level, and should come with a vulnerability (+50% damage) to another element. Energy Resistance is usually a better choice, based on the Creature’s HD.

Full Casters: Should be weaker than your average Monster Class. Casting is good, and powerful, but this still doesn’t merit dead levels. Generally (Class Level-1) as Effecting Caster Level has been the mode for creating Caster Monsters, but other options certainly exist.

Special Abilities: Should Scale with HD!

Uses Per Day: At will is dangerous. Some Spell-Like Abilities and Class Features should not be at Will. Generally uses per day are based on the Monster’s HD, or a Ability Score. However, one option is to make it so that an ability becomes at will after it would gain a certain number of uses per day.

Spell Like Abilities: Some Spell-Like Abilities are too powerful for lower levels, it is completely reasonable to offer a weaker SLA and have it scale up to a Higher power SLA at higher Levels or Creature HDs. Summon Monster is a great example, where a Monster Class may gains access to Summon Monster I at level 2, and Summon Monster V at level 9.

In General: Monsters Should Synergize well with a virtual 'Favored Class.' If your monster wouldn’t multiclass well into another class, maybe you could re-examine it, keep in mind that players may want to play more than 7 levels.

3. Professionalism
Your monster is a work of art, and it should look like that. If people are going to use it, it needs to be high quality. It should not look shoddy, because we know you put a lot of work into it. Remember the following simple guidelines:

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• Title your monster class with size 5 font.
• Post an Image below the title
• Spoiler the Statistics and Table
• List HD, Skills, and Proficiencies in Bold
• List Class Features in the Order that they are gained, with italicized titles
• Spoiler Comments and Change-log.
• Clean Spelling! Please check your Spelling! Spell Check is your friend!

4. Ease of Use
Your Monster Class should be easy to use. People shouldn't have to puzzle out the intention of an ability. Speak plainly and avoid complexity if you can make something simpler (but don't be afraid to have a complex mechanic if the class will be more fun for it.)

5. Variety
Keep in mind that variety is good! If you offer your players choices on what abilities to gain or how to advance in the class, they'll be grateful to you. Feel free to do it, but remember it may not be appropriate for all classes.

If you have never made a Monster Class before, it is recommended you start out with a small one, though this is not required. Starting out with an epic monster is a sure way to bring pain to everyone in the project.

[Magicyop]

Base Monster Classes

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A

Abishai - Gorgondantess
Aboleth - by Oslecamo
Achaierai - by Gorgondantess
Air elemental - by AustontheGreat1
Allip - by Temotei
Anaxim - by Draken
Androsphynx - by Oslecamo
Angel of Decay - by Draken
Ankheg - by Kajhera
Annis Hag - by Hyudra
Anthropomorphic Animal - by Oslecamo
Aranea - by Oslecamo
Arcadian Avenger - by Zemro Shivic
Arcanaloth - by Frog Dragon
Arrow Demon - by Cogidubnus
Astral Construct - by Sciencepanda
Astral Stalker - by Fyrebyrd/Oslecamo
Awakened Monstrous Crab - by Flabort
Awakened Skeleton - by Oslecamo

B

Balor - by Oslecamo
Beguiler - by AustontheGreat1
Beholder - by AustontheGreat1
Blink Dog - by AustontheGreat1
Brain in a Jar - by Draken
Bralani - by BelGareth
Bugbear - by Crafty Cultist

C

Cat, Awakened - by Gorgondantess
Centaur - by Oslecamo
Cheshire Cat - by Geckoking
Cloud Giantvby Hyudra
Coatlvby Kobold-Bard
Cornugon - by Gorgondantess

D

Daeva - by Gorgondantess
Death Drinker - by Oslecamo
Death Knight - by monkman
Djinni - by Oslecamo
Displacer Beast - by Hyudra
Doppelganger - by Oslecamo
Dracotaur - by monkman
Dragonne - by Oslecamo
Dream Larva - by Magicyop
Drider - by I_Am_An_Undead/Lix Lorn
Dryad - by Bodez/Oslecamo
Duergar - by Jallorn

