Pathfinder [PF] Optimization Guides Compendium [Archive]

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Novawurmson

2012-02-16, 12:09 PM

One thing I have noticed about the boards is that, on average, classes with excellent optimization guides get played more often than classes that don't. Unfortunately for Pathfinder aficionados, most of the best 3.5 optimization guides don't apply to Pathfinder because they use class features, feats and items unavailable to "PF Pure" games or were written at the launch of Pathfinder, before Ultimate Magic, Ultimate Combat, and the Advanced Player's Guide.

I would like this thread to serve three purposes:

1. To act as a compendium of optimization guides for Pathfinder classes.

2. To inspire people to make optimization guides for those classes that lack them.

3. To inspire people to make better optimization guides for outdated or incomplete guides.

Core Classes:

Barbarian
-How to become the Lord of Rage by N. Jolly (https://docs.google.com/document/d/1plVgdYb5KYxtXiysgd_pzdK-37PCmz2u9VzpuvNPDdo/edit)
-Elewan's Pathfinder Barbarian Guide (https://docs.google.com/document/pub?id=1im9-alhmNPAIQknkclrrhLupSFb6vmMNnQmW8BuORBA)
-Anger Management: A Pathfinder Guide to the Barbarian by Novawurmson (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?p=12732426#post12732426)
-BARBARIAN AM SMASH - A Practical Guide to Breaking Faces (https://docs.google.com/document/d/1Ump_KFzNoD7x6aJ9ywGank5G9DzSVlef28bBbjuIq2U/edit?pli=1)
Bard
-Treantmonk's Guide to Bards: Pathfinder Core Rules (http://www.d20pfsrd.com/extras/community-creations/treatmonks-lab/test2)
Cleric
-Rogue Eidolon's Guide to Clerics Abridged) (http://www.d20pfsrd.com/extras/community-creations/rogue-eidolon-s-lab/rogue-eidolon-s-guide-to-clerics)
---Domain advice only
---Some people have problems accessing Rogue Eidolon's guides
-Tark's Big Holy Book of Clerical Optimization (https://docs.google.com/document/d/1h6-_4HvPvV-Tt7I67Gi_oPhgHmeDVA5SBl-WrJSgf5s/edit?hl=en&pli=1)
-Axe’s Guide to Finding Divinity (http://pfs.shadowsofcommand.com/Cleric%20Optomization.htm) RIP
Druid
-Treantmonk's The Druid Handbook Part 1: The Wild Mystic (http://www.d20pfsrd.com/extras/community-creations/treatmonks-lab/druid-handbook-part-1)
-Treantmonk's The Druid Handbook Part 2: The Spirit of the Beast (http://www.d20pfsrd.com/extras/community-creations/treatmonks-lab/druid-handbook-part-2)
-Treantmonk's The Druid Handbook Part 3: Druid Spells Examined (http://www.d20pfsrd.com/extras/community-creations/treatmonks-lab/druid-handbook-part-3)
Fighter
-Rogue Eidolon's Guide to Fighters (http://www.d20pfsrd.com/extras/community-creations/rogue-eidolon-s-lab/rogue-eidolon-s-guide-to-fighters)
---Some people have problems accessing Rogue Eidolon's guides
Monk
-Treantmonk's Guide to Monks (http://www.d20pfsrd.com/extras/community-creations/treatmonks-lab/treantmonk-s-guide-to-monks)
-kcmorris' A Guide to the Qinggong Monk (Pathfinder) (http://kcmorris.hubpages.com/hub/A-Guide-to-the-Qinggong-Monk-Pathfinder)
-A Comprehensive Guide to the Monk by Revel (https://docs.google.com/viewer?a=v&pid=explorer&chrome=true&srcid=0B7b8EGfd1Lu3MTNiMjIyMjUtOWVkYS00ODEyLTkwMTA tMTI3Yjk1MTFkNDFk&hl=en_US)
-streamofthesky's Zen Archer Handbook (http://www.minmaxboards.com/index.php?topic=2858.0)
Paladin
-A Guide to the Paladin through the eyes of a D&D 3.5 player (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?348211-A-Guide-to-the-Paladin-through-the-eyes-of-a-D-amp-D-3-5-player) by T.G. Oskar
-Cryptic's Guide to the Pathfinder Paladin: Being a God's Wrecking Hammer (https://docs.google.com/View?id=dcrgj6j5_15cf2jkgfh)
Ranger
-Treantmonk's Guide to Rangers (http://www.d20pfsrd.com/extras/community-creations/treatmonks-lab/test2/treantmonk-s-guide-to-rangers)
-Lastoths Guide to Archery Rangers (https://docs.google.com/document/pub?id=11JBYSqZhVxgKCPjYJBhH13k73j6fUoeFnVCKwutC42 M)
Rogue
-Rogue Eidolon's Guide to Rogues (http://www.d20pfsrd.com/extras/community-creations/rogue-eidolon-s-lab/rogue-eidolon-s-guide-to-rogues)
---Some people have problems accessing Rogue Eidolon's guides
Sorcerer
-The (almost) Complete Guide to Sorcerers: A Minstrel's Take on God's Hot Sister (https://docs.google.com/Doc?docid=0Ae0QGAqQqqSpZGNicGM2eHRfM2R0ejVtN2d2&hl=en)
---The document has been heavily vandalized/obscured by random comments. "Click the green button at the top right, and select 'Viewing.' It hides all of the suggestions and comments, leaving only the guide."(thanks to Squab and Extra Anchovies for pointing this out)
Wizard
-Treantmonk's Guide to Pathfinder Wizards: Being a God (http://www.d20pfsrd.com/extras/community-creations/treatmonks-lab/test)
-THE COMPLETE Professor Q's Guide to the Pathfinder Wizard (https://sites.google.com/site/pathfinderogc/extras/community-creations/professor-qs-lab)

Advanced Player's Guide:

Alchemist
-Ogre's Alchemist Guide (http://pathfinder.ogrehut.com/2010/07/alchemist-build-guide/)
-N. Jolly's Guide to Alchemical Genius (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?t=293307)
Antipaladin
-Bodhi’s Guide to the Optimal Paladin & Antipaladin (https://docs.google.com/document/d/1SoUzuIY8EXh2Q0-JULnlckrBzG1nO4NFp7lep8c9EwU/edit?hl=en_GB&pli=1)
Cavalier
-The Cavalier's Code: An Optimization Guide (https://docs.google.com/document/d/1uuAB8SfE5ssZLYwa1LuQQ4haz1tD1q28Iyl8XAdMNxY/edit?hl=en_US)
Inquisitor
-Jadeite’s Guide to the Inquisitor (https://docs.google.com/document/d/19N7y6cKFLAr2KMMiKc8A1XG6R4iOmwaNFS7iAs17zyU/edit?hl=en_US&pli=1)
-Bodhi’s Guide to the Optimal Inquisitor (https://docs.google.com/document/d/1gFK_A8YV84hMUMXjxvCLFTnGO2GF7CMQiGIYyAQ2kns/edit?pli=1)
---Needs Spanish translation
Oracle
-Channeling the Cosmos: A Guide to the Oracle by Sean FitzSimon (https://docs.google.com/document/d/1WdtrZCESRmVfljXY196wMrMLTnS8Uzk4DEk3oQdVZok/edit?hl=en_US&pli=1)
Summoner
-Saph's The Summoner's Handbook (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?t=184592)
---Finally, a GitP guide!
-Summoning Information - a guide to an alternate Eidolon (https://docs.google.com/document/d/1oRoaIVTmDH7k6tVbTdXzuw-dYTPkdRo57NYB5Wv7vJo/edit#)
-Getting into Someone Else's Skin: N. Jolly's mini guide to the Synthesis Summoner (https://docs.google.com/document/d/17Z77UBaz6lmvqTJRMqnY7hzwYUpPPsmxLcW_1X6w5DU/edit)
Witch
-streamofthesky's Witch Handbook (http://torchofspirit.proboards.com/index.cgi?board=general&action=display&thread=177)
-Hubble, bubble, toil and trouble. Fire burn and cauldron bubble (A guide to Witches: Pathfinder Rules) (https://docs.google.com/document/pub?id=1avH5AFYaZ838OC_W7BY_Bnt1TH9KGCc2ygTOb0CiYu 0)
-The Viking Irishman’s Guide to Witches (https://docs.google.com/document/pub?id=1SZl8EKYeB_NAmb_wdhIs4MN2D8pya_Y-v4Hs-ZB_M3s&pli=1)

Ultimate Magic:

