PDA

View Full Version : NPC Sharpshooter/Sniper



blackjack50
2021-10-19, 07:07 PM
Just trying to put together a sniper NPC. They can be musket/Kentucky rifle type or crossbow. Just looking for a long range shooter who will be tracking my players during the game. Anyone got any good places to look for that?

gloryblaze
2021-10-19, 07:09 PM
Roughly what CR do you want?

Xetheral
2021-10-20, 12:19 AM
If you're ok with NPCs built on a PC chassis, go with a Totem (Eagle) Barbarian 6/Chain Warlock (Any Patron) 3+. Emphasize Strength and Charisma. Take Agonizing Blast and Eldritch Spear as Invocations, and Spell Sniper as a feat.

This character has a 600' range on Eldritch Blast, fast movement and bonus action dashing for kiting, ignores cover less than total cover, has the eyesight to distinguish targets clearly at up to 1 mile, and has an invisible recon drone familiar for even longer-range situational awareness. Also, for all the character's long-distance focus, anyone who manages to engage it melee is in for a surprise, as it's still a powerful Barbarian.

Sigreid
2021-10-20, 12:33 AM
Ranger 2 with archery fighting style, Thief Rogue X. Sure Shot and skulker feats.

You'll be able to strike with sneak attack bonus damage. Extra +2 to hit. No penalty for range or less than total cover. Ability to bonus action re hide after a move to re-locate after a shot. Ability to track. Strike from 600 ft. away with a devastatingly lethal blow and disappear with nearly no chance of being able to be found. Take your time and set up your next shot. Observe the party and the effects of the strike to determine who is most vulnerable to the attack.

Note: This is really, really unfair to the party. Played to it's full potential they'll have virtually no ability to protect themselves or fight back.

GeoffWatson
2021-10-20, 01:12 AM
The Assassin in the MM might be a place to start.
Maybe give them a better ranged weapon.

Incorrect
2021-10-20, 01:45 AM
I recently used the Stone Giant Colossus Hunter (CR 8)
https://www.reddit.com/r/monsteraday/comments/6am1xl/day_54_stone_giant_colossus_hunter/

A big chunk of beef, with an equally big bow, designed for hunting.
It was and awesome encounter with my players desperately trying to get each other to cover, while tree trunks was being shot at them from across the field.
Just be aware that the damage over time might force failed death saves