E

Earth Elemental - by AustontheGreat1
Entomber - by Gorgondantess
Entropic Reaper - by Crafty_Cultist
Erinyes - by Oslecamo
Ettin - by Temotei

F

Firbolg - by Oslecamo
Fire Elemental - by AustontheGreat1
Flind Gnoll - by Gorgondantess
Force Golem - by Gorgondantess
Forest Troll - by Volt
Fire Giant - by Hyudra
Frost Giant - by Hyudra

G

Gelatinous Cube - by Kobold-Bard
Ghaele Eladrin - by Oslecamo
Ghost - by Oslecamo
Ghoul - by CraftY_Cultist/Oslecamo
Githzerai/Githyanki - by Chumplump
Glass Golem - by Cogidubnus
Gloom - by Oslecamo
Gnoll - by Oslecamo
Goristro - by Monkman
Gray Jester - by Oslecamo
Green Hag - by ChumpLump
Grimlock - by Oslecamo
Griffon - by AustontheGreat1
Gynosphynx - by Volt

H

Harpy - by Hyudra
Hell Hound - by Crafty Cultist
Hill Giant - by Hyudra
Hound Archon - by Oslecamo
Hook Horror - by Frog Dragon
Hydra - by Oslecamo

I

Imp - by Hyudra
Iron Golem - by Gorgodantess

J

Janni - by Kobold-Bard

K

Kaorti - by Crafty Cultist
Kuo-Toa - by Hyudra
Kython - by Crafty_Cultist
Kython, Impaler and Slaymaster - by Crafty Cultist
Kython, Slaughterking - by Crafty Cultist
Kyton - by ChumpLump

L

Lantern Archon - by Volt
Leonal - by BelGareth
Lillend - by Oslecamo

M

Marilith - by Oslecamo
Marrutact - by Gorgodantess
Marraenoloth - by Gorgondantess
Medusa and Choker - by Oslecamo
Mimic - by Sciencepanda
Mind Flayer - by Oslecamo
Minotaur - by Oslecamo
Mephit - by Hyudra
Mezzoloth - by Frog Dragon
Movanic Deva - by Oslecamo
Mummy - by Oslecamo
MurderJack - by FlickerDart/Oslecamo

N

Nashrou - by Makiru
Nerra - by Draken
Nimblewright - by Temotei
Nixie - by Oslecamo
Nycaloth - by Frog Dragon
Nymph - by Bodez

O

Ogre Mage - by Oslecamo
Ogre - by Hyudra
Owlbear - by Kobold-Bard

P

Pegasus - by FirebirdFlying
Phasm - by Oslecamo
Phoelarch - by AustontheGreat1
Phoenix - by Oslecamo/AustontheGreat1
Pit fiend - by Oslecamo
Pixie - by Aranii
Planetouched - by Gorgodantess
Pseudo-Dragon - by Kobold-Bard
Psionic Mindflayer - by Gorgondantess
Purple Worm - by Hyudra

Q

R

Rakshasa - by Oslecamo
Rakshasa, Naztharune - by Gorgondantess
Ravid - by Kobold-Bard
Red slaad - by Oslecamo
Redcap - by Draken
Reptilians - by Gorgondantess
Reth Dekala - by Gorgondantess
Roving Mauler - by Makiru
Rukanyr - by Makiru
Rust Monster - by Kobold-Bard

S

Sahuagin - by Crafty Cultist
Salamander - by Oslecamo
ScorpionFolk - by Frog Dragon
Sea Hag - by ChumpLump
Shadowperson - by AustontheGreat1
Shaedling - by Monkman/Gorgondantess
Silthilar - by AustonTheGreat1
Slaad - by Trenelus
Son/Daughter of Silence - by Oslecamo
Soulspark - by Niezck
Succubus - by Oslecamo
Spell Weaver - by Winter King
Stone giant - by Hyudra
Sverfineblin - by ChumpLump