Magus
-Walter's Guide to the Magus (http://www.d20pfsrd.com/extras/community-creations/-walter-s-lab/embedded-magus)
-Myrrh, Frankincense, and Steel: Kurald Galain's Guide to the Magus (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?423754-Myrrh-Frankincense-and-Steel-Kurald-Galain-s-Guide-to-the-Magus)

Ultimate Combat:

Gunslinger
-Cieyrin's The Gunslinger's Handbook (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?t=213035#post11719688)
-Surpassing even The Boss: N. Jolly's guide to the Pathfinder Gunslinger (https://docs.google.com/document/d/1En2ECuP1v63kTqGIUx5dpuhZQuoXl9Tc0UEj3P_xYN0/edit?usp=sharing)
-Drake_Rocket's Guide to Grand Gunslinginger Greatness (http://paizo.com/paizo/messageboards/paizoPublishing/pathfinder/pathfinderRPG/advice/drakeRocketsGuideToGrandGunslingingerGreatness)
Ninja
-Death from the Shadow: A Guide to the Ninja (https://docs.google.com/document/d/1dEZyEP-yooZdGprglxcEorpL_EnPfUqr6M89uHmF8Bo/edit?pli=1)
-Also see the Rogue guides, as the classes are mostly the same.
Samurai
-None that I can find; mostly the same as Cavalier

Advanced Class Guide:

-Arcanist Optimization Guide (https://docs.google.com/document/d/19eADtzhxjNq8n8esfos6gnmotwPAIFot-ouLztuQtqA/pub) by Thelemic Noun’s
-CTP's Guide to the Bloodrager (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?377753-CTP-s-Guide-to-the-Bloodrager&p=18271476)
-Raining Blood - The Bloodrager's Guide to Pleasing the Metal Gods (https://docs.google.com/document/d/1uV52XseHRUMKOM-fLF6oXwkF-bcmmPk93XR8u02-sYw/edit#)
-Happy Feet, Wombo Combo - A guide to the Brawler (https://docs.google.com/document/d/1NHhkx9fkI00i2_p8WxtWlEGPRdK4L4qVlkJ-JrHxmy8/edit?usp=sharing) by Secret Wizard
-The Investigator's Grand Turnabout: N. Jolly's guide-addendum to the Pathfinder Investigator (https://docs.google.com/document/d/1kImj9bhXndsbJGbFURIZBD0hl4rZQ5xyafN-p5PsJ7c/edit?usp=sharing)
-Pseudo Guide to the Skald: How to be Metal by Kalvit (https://docs.google.com/document/d/1lHp_ioueUwkoZzxBKYg4ha3uVV07K8RNngL4J5EqtYU/edit#)
-Potato Salad: A Mini-Guide to the Slayer (https://docs.google.com/document/d/1cQxqxrGfz5ynwlV032lZQnvCj96KhhbJxQaCmusThOU/edit#) by Novawurmson
-Piercing the Heavens: N. Jolly's guide to the Pathfinder Warpriest (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?478392-Piercing-the-Heavens-N-Jolly-s-guide-to-the-Pathfinder-Warpriest)

Pathfinder Unchained:
-Thread: CTP's Unchained Rogue Mini-Guide (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?420875-CTP-s-Unchained-Rogue-Mini-Guide)
-Unchained Monk: You Are Already Dead (https://docs.google.com/document/d/1vtxGT6RArwUBqSMTco-ekm9azMXWGox9tTD6Wp3rYTE/edit) by Secret Wizard
-The ABC's of VMC (Variant Multiclassing) (https://docs.google.com/document/d/1adD5wYmcP5lB4JYD8D3fUBFuumMeW4CKh9ZLVMgKSDc/edit?usp=sharing) by Novawurmson
-Amateur Night - A Guide to Variant Multiclassing (https://docs.google.com/document/d/1AfAS7-neWhv8Gn1UDQ5hdISJisS_ij-AXrYUEsB6fPM/edit) by Secret Wizard

Occult Adventures
-Sucking Counts as Airbending, Right? A Guide to the Kineticist (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?432093-Sucking-Counts-as-Airbending-Right-A-Guide-to-the-Kineticist) by Kira_the_5th
-Mastering the Elements: N. Jolly's guide to the Pathfinder Kineticist (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?436943-Mastering-the-Elements-N-Jolly-s-guide-to-the-Pathfinder-Kineticist)
-Kineticist's Wild Talents by Element and Level (https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/0B48Da6OoNofJRWNXVzlxampkWkU?resourcekey=0-6dXb9omxK6OwvsKO6x791Q&usp=sharing) by /u/AngelZiefer on /r/Pathfinder_RPG
-A Useful Guide for Kineticist Use of Burn, Damage, and Infusions (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?479198-A-Useful-Guide-for-Useful-Kineticists) by F50
-CTP's Guide to the Pathfinder Psychic (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?444796-CTP-s-Guide-to-the-Pathfinder-Psychic)
-Leasing Your Body for Fun and Profit: CockroachTeaParty’s Guide to the Pathfinder Medium (https://docs.google.com/document/d/18513dKdB74fbtloy7cKgCtJkHEsTrAa3SsS56LguMqQ/edit)
-One Man’s Junk is Another Man’s Power - CockroachTeaParty’s guide to the Pathfinder Occultist (https://docs.google.com/document/d/1P04zOczyXrBHm49qO0GYSsWDQiB8jgorRnAfd1gklH0/edit)
-Phantom of the OP-era: A Guide to the Pathfinder Spiritualist By CockroachTeaParty and Nova Wurmson (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?468133-Guide-to-the-Spiritualist)
-The Grandeur of Delusions - A PF Mesmerist Guide (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?438535-The-Grandeur-of-Delusions-A-PF-Mesmerist-Guide) by Novawurmson

Other Pathfinder:

-Bigtuna's Getting X to Y - A Pathfinder guide to using your ability scores (https://docs.google.com/document/d/1o91Z-s0R7Vf2Ujj1lFqGC5W--9JOyU0I6uC9XRIR5to/edit#)
-Everybody starts somewhere: N. Jolly's guide to creating Pathfinder Characters (https://docs.google.com/document/d/15KHVxqBUXkSaMbPS32UVY_eGi5BuzaH3NNvm07__XU8/edit?usp=sharing)
-Seize the Initiative; a resource to always being first (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?476869-Seize-the-Initiative-a-resource-to-always-being-first) by Yanisa
-The Big Fat Feat Compendium (WIP) (https://docs.google.com/document/d/1c5CQsqzKj6cIQD1sQJi1cA43fs8EgixYluInNQqR9G0/edit?usp=sharing) by Novawurmson
-A Guide to Traits (https://docs.google.com/document/d/1dVQA-uI740Hh8vq-zsnbHV6UwJg-4QKlpmkxBEmCdhA/edit) by Dragonamedrake
-[PF] A Brief Guide to Martial Tanking (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?p=16609983) by watchwood.
-CTP’s Guide to Pathfinder Mythic Adventures (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?t=316045)
-[PF] CTP's Guide to Words of Power by CockroachTeaParty (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?p=15638334)
-[PF] Oradin Mini-Guide. Or, How to be a Healbot, minus the 'bot' (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?t=257365), by grarrrg
-Archetype Combos: Doing all the work b/c reading charts is bloody annoying by Cieyrin (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?p=12555815#post12555815)
-Pathfinder: Dipping for Fun and Profit (mostly Profit) by grarrrg
(http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?t=230500)-Pathfinder Player Race List by grarrrg (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?p=11069415)
-Words of Power Handbook by The-Mage-King (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?t=205030)
-Strategy Articles and Player Aid Downloads for PFS (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?t=248582)
-Why work when others can do it for you - a guide to Summoning (https://docs.google.com/document/d/16dZ5SBQMS1Yi6531tXOkKE_rmXEwn4VFacOEQKiHA5E/edit?pli=1#)
-Spells from Summoned Monsters (https://docs.google.com/document/d/1hXTPH3JxSDD6n0a0dS8eywpQ3we09d_ToBWaL1yphBk/edit)

3rd Party Pathfinder

Psionics Unleashed:

Psion
-Mind Over Everything: A Pathfinder Psion Handbook (https://docs.google.com/document/d/1YVapC-VhuKDQ5vx4T2go8v4HdY6vX7U_FUA-IEn_yrM/edit)
Psychic Warrior
-On the Melding of Martial and Mental Mastery (https://docs.google.com/document/d/1kM0wGV_JnkCU6cYAdLFP-vzlPvU4PNDLR3rDMQBX-9Y/edit): Jackissocool's Guide to the Psychic Warrior
Soulknife
-Psyren's Sharpening the Mind: A Guide to the Pathfinder Soulknife (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?t=203014)
Wilder
-Where the Wilder Things Are: The Pathfinder Wilder (https://docs.google.com/document/d/1bb4KrtEGyJ0mWkPdMC7_wXiSrZOUibk4GL32aidD1WM/edit?usp=sharing) by Novawurmson

Psionics Expanded:

Aegis
-Armor of the Mind: The Aegis (https://docs.google.com/document/d/1U7FY9aFIXveyvQyUV2W7X2yZsLZlOpQARrWkC4DNmC0/edit?usp=sharing) by Novawurmson
Cryptic
-[PF] Seeing the Writing in the Walls: A Cryptic Handbook (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?473601-PF-Seeing-the-Writing-in-the-Walls-A-Cryptic-Handbook) by Gee-Chan
-[PF] Trapsmith, Tattoo Artist, Master Thief: Unraveling the Cryptic (https://docs.google.com/document/d/1RxC-BKcPvvsQELUGZVCCrd7Z5Rp5K3LoB_RGdjaQ1TA/edit?usp=sharing)
---WIP
Dread
-Fear Itself: a guide to the Dread (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?413252-Fear-Itself-a-guide-to-the-Dread&p=19705235) by Psybomb
Marksman
-[DSP/PF] You Only Get One Shot: The Marksman Mini-Guide (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?439885-DSP-PF-You-Only-Get-One-Shot-The-Marksman-Mini-Guide&p=19782123#post19782123)
Tactician
-Novawurmson's The Chess Master: A Tactical Guide to the Tactician (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?t=228324)
---WIP
Vitalist
-Psyren's Mental Medicine: a Vitalist Handbook (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?t=222365)

Path of War & Expanded:

-Collected Path of War Guides from Elricaltovilla (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?380631-All-the-Path-of-War-Guides-in-One-Place!)
---Includes guides for the Harbinger, Stalker, Warder, Warlord, and Zealot!
-PoW Discipline Weapon reference tables (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?370912-PoW-Discipline-Weapon-reference-tables) by Greenish
-Path of War - Ranged Maneuver List (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?373397-Path-of-War-Ranged-Maneuver-List) by Ilorin Lorati

Akashic Mysteries:

- PsyBomb's Guides to the Akashic Mysteries (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?377818-PsyBomb-s-Guides-to-the-Akashic-Mysteries!)
---Includes guides for the Daevic, Guru, and Vizier!

Spheres of Power

-The Orrey a Handbook to the Spheres of Power (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?434247-the-Orrery-a-Handbook-to-the-Spheres-of-Power&p=19676212#post19676212) by stack
-stack's PF SoP Elementalist Handbook (https://docs.google.com/document/d/15a4d5ga61bcWMuqJxBOEleKPSsSUgkzz-Yj7POJNhD8/edit)
-stack's Risky Business: A Thaumaturge Handbook (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?431813-Risky-Business-A-Thaumaturge-Handbook-(Spheres-of-Power))
-How to Win Friends and Influence People - The Eliciter’s Handbook by A.J.Gibson (https://docs.google.com/document/d/1Hw9e1gpZNg26OSWNcL3DZj351mKivJDQ1DgwRcydFLo/edit#heading=h.1vjofih198gt)
-Hedgewitch class guide (https://sites.google.com/site/bloodymountainpath/writing-stuff/sop-class-guides/hedgewitch)
-Mageknight class guide (https://sites.google.com/site/bloodymountainpath/writing-stuff/sop-class-guides/mageknight)
-A Voice from Beyond - The Soul Weaver Handbook by A.J.Gibson (https://docs.google.com/document/d/1241NAiUYcXwHPUCpBnFFyVn67l7xePF3hDKp2blsbWQ/edit#heading=h.613mgbct0vx7)

Pact Magic Unbound, Vol. 1:

-Pacting in Pathfinder - The Occultist Handbook (https://docs.google.com/document/d/1FGgq3CJYQaeAugHvaaws-ak1ryZzijKou_w1KN0D9HA/pub), By Psyren

In the Company of Dragons, Rite Publishing

So you want to be a dragon? A real one? Sure, I'll help! (Guide to Draconic Exemplar) (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?473271-So-you-want-to-be-a-dragon-A-real-one-Sure-I-ll-help!-(Guide-to-Draconic-Exemplar)) by Almarck

...and here's a whole 'nother "Guide of Guides" (http://www.minmaxboards.com/index.php?topic=1932.0) if this one wasn't enough for you!

...and ANOTHER (http://zenithgames.blogspot.ca/2012/11/the-comprehensive-pathfinder-guides.html)!

If you know of a guide, find a guide, or write a guide for any of these classes, please comment with a link!

Morbis Meh

2012-02-16, 12:13 PM

Just a note... Rogue Eidolon's guides never show up for me and apparently this is a common problem...

Novawurmson

2012-02-16, 12:14 PM

Just a note... Rogue Eidolon's guides never show up for me and apparently this is a common problem...

Hrm. I bet it's because they're in Google Docs format - I'm almost always logged into Gmail when I'm browsing the internet, so they work just fine for me.

I'll make a note of it on the compendium. All the more reason to have GitP guides for these classes!

balistafreak

2012-02-16, 12:36 PM

kcmorris has many other guides, in addition to the Qinggong Monk. Note however that these are not full compendiums, analyses, or breakdowns of the class like treantmonk is famous for, but just a few main pointers. "X is what you should focus, Y is a trap, Z is a respectable alternative" sort of advice, kind of like a longwinded forum post, but a little better formatted than most.

It's still great for getting SparkNotes version of a class's strength/viable builds, though.

jmelesky

2012-02-16, 12:43 PM

There's a similar thread (http://paizo.com/forums/dmtz3shy?Guide-to-the-Guides) at the Paizo boards which is probably worth poaching.

Novawurmson

2012-02-16, 12:49 PM

I mostly ignored kcmorris' guides that I read over; most of them that I saw just covered one archetype in little detail. I specifically included the Qinggong guide because every Pathfinder Monk should be taking Qinggong.

I'm going to go ahead and start on a PF Barbarian guide. Monk will be next, with Tactician being updated from time to time (but unfortunately unfinished until Psionics Expanded is released on the SRD).

@jmelesky: Well, that improves this list quite a bit. Making changes...

Cieyrin

2012-02-16, 12:55 PM

They're not on specific classes but my Archetype Combos Guide (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?p=12555815#post12555815) and grarrrg's Class Dipping Guide (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?t=230500) are helpful for figuring out what works together and what can be gained with a bit of investment.

Novawurmson

2012-02-16, 01:00 PM

grarrrg

2012-02-16, 03:12 PM

Ninja
-None that I can find
Samurai
-None that I can find

Ninja is basically a Copy/Paste Rogue. Recommend changing the text to something like "None specifically, see Rogue for general ideas"

Samurai/Cavalier is the same situation, just there there is no real Cavalier guide. *shrug*

Also, I have a fairly up-to-date 'Player Race (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?p=11069415)' guide. Good for quick-ish reference on Stat adjusts and Sizing. Does NOT go into great detail (like most race guides), but it can point you in the right direction.
Unless someone else has a better one somewhere?

Novawurmson

2012-02-16, 03:28 PM

Ninja is basically a Copy/Paste Rogue. Recommend changing the text to something like "None specifically, see Rogue for general ideas"

Samurai/Cavalier is the same situation, just there there is no real Cavalier guide. *shrug*

Also, I have a fairly up-to-date 'Player Race (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?p=11069415)' guide. Good for quick-ish reference on Stat adjusts and Sizing. Does NOT go into great detail (like most race guides), but it can point you in the right direction.
Unless someone else has a better one somewhere?

Added and updated. I'd write a Cavalier/Samurai guide...but I don't want to encourage people to play a Cavalier XD

The-Mage-King

2012-02-16, 11:49 PM

There's my guide to Word of Power...

I'm still working on it...

Novawurmson

2012-02-17, 10:10 AM

There's my guide to Word of Power...

Added.

I'm making good progress on my Barbarian guide...might even by finished by next week. Is anyone up for taking on the Cavalier? It certainly is a class in need of optimizaiton.

Morbis Meh

2012-02-17, 10:27 AM

Hrm. I bet it's because they're in Google Docs format - I'm almost always logged into Gmail when I'm browsing the internet, so they work just fine for me.

I'll make a note of it on the compendium. All the more reason to have GitP guides for these classes!

I am always logged onto Gmail... they still don't work most people on the paizo board say the same...

slugboy_73

2012-02-17, 10:30 AM

Thank you so very much for posting this Nova!! I do have the Piazo one fav'ed and now this one is too!

Krazzman

2012-02-17, 01:39 PM

Novawurmson

2012-02-17, 02:34 PM

Nice one Nova :D

But there is one problem, some of these guides are either incomplete (Barbarian one wasn't changed in these past 5 month, your guide is still in progress...) or, like walters, designed for PFS -> not optimal enough. Would be great if you could mention things like that.

Yup. The next step in this "Guide to the Guides" is to make notes on what guides are incomplete, core-only, etc. Some of these guides I've read in detail, repeatedly (such as Treantmonk's Ranger handbook) and some of them I've only skimmed once. If anyone wants to help make notes on them, I'd appreciate it.

Cieyrin

2012-02-17, 07:45 PM

Gunslinger's Handbook will get finished someday, it's just I keep getting kicked by RL, like finding out this morning there was a death in my family and I'll possibly be attending the funeral, depending on whether I can afford to get there or not. Things just keep piling on...

Krazzman

2012-02-22, 08:17 AM

Another thing I just saw...

Why only one Paladin Guide? There is another one on the paizo boards that is better than the one you listed here.
Just can't remember the name of the author right now... I think it was something with "H"...

Novawurmson

2012-02-26, 09:20 PM

I used my own compendium today when trying to build a Cleric.

...We need a better Cleric guide :smallannoyed:

grarrrg

2012-02-26, 10:21 PM

I used my own compendium today when trying to build a Cleric.

...We need a better Cleric guide :smallannoyed:

Why?
Just because one only covers Domains
Another assumes Clerics should never-ever-ever get into Melee (no not even then), and worries too much about PCS compatibility, and seems woefully out of date.
And the third... actually the Big Holy Book doesn't seem too bad. Although he is quite a bit biased/crazy in certain areas (he mentions Barb 2 being a good dip and "necessary to enter the Rage Prophet PrC"....yeah....).

Oh, and the fact that NONE of them cover Sub-Domains EVER?

StreamOfTheSky

2012-06-02, 01:21 AM

Wow, you found the workings of my guide from my game forum. :smallsmile:

That is far from complete, though. The most up to date version of my Witch Guide is here (http://www.minmaxboards.com/index.php?topic=480.0).

I also have a Zen Archer Monk handbook (http://www.minmaxboards.com/index.php?topic=2858.0).

In addition to the paizo forum guide to the guides, you may also find the minmaxboards thread for PF handbooks (http://www.minmaxboards.com/index.php?topic=1932.0) useful.

Novawurmson

2012-06-02, 03:08 PM

I think this might be thread necromancy, but I was planning on PMing a Mod to ask for permission to update this soon anyway.

I'll update with these links soon - prolly tomorrow.

Edit: OOOOOoooor I could do it hella later. Well, they're up now.

Golkiwu

2012-06-02, 04:23 PM

Whenever I read the Monk Guides, I always see the mention of supplying the Wizard with Wands to buff the Monk. I prefer to use the following Trait instead:

Dangerously Curious

You have always been intrigued by magic, possibly because you were the child of a magician or priest. You often snuck into your parent’s laboratory or shrine to tinker with spell components and magic devices, and often caused quite a bit of damage and headaches for your parent as a result.

Benefit: You gain a +1 bonus on Use Magic Device checks, and Use Magic Device is always a class skill for you.

It takes skill points to get it up, and it helps to have a decent Charisma score (there is a cheap headband for that though), but once you hit +19 (and you get a +1 on it from the trait) you can use any wand you want, no Wizard required.

Just saying.....:smallwink:

StreamOfTheSky

2012-06-02, 05:16 PM

Dangerously curious is great. It just takes a long time to get your UMD to +19 when charisma is your class's only dump stat. Even with charisma "only" dumped to 8, you're going to need to be level 16 (16 ranks -1 cha +1 trait +3 class skill bonus) just to be able to use those wands w/o chance of failure.

Also, I tend to suggest pearls of power, not wands. A wand of mage armor means that +4 AC is going poof anytime anyone casts dispel. Mage Armor at the Wizard's full caster level? That's gonna last. Ideally, you don't need to buy him pearls and he's enough of a team player to see the value in using some low level spells to help you out, but whatever.

deuxhero

2012-06-02, 05:35 PM

Because the trait seems to be invisible to the d20pfsrd.com search function (even searching for it by name fails to bring up anything) and rarely shows up in discussion, I might as well mention Underlying Principles (http://www.d20pfsrd.com/traits/religion-traits/underlying-principals-nethys) also works if you can pull traits from outside the APG/UM/UC. It's mainly for (Anti)Paladins and possibly Rangers, who can't get both Magical Knack and Dangerously Curious at the same time.

Novawurmson

2012-07-06, 08:05 PM

Added "Strategy Articles and Player Aid Downloads for PFS and Pathfinder in general" by Harpy!

Numinous

2012-09-04, 05:49 PM

I've found these guides by neonchameleon (here (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showpost.php?p=13714318&postcount=616)) useful:

Non-combat eidolons (https://docs.google.com/document/d/1oRoaIVTmDH7k6tVbTdXzuw-dYTPkdRo57NYB5Wv7vJo/edit#)

a guide to summoning (https://docs.google.com/document/d/16dZ5SBQMS1Yi6531tXOkKE_rmXEwn4VFacOEQKiHA5E/edit?pli=1#)

Novawurmson

2012-09-04, 05:52 PM

I've found these guides by neonchameleon

Added both. Thanks!

Andvare

2012-09-05, 05:10 AM

There is also this just shy of 200 pages long wizard guide. (https://docs.google.com/document/d/13IZTV59ItNsK63RHQo2XGkjMKiU8LfRu5PCaE3R5lco/edit)

From here (http://paizo.com/forums/dmtz6anq?Complete-Wizard-Guide-Ver-20)

He seems to put a bit too much emphasis on the high levels and hates enchanting with a passion. I also get the distinct feeling that he loves blasting, and rates the spells accordingly.

Novawurmson

2012-09-05, 08:33 AM

Andvare

2012-09-05, 11:21 AM

Read over it and added it. I don't agree with all of his conclusions, but he does eventually get around to saying that a Wizard should buff and do battlefield control instead of using damage spells primarily, and there is a lot of useful information in there even if you need to dig a little.

Yeah, that was my conclusion as well.
His original add-on to Treantmonks guide were heavily in favour of blasting IIRC, blasting with matemagic, but still blasting.

Andvare

2012-09-05, 11:38 AM

My own list of spells you can cast via Summon Monster. Unfortunately, there is a lot of the creature that have SLAs you cannot use, due to them having a material cost. True Seeing for example. A darn shame.

https://docs.google.com/document/d/1hXTPH3JxSDD6n0a0dS8eywpQ3we09d_ToBWaL1yphBk/edit

Andvare

2012-09-06, 01:52 AM

There is a new barbarian guide over on the Paizo forums.

https://docs.google.com/document/d/1Ump_KFzNoD7x6aJ9ywGank5G9DzSVlef28bBbjuIq2U/edit?pli=1

I'm not all to well versed in the workings of the barbarian, so I can't say if it is on the level or not. Seems decent enough, but doesn't bring up much that the other did, me thinks.

Novawurmson

2012-09-06, 07:56 AM

Added both. Of course, I'm partial to my own Barbarian guide, but BARBARIAN AM SMASH includes descriptions of feats and sample builds - two things mine doesn't.

grarrrg

2012-09-06, 05:31 PM

Added both. Of course, I'm partial to my own Barbarian guide, but BARBARIAN AM SMASH includes descriptions of feats and sample builds - two things mine doesn't.

Your guide also lacks the BEST OPENING PARAGRAPH EVER!!!1!!

Akal Saris

2012-09-06, 08:24 PM

It's short & a rather niche guide, but you're welcome to add my guide on using the channel energy feats offensively as a cleric/oracle:

The Hangover Cleric Build/Mini-Guide (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?p=13218094#post13218094)

Doorhandle

2013-01-20, 03:16 AM

I would suggest this guide (https://docs.google.com/document/pub?id=11JBYSqZhVxgKCPjYJBhH13k73j6fUoeFnVCKwutC42 M)to archery rangers, particularly the detail in which it explains the animal companions usefulness.