T

Tarrasque - by Oslecamo
Tengu - by Oslecamo
Thri-Kreen - by Oslecamo
Titan - by Kobold Bard
Treant - by Niezck
Troll - by Oslecamo
Tsochar - by Oslecamo

U

Unicorn - by FirebirdFlying

V

Valkyrie - By Niezck
Vargouille - by Oslecamo
Vasuthant - by Oslecamo
Vrock - by Gorgondantess

W

War Troll(prc) - by monkman
Water Elemental - by AustontheGreat1
Wight - by Crafty Cultist
Wild Hunt - by Oslecamo
Will-O-Wisp - by Kobold-Bard
Winter Wolf - by Frog Dragon
Wyvern - by Hyudra

X

Xill - by ScionoftheVoid

Y

Yuan-ti - by Oslecamo

Z

Zelekhut(inevitable) - by Oslecamo
Zern - by AustontheGreat1

True Dragons:

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Blue Dragon - by Oslecamo
Bronze Dragon - by Gorgondantess/Oslecamo
Fang dragon - by unknown
Golden Dragon - by Oslecamo
Green Dragon - by un_known
Red Dragon - by Oslecamo
Purple Dragon - by Oslecamo
Pyroclastic dragon - by Kyuubi/Oslecamo
Silver Dragon - by Oslecamo
Styx Dragon - by Kyuubi/Oslecamo
White Dragon - by un_known
Wing Dragon - by Oslecamo

Prestige Monster Classes

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C

Creature of Legend - by Hyudra

D

Death Knight - by Monkman

E

Evolved Undead - by Gorgondantess

F

Feral Creature - by Niezck

G

Gravetouched Ghoul - by Hyudra

H

Half-Celestial - by Crafty Cultist
Half-Dragon - by Oslecamo
Half-Fey - by Kobold-Bard
Half-Fiend - by Crafty Cultist
Half-Golem - by Oslecamo
Half-Illithid - by Crafty Cultist
Half-Troll - by flabort
Horrid Monster - by Hyudra

L

Lich - by Crafty Cultist

P

Phrenic Creature - by Niezck

S

Saint - by Magicyop
Spellwarped Creature - by Frog Dragon/Oslecamo

U

Ulitharid - by Oslecamo
Unholy Scion - by Monkman

V

Vampire - by Oslecamo

W

War Troll - by Monkman
Winged Template - by Niezck

Therianthropes:

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Wereconstrictor - by ChumpLump
Werecheetah - by ChumpLump
Wereleopard - by ChumpLump
Werelion - by ChumpLump
Wereraptor - by Betropper
Wererat - by ChumpLump
Werespider Hunter - by ChumpLump
Werespider Weaver - by ChumpLump
Weretiger - by ChumpLump
Wereviper - by ChumpLump

[Magicyop]

Unfinished Monster Classes

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{table=head]Monster|Council Approvals|Suggestions|Notes

Bleakborn|Magicyop|Magicyop|

Maug|Hyudra|Magicyop, Zemro Shivic|

Death Knight||Magicyop|Revised Class

Living Spell|||Originally by ChumpLump

Solamith|Magicyop|Magicyop|

Animated Object|||

Thorn|Magicyop|Bladesmith, Magicyop|

Swarmshifter||Magicyop, Hyudra|

Wendigo|Hyudra|Zemro Shivic|

Grell||Monkman, Rumel, Magicyop|

Umber Hulk|Magicyop|Monkman, Bladesmith, Hyudra|

Yellow Musk Creeper|||

Gibbering Mouther|Hyudra|Kajhera, Monkman, Bladesmith, Magicyop|

Half-Golem|||

Werescorpion|||

Pandorym|||

Lammasu|Hyudra||

Golden Protector|||

Dwarf Ancestor||Hyudra|

Jovoc||Hyudra|

Demilich||Hyudra|

Gargoyle||Hyudra|

Remorhaz|||

Manticore|||

Briarvex|||

Ragewalker|||

Half-Elemental|||
[/table]

Called Monsters

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Hagumemnon(Protean): Magicyop
Elder Evil: Magicyop
Karrash: Zemro Shivic
Wild Hunt Revision: Gorgondantess
Verdant Prince: Gorgondantess
Ethergaunt: Gorgondantess
Ultroloth: Gorgondantess?/TheGeckoKing?
Varakhat: TheGeckoKing
Vistani: Chambers
Chimera: Kobold-Bard

Requested Monsters

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• Ak'chazar Rakshasa
• Mohrg
• Cloaker

[Magicyop]

New Monsters
Awakened Cat: Meow!
Phrenic Creature: A template to give a creature hidden psionic power, latent within its mind.
Purple Worm: A tunneling brute built in an amazingly flavorful way.
Ankheg: Everyone's favorite acid-veined burrowing ant-lion!


Featured Monster: Bleakborn
Draining heat from the world to fill a bottomless pool of eternal chill.
This monster is unfinished, something it should not be! Whenever you have some time, take a look at whatever monster is currently featured, and give your thoughts on it. If you like it, help out this creature! Give it a nomination! If you don't, say what you'd like changed. Let's work together and see the above monster on the finished list soon.

[NineThePuma]

The concept is interesting, but I highly recommend that -all- classes from the old threads (especially the ones that oslecamo had his hands in) be checked for balance and, most importantly, thematic accuracy. "Do the abilities shown in the class match the flavor of the lore" is one of the most important questions that should be asked.

[Magicyop]

The concept is interesting, but I highly recommend that -all- classes from the old threads (especially the ones that oslecamo had his hands in) be checked for balance and, most importantly, thematic accuracy. "Do the abilities shown in the class match the flavor of the lore" is one of the most important questions that should be asked.

I agree completely. One of the biggest problems at the moment is not everyone has given their permission for us to link their classes, so most of the ones up there are Oslecamo's. While our focus will be on new monster classes, it's definitely worth the time to go back and revise the old ones.

[monkman]

Magicyop, You can put my creatures (all of them as well as the unfinished ones) in this thread

[Niezck]

Phrenic Creature

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Phrenic Creature Prerequisites
To become a Phrenic Creature, the character must meet the following requirements

Skills: 8 or more ranks in Knowledge (Psionics)
Special: Must undergo a psionic ritual whereby the mind of the creature is enhanced and unlocked.

OR:

Special: Must have been exposed to a hideous amount of psionic energies which would would normally be fatal, and survived.

Hit Dice: d4

{table=head]Level|Base Attack Bonus|Fort Save|Ref Save|Will Save|Class Features

1st|

+0

|

+0

|

+0

|

+2

|Phrenic Body, Phrenic Powers, +1 Cha

2nd|

+1

|

+0

|

+0

|

+3

|Power Resistance, +1 Int/Wis

3rd|

+1

|

+1

|

+1

|

+3

|Psionic Release, +1 Cha, +1 Int/Wis[/table]
Skills Points at 1st Level: (2+Intelligence Modifier) x 4
Skills Points at Each Level: (2+Intelligence Modifier)
Class Skills: The Phrenic Creature’s class skills (and the key ability for each skill) are… Concentration (Con), Craft (Int), Knowledge (Psionics) (Int), Profession (Wis), Psicraft (Int) and Use Psionic Device (Cha).

Proficiencies: The Phrenic Creature gains no proficiencies with any weapons or armour.

Phrenic Creature Class Features: The following are the Class Features of the Phrenic Creature.

Phrenic Body: Unlike other monster classes, the Phrenic Creature doesn't lose its racial ability modifiers. Its type remains the same.

It gains the (Psionic) subtype and immediately gains a single power point, regardless of whether it had access to psionics previously or not.