Also, found a ninja guide. (https://docs.google.com/document/d/1dEZyEP-yooZdGprglxcEorpL_EnPfUqr6M89uHmF8Bo/edit?pli=1)

Novawurmson

2013-01-20, 08:42 PM

Broken Zenith

2013-02-18, 01:22 PM

I thought I'd point people to the Comprehensive Guides Guide (http://zenithgames.blogspot.com/2012/11/the-comprehensive-pathfinder-guides.html). It has virtually every Pathfinder guide on the interwebs.

Comprehensive Guides Guide (http://zenithgames.blogspot.com/2012/11/the-comprehensive-pathfinder-guides.html)

Voyd211

2013-02-25, 12:42 PM

Gnaeus

2013-02-25, 12:52 PM

I have a general optimization guide in my sig. Not 3.5/pf specific, but good general optimization stuff.

Voyd211

2013-02-25, 05:07 PM

Cieyrin

2013-02-25, 06:57 PM

Besides my earlier post, a lot of the current optimization guides don't cover for the featured and uncommon races. How good is a kobold sorcerer? A goblin alchemist? A merfolk summoner?

Some of these guides, I'd like some expansion as far as races are concerned.

I cover them in mine, though I really need to revise some of my earlier content and I have no idea when I'll find the time to do so...stupid job taking up guide writing time. :smalltongue:

StreamOfTheSky

2013-02-25, 07:25 PM

Voyd211

2013-02-25, 09:46 PM

grarrrg

2013-02-26, 05:02 PM

Well, there IS the Draconic Aspect feat tree. Isn't that helpful to kobolds?

Increased natural armor, fly speed, breath weapon and +6 resistance to sleep and paralysis doesn't look like anything to sneeze at.

Technically yes, it helps.
But for the cost (4 feats!) it doesn't help near enough.

+1 Natural Armor is pretty poor (there is both an Alt-Race Trait and a Feat to get either this or Energy Resist 5, since the Resist is overall better, it is assumed you'd take the Trait).
One "wings" feat gets you "Feather Fall that requires a Skill Check", a 2nd feat (at level 10) gives you a 20ft. Fly Speed.
The Breath Weapon just makes me laugh. With the one feat, you get a _one_ per day Breath that does 2d6 damage. With a 2nd feat you get a _two_ per day Breath that does 4d6 damage (ooooh...aaah).

The only thing worth salvaging here is the Fly Speed, and I'm not sure that it is worth 3 feats for only a 20ft. Flight Speed.

OverdrivePrime

2013-02-26, 08:23 PM

Subscribed!
Thanks for the initiative on this valuable thread, Nova! http://i177.photobucket.com/albums/w219/mwellenstein/Win/horns.gif

Crustypeanut

2013-03-15, 06:55 AM

Love this thread, as I have it favorited and check it all the time when I need a optimization guide.

However, theres one thing I think is missing - guides to major PF prestige classes, such as the Arcane Trickster, Dragon Disciple, etc.

Is it that there are no good actual guides for them? If so, I might get around to making a PF Mystic Theurge guide.. imo the class is so complex due to its.. insanity.. that it needs a guide lol.

Anyhoo, thanks for compiling these guides!

Blade Conduit

2013-03-15, 11:41 AM

Anyone know of one for rangers that covers the natural attack combat style? I could use some help. Thanks much!

Blind_Prophet

2013-06-29, 01:13 AM

Andvare

2013-06-29, 04:19 AM

Are there any guides like this for races? Like, classes, skills and feats that work well with a given race?

For instance, a Treantmonk-style overview of kobolds, along with the classes, feats and skills that complement them.

There is this (https://docs.google.com/document/pub?id=1XvXoXHlLBk6bdi-8es4r-FDLiaEGnM9YTW6hMl5kuQo) one. But it is completely bonkers. I disagree with a lot of the stuff in there, if not all of it.

Drachasor

2013-06-29, 07:11 AM

Kobold is easy to cover:

Don't be a kobold. Ever. No, not even then.

There, that was easy. I'd like to thank Paizo for making the writing of this advice so easy by giving kobolds a net -6 to stats compared to most races and not one single redeeming quality or even "weak, but cool" flavor option. If only all my guides could be so quick to write and yet completely informative.

Or port in all the 3.5 Kobold stuff and ignore the Paizo stuff (except traits, I guess). And don't forget the web supplement. (http://www.wizards.com/default.asp?x=dnd/we/20060420a) You know, I don't know why it seems almost everyone involved with Pathfinder seems to hate to involve anything with 3.5. There's quite a bit that can be ported without a problem. Hmm, you would need to give 3.5 Kobolds another +2 bonus to a stat. I'd say Charisma would work. That or decrease the Strength penalty to -2.

Paizo loves to make things total crap so that if you like a concept you have to suffer being awful. Heck, compare Kobold flying options to Aasimar or Sylphs. Kobolds need more feats and get something worse. Lame! Races of the Dragon just does Kobolds better.

Novawurmson

2013-06-29, 11:30 AM

Anyone found a better Alchemist guide? Orc's is nice but no where near the in depth nature of other guide's like Treant Monk's God Wizard guide or Walter's guide to the magus.

Note: I'm not trying trying to be rude I'm just hoping I missed something and coming from 3.5/4e where the only issue with guides is choosing which of the 20 guides for each class you prefer it's kinda sad to see guoides so scarce (despite PF proving itself to be superior)

Actually, part of the point of starting this compendium was to draw attention to the fact that not every class has a guide and not every class has a good guide. One of my players is considering alchemist for my next campaign, and I've been toying with the idea of starting a guide - though I still haven't really finished my barbarian guide.

137beth

2013-06-29, 12:45 PM

Blind_Prophet

2013-06-29, 09:45 PM

So...I can't help but notice that there are two (http://paizo.com/threads/rzs2m612&page=1?Guide-to-the-Class-Guides) other meta-guides (http://zenithgames.blogspot.com/2012/11/the-comprehensive-pathfinder-guides.html) for PF, which contain several guides not on your list:smallsmile:

The 2nd has way more class guides than the first but the 1st one has a bunch more Prestige Class guides and "Other" guides...if you (Nova) took what your missing from both guides yours would be quite extensive than we could focus on trying to petition people who are good at these guides things to nicely make some of the missing ones...or have people point them out

Novawurmson

2013-06-30, 12:15 AM

Alchemist is probably the most obviously-undeserved class. I could make a thread about it, if there's interest?

Andvare

2013-06-30, 05:33 PM

Alchemist is probably the most obviously-undeserved class. I could make a thread about it, if there's interest?

Undeserved?

I like the idea of an Alchemist class, though I'm not all to happy about the way PF have done it.

Blind_Prophet

2013-06-30, 06:19 PM

Undeserved?

I like the idea of an Alchemist class, though I'm not all to happy about the way PF have done it.

Yeah It's more Drug Addict/Mad Bomber than Alchemist...I think he meant Underused

Novawurmson

2013-06-30, 08:24 PM

I meant "underserved" lol. I was a little tipsy last night on the forums.

Andvare

2013-07-01, 12:15 AM

I meant "underserved" lol. I was a little tipsy last night on the forums.

:smallbiggrin:

We've all been there, well, I have.

Blind_Prophet

2013-07-01, 07:03 AM

:smallbiggrin:

We've all been there, well, I have.

Either tipsy or up to 4am slaving away to finish a character concept cause your brain won't shut up about it. :smallcool:

Spore

2013-11-04, 07:07 AM

Cavalier Guide (https://docs.google.com/document/d/1uuAB8SfE5ssZLYwa1LuQQ4haz1tD1q28Iyl8XAdMNxY/edit?hl=en_US) - and a marvelous one.

Novawurmson

2013-11-04, 09:05 AM

Excellent! I'll add it at once.

Spore

2013-11-04, 09:33 AM

There is a Guide to Guides (http://paizo.com/threads/rzs2m612?Guide-to-the-Class-Guides) in the paizo forum. Along with the missing Samurai (https://docs.google.com/document/d/1gD4kwJXJPMUDGuKsvYiL03ACj-ZqiwDcMrkHtV9mmKI/edit) Guide.

N. Jolly

2013-11-27, 04:03 AM

Sup bro, can you take the (WIP) label off of my Alch guide?

Also got a barbarian guide of mine to add to the pile.

How to become the Lord of Rage (https://docs.google.com/document/d/1plVgdYb5KYxtXiysgd_pzdK-37PCmz2u9VzpuvNPDdo/edit?usp=sharing)

Novawurmson

2013-11-27, 09:50 AM

GhorrinRedblade

2013-12-09, 11:53 AM

Hello,

Pardon what could be a silly question from an extreme noob to this forum, but why isn't this thread stickied? Seems like handy info to keep up top-side.