Stat Boosts: At 1st and 3rd levels, the Phrenic Creature gains a permanent +1 bonus to its Charisma. At 2nd and 3rd levels, the Phrenic creature can choose to either gain a permanent +1 to its Intelligence or a permanent +1 to its Wisdom. The choice made at 3rd level must be the same as the one made at 2nd. This results in a total of +2 Cha and either +2 Int or +2 Wis at 3rd level.

Phrenic Powers: At 1st level, the Phrenic Creature begins to unlock some of its psionic potential. It gains the use of a single Psi-Like Ability for every class level it has, gaining an additional PLA at 3rd. This results in a total of 4 powers at 3rd level.

The highest level power available as a PLA is equal to the Phrenic Creature's (HD/2)-1 (minmum 1). These powers are useable 1/XHD/day, where X is their highest available level. The save DC for these powers is equal to 10 + 1/2 HD + Cha modifier. Its effective manifester level for these Psi-Like Abilities equals its HD.

Each day at dawn, the Phrenic Creature may re-select the powers chosen and swap them out for any you qualify to select.

Power Resistance: At 2nd level, the Phrenic Creature gains Power Resistance equal to 11 + HD.

Psionic Release: (Su) At 3rd level, the Phrenic Creature gains the ability to unleash a torrent of raw psionic energy at its foes. Once per day per three HD, the Phrenic Creature can use this ability as a standard action. This is a ranged touch attack with a range of sixty feet that allows Power Resistance (but not Spell Resistance, even if transparency is in place). The target takes 1d6 untyped damage per 2 HD of the Phrenic Creature. If the target has a power point reserve, they lose a number of power points equal to the Phrenic Creature's HD and must make a Will save (DC 10 + 1/2 HD + Cha) or become Dazed for one round.

Comments/Changelog:

Spoiler

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Comments
I'm slightly unsure of the power progression, but other than that it was a pretty simple translation from SRD to monster class.

Changelog
[07/12/10]: Changed the list of powers to a selection and added Psionic Release.
[11/12/10]: Altered Phrenic Powers to allow for repickable powers.

[monkman]

Phrenic Creature

Spoiler

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Phrenic Creature Prerequisites
To become a Phrenic Creature, the character must meet the following requirements

Skills: 8 or more ranks in Knowledge (Psionics)
Special: Must undergo a psionic ritual whereby the mind of the creature is enhanced and unlocked.

OR:

Special: Must has a psionic parent.
What do you consider a psionic parent?
Hit Dice: d4

{table=head]Level|Base Attack Bonus|Fort Save|Ref Save|Will Save|Class Features

1st|

+0

|

+0

|

+0

|

+2

|Phrenic Body, Lesser Phrenic Powers, +1 Cha

2nd|

+1

|

+0

|

+0

|

+3

|Moderate Phrenic Powers, Power Resistance, +1 Int/Wis

3rd|

+1

|

+1

|

+1

|

+3

|Major Phrenic Powers, +1 Cha, +1 Int/Wis[/table]
Skills Points at 1st Level: (2+Intelligence Modifier) x 4
Skills Points at Each Level: (2+Intelligence Modifier)
Class Skills: The Phreic Creature’s class skills (and the key ability for each skill) are… Concentration (Con), Craft (Int), Knowledge (Psionics) (Int), Profession (Wis), Psicraft (Int) and Use Psionic Device (Cha).

Proficiencies: The Phrenic Creature gains no proficiencies with any weapons or armour.

Phrenic Creature Class Features: The following are the Class Features of the Phrenic Creature.

Phrenic Body: Unlike other monster classes, the Phrenic Creature doesn't lose its racial ability modifiers. Its type remains the same.

It gains the (Psionic) subtype and immediately gains a single power point, regardless of whether it had access to psionics previously or not.