Thanks,
Ghorrin

Novawurmson

2013-12-09, 12:42 PM

Hello,

Pardon what could be a silly question from an extreme noob to this forum, but why isn't this thread stickied? Seems like handy info to keep up top-side.

Thanks,
Ghorrin

It's a decent idea. My guesses as to why not:

1. There are very few threads stickied on the forums. Even some incredibly commonly referenced threads (such as Tier System for Classes and Urpriest's monsters explanation guide) aren't stickied, and I'd probably put those above mine.

2. It's fairly easy to find this thread (and many of these class guides) with a quick Google search.

3. You can subscribe to threads to keep track of threads you like or think you'll use again.

GhorrinRedblade

2013-12-09, 12:57 PM

It's a decent idea. My guesses as to why not:

1. There are very few threads stickied on the forums. Even some incredibly commonly referenced threads (such as Tier System for Classes and Urpriest's monsters explanation guide) aren't stickied, and I'd probably put those above mine.

2. It's fairly easy to find this thread (and many of these class guides) with a quick Google search.

3. You can subscribe to threads to keep track of threads you like or think you'll use again.

Fair points all, just a different manner of doing business than I'm used to. This became my first Subscribed thread. :)

Thanks for the prompt reply.

Ghorrin

grarrrg

2013-12-09, 10:41 PM

Fair points all, just a different manner of doing business than I'm used to. This became my first Subscribed thread. :)

Subscribe?

Heck, this sucker's in my signature!

Novawurmson

2013-12-09, 11:32 PM

Subscribe?

Heck, this sucker's in my signature!

::blush:: You guys.

grarrrg

2013-12-09, 11:44 PM

::blush:: You guys.

There's a :smallredface: for that :smallwink:

Darkholme

2013-12-21, 08:20 PM

http://zenithgames.blogspot.ca/2012/11/the-comprehensive-pathfinder-guides.html

Another comprehensive list. I imagine you guys have both got some the other doesn't.

The Random NPC

2013-12-21, 08:58 PM

There is a notable threads sticky on the main roleplaying section. Maybe we could ask for one here.

TomeWyrm

2014-09-21, 04:59 AM

Magic Item Crafter Guide (http://rpg.stackexchange.com/questions/41773/pathfinder-magic-item-crafter-build-guide)

As sub-optimal as it may seem (or be) to be a dedicated crafter, in spite of (or because of, depending on your point of view) the changes they made to magic item crafting in the transition to Pathfinder. I saw fit to play one because it's a useful role in our current campaign (I've found many MANY things to be annoyed at with some of the "common knowledge" about CharOp... but that's a rant that so totally does not belong here), I found this guide and I figured it might as well get put into the Guides compendium.

Cheers, and I hope someone else finds it useful! :biggrin:

Zubrowka74

2014-09-22, 12:04 PM

"Axe’s Guide to Finding Divinity" returns a 404.

"THE COMPLETE Professor Q's Guide to the Pathfinder Wizard" should point to the PFSRD lab page (http://sites.google.com/site/pathfinderogc/extras/community-creations/professor-qs-lab) to avoid gettin' the Google Doc in suggestion mode, which makes it impossible to peruse.

Elfkin_King

2014-10-07, 11:56 AM

http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?348363-Defending-the-Weak-A-Guide-to-the-PoW-Warder-WIP
For the PoW Warder :)

Elfkin_King

2015-03-04, 02:30 AM

stack

2015-03-04, 06:17 AM

http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?348363-Defending-the-Weak-A-Guide-to-the-PoW-Warder-WIP
For the PoW Warder :)

Elric has a number of PoW guides that have a shared thread with links to them. On phone, so I can link later if no one beats me to it.

PsyBomb

2015-03-04, 07:59 AM

I have posted guides to DSP's Akashic Mysteries, which I like to think are fairly good. Just need to finish up with equipment and traits. Link in my sig (/shameless plug).

Also slowly working on a Dread guide, but it isn't in postable form yet.

Elricaltovilla

2015-03-04, 08:43 AM

http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?348363-Defending-the-Weak-A-Guide-to-the-PoW-Warder-WIP
For the PoW Warder :)

There are guides for all the PoW and PoW:E classes except for the newly released Mystic in my signature. They're all located in one easy to use thread too because I'm too lazy to keep updating forum posts.

Novawurmson

2015-03-05, 12:39 PM

It's a shame that a lot of those guides haven't kept up with and been updated in such a long while. Like, Walters Guide to the Magus... It's got a BUNCH of Aracana missing, and feat suggestions. I wish someone would come along and just do an updated Arcana guide, or maybe a set of guides for class abilities like that that have been added to over the years since these original guides (though amazing, and still very relevant) were published.

Ugh. Tell me about it. My own guides are woefully out of date. Lemme see if I've got all the PoW and Akashic guides up.

Edit: None of the Akashic guides were up? Well, at least that's fixed.

Edit: Added the master list for PoW guides from Elricaltovilla.

PsyBomb

2015-03-05, 01:26 PM

I'd like to add on, for me, that if anyone sees any issue with my guides or knows of something I missed, bring it up to me either on the guide, in my thread, or by PM and I'll look it over for addition. I have three guides up now, with at LEAST one more coming in the next couple of months (Dread needed one). A decent class guide covers a ton of material, which is why so many people like making more focused entries. This means that it is very easy for me to have missed something.

Elfkin_King

2015-03-05, 08:38 PM

Ugh. Tell me about it. My own guides are woefully out of date. Lemme see if I've got all the PoW and Akashic guides up.

Edit: None of the Akashic guides were up? Well, at least that's fixed.

Edit: Added the master list for PoW guides from Elricaltovilla.

Anyone up for doing an updated Magus Arcana Handbook? :3

brandnewb

2015-03-06, 08:17 PM

I just wanted to point out that I have been using this thread as my go two guide for guides for about a year now.

Great work fellas!

Edit:

Also Bodhi’s Guide to the Optimal Paladin & Antipaladin (https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B9vv1a7v3y5BSGpObWxScUs1YlU/edit?pli=1) has moved.

Secret Wizard

2015-06-03, 10:11 AM

[WIP] Guide to Variant Multiclassing (https://docs.google.com/document/d/1AfAS7-neWhv8Gn1UDQ5hdISJisS_ij-AXrYUEsB6fPM/edit?usp=sharing)

Extra Anchovies

2015-06-03, 10:15 AM

Into the Darkness: A Guide to the Nightblade (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?418529-Into-the-Darkness-a-Guide-to-the-Nightblade)

A guide I just recently made for the Nightblade, a third-party class available on the SRD. Check it out; it's better-designed than a lot of Paizo's stuff.

PsyBomb

2015-06-03, 10:38 AM

Dread guide is up. Link in my sig.

grarrrg

2015-06-03, 08:48 PM

[WIP] Guide to Variant Multiclassing (https://docs.google.com/document/d/1AfAS7-neWhv8Gn1UDQ5hdISJisS_ij-AXrYUEsB6fPM/edit?usp=sharing)

Overall good work.
I would argue that Barbarians qualify for Extra Rage Power feat, and Paladins qualify for Extra Mercy feat, Maguses can take Extra Arcana etc...
Reasons:
* Doesn't say they don't qualify
* They qualify for other class-feature related feats > Extra Rage Rounds, Extra Lay on Hands, etc...
* The only features that do get a "don't qualify" are Extra Revelations and Extra Hexes, both for very abuse-able reasons (cheery picked Revelations can be quite strong, Hexes are 'at will').

Likewise, the you don't need to "assume" that the Sorcerer doesn't grant the Arcana, because it does not say that it does. You also don't get the bonus Class Skill.

Cavalier section should have a mention of Paladin+Order of the Star. While the Challenge bonus is a bit redundant (bonus to all Saves), the 1st Order power is solid. 1/2 of your level gets stacked onto your Paladin/Cleric level for Lay on Hands and Channeling power.

Gunslinger: The Exotic Weapon Prof for Firearms (http://www.d20pfsrd.com/equipment---final/weapons/firearms#TOC-Firearm-Rules) already covers ALL Firearms. 1st ability is exactly equal to a feat (possibly worse if Guns are not considered Rare for the game).
The Gunsmithing ability is _slightly_ better than a feat, as you get the Gunsmith Class Feature, not the Gunsmithing feat. Key difference being that the ability grants you a Battered Firearm of your choice. Granted, by level 7 you should be able to afford a Firearm anyway, and level 7 is pretty darn late to be getting something you want right away, but this is 'technically' better than just a feat.