Stat Boosts: At 1st and 3rd levels, the Phrenic Creature gains a permanent +1 bonus to its Charisma. At 2nd and 3rd levels, the Phrenic creature can choose to either gain a permanent +1 to its Intelligence or a permanent +1 to its Wisdom. The choice made at 3rd level must be the same as the one made at 2nd. This results in a total of +2 Cha and either +2 Int or +2 Wis at 3rd level.
Why cha? Why dont you just give it out full intel/wis?

Phrenic Powers: As the Phrenic Creature grows in HD, it gains access to a number of Power-Like Abilities useable a certain number of times per day as shown below. It must have the prerequisite ability to gain access to the appropriate powers.
What score governs the extra points?

{table=head]HD|Power|Uses|Prerequisite Phrenic Powers
1-2|Defensive Precognition|1/day/HD|Lesser
1-2|Force Screen|1/day/2HD|Lesser
3-4|Mind Thrust|1/day/HD|Lesser
3-4|Empty Mind|1/day/HD|Lesser
5|Body Adjustment|1/day/2HD|Lesser
6|Brain Lock|1/day/2HD|Lesser
7-8|Aversion|1/day/3HD|Moderate
7-8|Psionic Blast|1/day/3HD|Moderate
9|Intellect Fortress|1/day/HD|Moderate
10|Psychic Crush|1/day/3HD|Moderate
11-12|Psionic Dominate|1/day/4HD/|Moderate
13|Energy Current|1/day/4HD|Major
14|Tower of Iron Will|1/day/4HD|Major
15-16|Psionic Teleport*|1/day/5HD|Major
17-18|Fission|1/day/6HD|Major
19-20|Ultrablast|1/day/6HD|Major[/table]
* = At 20HD, this improves to Psionic Teleport, Greater.
This is a bit to much(too many abilities) maybe every couple of levels ,let it take an power that it wishes.
Power Resistance: At 2nd level, the Phrenic Creature gains Power Resistance equal to 11 + HD.

Comments/Changelog:

Spoiler

Show

Comments
I'm slightly unsure of the power progression, but other than that it was a pretty simple translation from SRD to monster class.

Changelog
No changes so far.

I think that maybe letting these levels stack with psionic class level would be a nice touch.

Magicyop,Does this critic stand with in your criteria?

[un_known]

As the other thread shut down for a time period I would like to request the Wendigo Template.

Please and Thank You,
Un_Known

[The Antigamer]

I respect all the creators here, and have been continually surprised by the good works produced by the community in the Improved Monster Classes project. While I can not, and will not, speak against individuals decision to split, I can ask for consideration of a less drastic means of disagreement. I'm not sure where the foundation for such an abrupt schism was formed, but I'm positive that a solution can be achieved that is satisfactory to all parties, rather than drawing a dividing line down the floor. All I ask is that the opportunity for such a solution is discussed.
Again, no disrespect to anyone, I'm just voicing my opinion that the project would be better as a single entity driven by the collective community, rather than two projects dividing the community conscience and effectiveness.

[Magicyop]

I respect all the creators here, and have been continually surprised by the good works produced by the community in the Improved Monster Classes project. While I can not, and will not, speak against individuals decision to split, I can ask for consideration of a less drastic means of disagreement. I'm not sure where the foundation for such an abrupt schism was formed, but I'm positive that a solution can be achieved that is satisfactory to all parties, rather than drawing a dividing line down the floor. All I ask is that the opportunity for such a solution is discussed.
Again, no disrespect to anyone, I'm just voicing my opinion that the project would be better as a single entity driven by the collective community, rather than two projects dividing the community conscience and effectiveness.

We're in the process of discussing just that with Gorgon right now. The idea was not to create a drastic split, rather, we were hoping to simply go our separate ways with two different Monster Class threads with different philosophies. Based on what we have observed, we felt as though asking Gorgon to change would just result in a hellfire spitting match, and nothing changing. If there is some way we can work this out better, I think we're all probably willing to try.

And let me remind everyone-- don't ask me if you're doing something right. I am NOT leader of this thread. I have just about as much hand in what happens with it as anyone does. The only reason why I posted everything is because it was agreed that I would be the one to manage the lists and formatting and such. I do not have any special power regarding this thread.