Oracles, should note that not all Revelations are available (some only allow picking from 7 of the Revelations, others do go up to the full 10).

Wouldn't both with "gets better as new content is released" reminders. For Oracles this is kind of pointless, as you don't even have access to all of the current Mysteries. With other classes this is kind of a given assumption.

"Slow" progression is different than "delayed" progression. To me "slow" implies that the bonuses accumulate at a reduced rate > "1/2 character level". "Delayed" implies to me that there is an effective level penalty "character level -4".

Summoner...is pretty horrible. You get 1/day use of Summon Monster with ROUNDS duration at level 3
Eidolon runs off of the Summon Monster uses.
11th level bonus is 3 total, not plus 3.

Nihilarian

2015-06-03, 11:12 PM

[WIP] Guide to Variant Multiclassing (https://docs.google.com/document/d/1AfAS7-neWhv8Gn1UDQ5hdISJisS_ij-AXrYUEsB6fPM/edit?usp=sharing)Monk multiclass would probably be useful for a ninja. In particular they can use that bonus ki better than anyone else.

Edit: now that I think about it, I don't know if the ki gained from Monk multiclass would stack with the ki from Ninja. If not, probably not worth it, though a Rogue could take Monk multiclass and snag ninja tricks that use ki. You'd want to trade out Evasion though.

Cieyrin

2015-06-08, 05:55 PM

Monk multiclass would probably be useful for a ninja. In particular they can use that bonus ki better than anyone else.

Edit: now that I think about it, I don't know if the ki gained from Monk multiclass would stack with the ki from Ninja. If not, probably not worth it, though a Rogue could take Monk multiclass and snag ninja tricks that use ki. You'd want to trade out Evasion though.

The Ninja has this gem at the bottom of the entry for Ki Pool:

If the ninja possesses levels in another class that grants points to a ki pool, ninja levels stack with the levels of that class to determine the total number of ki points in the combined pool, but only one ability score modifier is added to the total. The choice of which score to use is made when the second class ability is gained, and once made, the choice is set. The ninja can now use ki points from this pool to power the abilities of every class she possesses that grants a ki pool.

So yes, you can stack Monk and Ninja for more ki but they stack levels, so you're not gaining or losing than if you'd stayed in either.

Ninjaxenomorph

2015-06-08, 10:15 PM

You know, I'm disappointed there isn't a Skald guide. I'd set out to make one myself, but I lack any actual play experience with the class; the only things I can say by just looking at the class abilities is that Fated Champion is an awesome archetype, and that I would pick up one of the Linnorm Death Curses.

Amphetryon

2015-06-08, 10:32 PM

As a general observation/reminder, some of the guides linked sprinkle in salty language that could be problematic in some locales. Off-hand, I know Tark's Cleric guide hit a language filter a couple of times.

Nihilarian

2015-06-08, 11:49 PM

The Ninja has this gem at the bottom of the entry for Ki Pool:

So yes, you can stack Monk and Ninja for more ki but they stack levels, so you're not gaining or losing than if you'd stayed in either.yeah, I know about that. I'm just not sure if the Variant Multiclass system changes things.

You know, I'm disappointed there isn't a Skald guide. I'd set out to make one myself, but I lack any actual play experience with the class; the only things I can say by just looking at the class abilities is that Fated Champion is an awesome archetype, and that I would pick up one of the Linnorm Death Curses.Here (https://docs.google.com/document/d/1lHp_ioueUwkoZzxBKYg4ha3uVV07K8RNngL4J5EqtYU), a skald guide.

Extra Anchovies

2015-06-09, 12:25 AM

yeah, I know about that. I'm just not sure if the Variant Multiclass system changes things.

Actually, it kind of does. Since the Monk VMC ki pool isn't granted by class levels, it fully stacks with the Ninja's ki pool. Ninja [Monk] is one of the few good VMC combos.

Molosse

2015-06-09, 05:42 AM

Cavalier Guide (https://docs.google.com/document/d/1uuAB8SfE5ssZLYwa1LuQQ4haz1tD1q28Iyl8XAdMNxY/edit?hl=en_US) - and a marvelous one.

I'm not a major fan of that guide. Wouldn't say he details any other ways a Cavalier can excel other than hit things hard, but alas, it is the only half-way decent guide for the class about.

Ninjaxenomorph

2015-06-09, 09:40 AM

Here (https://docs.google.com/document/d/1lHp_ioueUwkoZzxBKYg4ha3uVV07K8RNngL4J5EqtYU), a skald guide.

I was hoping for something talking about rage powers and spells, but that works.

Novawurmson

2015-06-11, 02:06 PM

Adding the skald guide!

CockroachTeaParty

2015-06-11, 03:45 PM

I've just finished a newly-minted mini-guide for the Unchained Rogue (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?420875-CTP-s-Unchained-Rogue-Mini-Guide).

Novawurmson

2015-06-11, 05:54 PM

I've just finished a newly-minted mini-guide for the Unchained Rogue (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?420875-CTP-s-Unchained-Rogue-Mini-Guide).

Consider it done (because it is)!

stack

2015-06-23, 11:00 AM

squab

2015-07-10, 03:54 AM

The sorcerer guide needs to be taken down. I'm not sure what it once was, but it looks like a wikipedia article if a wikipedia article had only been edited by trolls for the past year. I downloaded it to word because the online document was super laggy and discovered the first ~80% of the guide was pages and pages of the picture with slight formatting difference or something. And given how long I scrolled through it, it seems like several hundred pages. Then you get to the guide itself and literally everything is crossed out, I didn't see any color identifiers and a brief skim of the advice looks like trolls ate the useful stuff, digested it, and left their crap in its place. Like the advice on dwarf sorcerers: "Dwarves suck at sorcerers, if you don't understand why you need to learn the rules." This is basically what was in the guide, except my comment probably has better spelling and grammar.

Kurald Galain

2015-07-31, 07:03 AM

New:

Myrrh, Frankincense, and Steel: Kurald Galain's Guide to the Magus (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?423754-Myrrh-Frankincense-and-Steel-Kurald-Galain-s-Guide-to-the-Magus)

Extra Anchovies

2015-07-31, 11:02 AM

The sorcerer guide needs to be taken down. I'm not sure what it once was, but it looks like a wikipedia article if a wikipedia article had only been edited by trolls for the past year.

The thing is, those are only suggested edits. The real document remains. Click the green button at the top right, and select "Viewing". It hides all of the suggestions and comments, leaving only the guide.

However, the fact that you need to do so should be added to the OP of this thread.

Novawurmson

2015-08-15, 10:42 AM

My guide for the Spheres of Power Elementalist (https://docs.google.com/document/d/15a4d5ga61bcWMuqJxBOEleKPSsSUgkzz-Yj7POJNhD8/edit)

GitPg thread (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?421155-Elementalist-Handbook-%28Spheres-of-Power%29&p=19391308#post19391308)

Its not complete, buts its in pretty good shape.

The sorcerer guide needs to be taken down. I'm not sure what it once was, but it looks like a wikipedia article if a wikipedia article had only been edited by trolls for the past year. I downloaded it to word because the online document was super laggy and discovered the first ~80% of the guide was pages and pages of the picture with slight formatting difference or something. And given how long I scrolled through it, it seems like several hundred pages. Then you get to the guide itself and literally everything is crossed out, I didn't see any color identifiers and a brief skim of the advice looks like trolls ate the useful stuff, digested it, and left their crap in its place. Like the advice on dwarf sorcerers: "Dwarves suck at sorcerers, if you don't understand why you need to learn the rules." This is basically what was in the guide, except my comment probably has better spelling and grammar.

New:

Myrrh, Frankincense, and Steel: Kurald Galain's Guide to the Magus (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?423754-Myrrh-Frankincense-and-Steel-Kurald-Galain-s-Guide-to-the-Magus)

The thing is, those are only suggested edits. The real document remains. Click the green button at the top right, and select "Viewing". It hides all of the suggestions and comments, leaving only the guide.

However, the fact that you need to do so should be added to the OP of this thread.

Elementalist and Magus guides added; added the note about the sorcerer guide.

stack

2015-08-15, 01:07 PM

I have a thaumaturge guide and a general spheres guide now. Links in sig.

Thanks.

Novawurmson

2015-08-15, 01:34 PM

I have a thaumaturge guide and a general spheres guide now. Links in sig.

Thanks.

Added!

Also, I've been doing a ton of work on my aegis (https://docs.google.com/document/d/1U7FY9aFIXveyvQyUV2W7X2yZsLZlOpQARrWkC4DNmC0/edit?usp=sharing) guide today. It actually includes information from Psionics Augmented/Ultimate Psionics now! :smalltongue:

Mithril Leaf

2015-08-15, 01:46 PM

Added!

Also, I've been doing a ton of work on my aegis (https://docs.google.com/document/d/1U7FY9aFIXveyvQyUV2W7X2yZsLZlOpQARrWkC4DNmC0/edit?usp=sharing) guide today. It actually includes information from Psionics Augmented/Ultimate Psionics now! :smalltongue:

Thank you kindly friend. Remember to check out the Path of War and Akashic Mysteries customizations.

Novawurmson

2015-08-16, 08:24 PM

Thank you kindly friend. Remember to check out the Path of War and Akashic Mysteries customizations.

I put a note to add them later, but I think I'm going to wait until they're finalized and released before adding them to the guide. :smallsmile:

Rokku

2015-08-26, 11:14 PM

N. Jolly

2015-08-27, 12:07 AM

Oh man, I have like 4-5 guides that need to be added.

I'd say gunslinger, character creation, and kineticist need to be added to the list, synth summoner could too...am I forgetting any?

EDIT: Oh yeah, investigator. All links are in my sig.

Novawurmson

2015-09-08, 06:06 AM

I dug up this brawler guide via google and think it's worth sharing: Happy Feet, Wombo Combo - A guide to the Brawler (https://docs.google.com/document/d/1NHhkx9fkI00i2_p8WxtWlEGPRdK4L4qVlkJ-JrHxmy8/edit)

Added!

Oh man, I have like 4-5 guides that need to be added.

I'd say gunslinger, character creation, and kineticist need to be added to the list, synth summoner could too...am I forgetting any?

EDIT: Oh yeah, investigator. All links are in my sig.

I think everything's added now!

Mehangel

2015-12-03, 09:38 PM

Occult Adventures

Spiritualist Class - Guide to the Spiritualist (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?468133-Guide-to-the-Spiritualist)

Novawurmson

2015-12-03, 11:04 PM

I guess I should ask one of the authors.

Hey, Nova, can I add this to the compendium?

Yeah, sure. Go for it!

Almarck

2015-12-27, 11:44 AM

Assuming that I am able to post here,

I'm making a submission for a 3rd party class without a guide yet.

http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?473271-So-you-want-to-be-a-dragon-A-real-one-Sure-I-ll-help!-(Guide-to-Draconic-Exemplar)

Novawurmson

2015-12-28, 06:54 AM

Almarck

2015-12-28, 11:21 AM

I hadn't even heard of this class before. Adding it to the list, thanks!

Probably because it's a 3rd party class without a preexisting 3.5 fanbase like the Pact magic, Psionics, and martial adepts ... and is also a class with a very specific race requirement to play, that of being a dragon. Monster classes are kind of rare for a reason and that sort of thing isn't always allowed at tables.

But yes. Thank you for adding it.

Gee-chan

2015-12-30, 09:13 PM

Hello

I've been working on a Cryptic Handbook and would like to give permission to get it added to the guide, even as a Work in Progress.

The guide itself is here (https://docs.google.com/document/d/1py_1rNW0H-GfMgYejgRf_dVqacvSt3daN91iSAM6tlE/edit?usp=sharing) and the discussion thread is here (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?473601-PF-Seeing-the-Writing-in-the-Walls-A-Cryptic-Handbook&p=20245724#post20245724)

TheOneHawk

2016-01-09, 07:57 AM

I recently finished going through all the traits. I plan on sorting the good ones into categories still, but at least everything is there and you can generally find what you want. Link in my sig.

CockroachTeaParty

2016-02-26, 05:36 PM

Yo Nova, if you want to put my unchained summoner mini guide (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?479627-Unchained-Summoner-Mini-Guide) on the list, feel free.

Secret Wizard

2016-02-29, 12:23 PM

Here's my Unchained Monk guide. (https://docs.google.com/document/d/1vtxGT6RArwUBqSMTco-ekm9azMXWGox9tTD6Wp3rYTE/edit?usp=sharing)

Elfkin_King

2016-04-12, 12:13 AM

Someone needs to make a Vigilante Handbook :P

digiman619

2016-04-12, 02:40 AM

I'd like to request a completed soulknife guide. The one you guys have is incomplete, even before the new Psionics Augmented: Soulknife came out with a bunch new stuff.

Antariuk

2016-04-12, 04:59 AM

I found a Psion Guide that should be linked in the OP:
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1YVapC-VhuKDQ5vx4T2go8v4HdY6vX7U_FUA-IEn_yrM/edit

Can't say anything about it's quality, though.

F50

2016-06-17, 08:24 PM

If you please, I would like my recently completed kineticist guide (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?479198-A-Useful-Guide-for-Useful-Kineticists) to be added to the compendium.

Secret Wizard

2016-06-17, 09:23 PM

Not sure if this is being maintained, my unchained monk guide never got added :P

Novawurmson

2016-06-19, 02:00 AM

Adding the psion, unchained monk, and kineticist guides. Sorry for the delays!

Runemaximus

2017-08-06, 01:13 AM

The idea I'm having but not sure how to implement is like someone that is a spirit conduit of sorts, so access to multiple spirits. The idea I was having from a rp side is that the character won't be able to control which spirit comes through or maybe not even know he has these spirits coming out maybe black out losing time, like multiple personality disorder. The issue I am having is I'm not sure how to implement this. Maybe have multiple sheets prepes for the each spirit or has anyone done this before? Please help. Thank you in advance.

Mehangel

2017-08-06, 09:13 AM

Some more Spheres of Power Guides:

Eliciter Handbook (https://docs.google.com/document/d/1Hw9e1gpZNg26OSWNcL3DZj351mKivJDQ1DgwRcydFLo/edit?usp=sharing) - by A.J.Gibson
Hedgewitch Class Guide (https://sites.google.com/site/bloodymountainpath/writing-stuff/sop-class-guides/hedgewitch) - author unknown
Mageknight Class Guide (https://sites.google.com/site/bloodymountainpath/writing-stuff/sop-class-guides/mageknight) - author unknown
Soul Weaver Handbook (https://docs.google.com/document/d/1241NAiUYcXwHPUCpBnFFyVn67l7xePF3hDKp2blsbWQ/edit?usp=sharing) - by A.J.Gibson

grarrrg

2017-08-06, 12:47 PM

The idea I'm having but not sure how to implement is like someone that is a spirit conduit of sorts, so access to multiple spirits. The idea I was having from a rp side is tha...

You appear to have somehow posted a new thread as a reply to an existing thread.

Novawurmson

2017-11-19, 10:31 AM

noob

2017-11-19, 12:14 PM

I think someone should do an optimization guide for prepared sphere caster(the arcanist)

The Shadowmind

2017-11-19, 01:04 PM

Any chance we could get the Vitalist Guide updated? The Feats and Equipment section is still blank.

Nyaa

2017-12-10, 03:01 PM

Some more Spheres of Power Guides:

Hedgewitch Class Guide (https://sites.google.com/site/bloodymountainpath/writing-stuff/sop-class-guides/hedgewitch) - author unknown
Mageknight Class Guide (https://sites.google.com/site/bloodymountainpath/writing-stuff/sop-class-guides/mageknight) - author unknown

These two are down, anyone saved a copy?

Novawurmson

2022-02-15, 06:08 AM

It's been a long time since I've done anything with this, but /u/AngelZiefer's Kineticist Elements guide has had their link updated! Apparently, there was a GoogleDocs issue with that link.

Kurald Galain

2022-02-15, 06:16 AM

As the top post lists so many guides, it would really help if you list the date those guides were last updated. Like, if I want a barbarian guide, the most useful one is most likely the newest, since it covers the most material.

Oh, and minmaxboards.com no longer exists by that link.

(edit) most recent version of X To Y: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1qBRqImOQh6hwRVe73wJ3mUw44k4-3d_smIxMzeXcImg/edit#heading=h.d40eivnp4zp7
and the PF dip guide: https://forums.giantitp.com/showthread.php?230500-Pathfinder-Dipping-for-Fun-and-Profit-(mostly-Profit)

ahyangyi

2023-02-16, 07:45 AM

The other meta-guide (http://zenithgames.blogspot.se/2012/11/the-comprehensive-pathfinder-guides.html) might help filling the holes as well.