[The Antigamer]

We're in the process of discussing just that with Gorgon right now. The idea was not to create a drastic split, rather, we were hoping to simply go our separate ways with two different Monster Class threads with different philosophies. Based on what we have observed, we felt as though asking Gorgon to change would just result in a hellfire spitting match, and nothing changing. If there is some way we can work this out better, I think we're all probably willing to try.

And let me remind everyone-- don't ask me if you're doing something right. I am NOT leader of this thread. I have just about as much hand in what happens with it as anyone does. The only reason why I posted everything is because it was agreed that I would be the one to manage the lists and formatting and such. I do not have any special power regarding this thread.

You're thinking Gorgon's predecessor. Gorgon is much more open to change, as it should be, because Gorgon was the one who was always butting heads with Oslecamo about his heavy-handed, my-way-or-the-highway approach. I am certain that this can all be worked out, and we can get back to making monsters

[Niezck]

Believe us when we say that this was not some spur-of-the-moment idea. We've spent a good while discussing, contemplating and fine-tuning this through PMs before posting, so we are most certainly not confused or otherwise misinformed - a number of us had a similar idea due to a variety of reasons and decided to act upon it.

But, as Magicyop says, discussions with Gorgondantess are ongoing and hopefully this situation can be resolved.

[Magicyop]

It seems for now the best thing to do is to do as Gorgon did and temporarily shut down both threads. So, let's say that this hasn't officially started yet. There's no promises that we won't go through with this, but we're all going to discuss.

[Temotei]

Go ahead and take the allip, ettin, and nimblewright if you'd like to.

[Kobold-Bard]

Dunno if you wanted actual permission or were assuming you had it unless stated, but if it's the former then use mine all you like.

Can't say I'm a fan of splitting this concept up, but c'est la vie.

[Magicyop]

Okay, after discussing with some of the fellow creators of this thread, I think we're saying it's fully started now. Post whatever you want.

Phrenic Creature: On a brief glance, it looks quite fun. However, I might suggest cutting back the PLAs a little bit, just like Monkman said. I know they're all in the base class, but I think it gets a little crazy to keep track of. Personally, I'd enjoy some cool "option" here-- like a psionic Monster of Legend. Maybe fill out Level 3 with that?

[AugustNights]

Officially requesting the creation of a Demilich.

[Magicyop]

Officially requesting the creation of a Demilich.

Yes. Oh, yes! I can't wait to see that.

Could you post the Class Template you PMed to us earlier on this thread, when you get a chance? It would come in very handy. Further, can I request that you add a field for both 1) whether it is a base or prestige monster class, for easy classification, and 2) what source it is from. (Monster Manual III, Manual of the Planes, or if Homebrew, a link to the source. Something like that.) I think both would be really helpful. Thanks very much.

Almost done updating the thread with all the monsters we've been given permission to use.

[Niezck]

Perhaps granting a single PLA per HD of a level equal to (HD/2)-1 (min 1)?

Also, Monkman, it grants Cha because the original template gives +2 Int, +2 Wis and +4 Cha. I couldn't jam-pack all of that in, so I added the cha as standard (since it's the larger) and the choice of the int or wis.

[TheGeckoKing]

@Niezck
Looks good. I feel it needs to stack with existing psionics in some way, but is shouldn't end up a full manifesting prc, because otherwise everyone and everything psionic will take it. Maybe a bonus if you already have manifester levels?

[Niezck]

I wouldn't feel all that happy about making it psionics-friendly really. The fluff of the template is that of a naturally psionic creature in an otherwise non-psionic race. And, not trained psionics, just wild manifestations.

This quote will get the point across better:

Seemingly no different from standard examples of their kind, phrenic creatures harbor mental might.

Monsters who naturally possess psionic ability are not found as phrenic creatures. Phrenic creatures are freaks among their kind, otherwise normal creatures whose minds are more powerful than those of their fellows. Similarly, creatures who advance by character class are usually not phrenic creatures—they simply take levels in a psionic class to hone their mental powers.

More specifically the last part. This isn't a template for the ordered psions and wilders to further their powers, it's an entirely different thing, wild manifestation of raw psionic power.

[TheGeckoKing]

So, it's a freak of creation? Oooooo, that makes sence. It's just, with the requirements you got, it looks like it's inherited/intentional. Maybe just change that, and your golden.

[Niezck]

Alrighty, any suggestions for the requirements and/or the 3rd level ability?

[TheGeckoKing]

I got a prerequirement right here : Must of been exposed to a hideous amount of psionic energies which would would normally be fatal, and survived. Gives it that mutant feel.

And as for the 3rd level ability.......it needs something explody to reflect on it's raw power. Think mini Psi-Hadouken, something SHOOP DA WHOOP-y........Psicannon Blast, or something.

[AugustNights]

Tastes like 'Spellwarped' chicken to me. And I like it. Psionic Pollution. Oh the fun that could be had!

[Zemro]

Phrenic Creature: It seems fairly solid and straightforward overall, I have one main problem with the PSAs, and you can see that below. Here are my thoughts:

• I find the blue kinda distracted, reason behind that choice?
• Probably could specify what a 'psionic parent' is, though your intent is clear.
• Missed an 'n' in 'Phrenic' in the class skills table.
• I'm assuming the PLA DCs are Cha based since it's a mandatory stat, need to specify though.
• Also, how the creature's manisfester level is determined needs to be specified.
• Correct term is 'Psi-like Abilities'
• Also, my hesitation at the table comes from the fact that PSA are considered to be augmented with power points equal to your manifested (ie the maximum).
  At present, if manifester level for the PLAs equals hit die, a one level investment in the class nets the equivalent of 90pp worth of powers at level five. So a Fighter 4/Phrenic 1 would have 65pp more than a Psion 5 (bonus power points from a Int not accounted for). Said fighter would have 1750pp worth in abilities at Fghter 19/Phrenic 1
• So, manifester level definitely needs to be clarified. I may also need to be corrected or enlightened if I've skipped something. But first look makes me a bit bug-eyed.

I would also appreciate critique for my Thorn class, which I could move over to this thread if it would make things more convenient? There's a link in the unfinished monsters spoiler above, though.

EDIT: This post took a bit to write, checking above posts now, but leaving it as is currently.
EDIT2: Ah, excellent, PSA were addressed, points struck through.

[TheGeckoKing]

@Zemro

You do whatever you feel like doing. Dunno about the others, but I don't mind where the class is, personally.
EDIT: Was gonna post my Swarmshifter, but it looks hideously broken to me while it's on my Word doc, so i'm going for plan B - The Umber Hulk.

[Magicyop]

I got a prerequirement right here : Must of been exposed to a hideous amount of psionic energies which would would normally be fatal, and survived. Gives it that mutant feel.

And as for the 3rd level ability.......it needs something explody to reflect on it's raw power. Think mini Psi-Hadouken, something SHOOP DA WHOOP-y........Psicannon Blast, or something.

Love it. Imma Firin' Mah LAZOR!

Will go through and offer my thoughts on the unfinished monster soon, anybody who would do the same for the Living Spell would be much appreciated. I'm still working on adding new abilities for the Animated Object, and some clarifications must be added for Anima, specifically the Living Hand track.

Essentially what I'm going to do is for the "hand" spells, when you effect someone with your Anima, you may choose to grapple/bull rush/etcetera, whatever the hand allows, them. So, if you slam someone, you would deal a slam attack, then make a grapple attempt as a free action (well, really as part of the slam.) Sound okay to everyone?

GeckoKing, I'd really like to see the Swarmshifter. It's an awesome template. I'm really curious to see what you've done with it. Just my opinion, though.