Assassin and Sneak Attack
cbarchuk
Member Posts: 322
I'm currently doing a play through using an half-orc assassin and sneak attack(for the first time). In the beginning it wasn't too bad but I'm approaching chapter 6 and I must say I don't get it. Assassins get the best sneak attack progression but still only get 1 APR and rather poor THACO. It seems counter intuitive to me. Now the half-orcs high strength helps a bit but I'm finding it now to be somewhat of a chore. He's missing more often now and often the target his dead by my archer before my dude can even an get attack off much less get into position. I'm using spinesheath and the damage isn't too bad I guess. But I still am not sure about this character. Has anyone else tried an assassin but had success? Is a dual-wielding fighter/thief still the best sneak attacker or backstabber?
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Comments
However, I personally think that APR are a much better source of damage in the long run. I am not at all surprised your Archer is finishing things left and right, they are very strong characters in IWD.
As for dual-wield, that shouldn't actually do anything for BS or SA, as both only hit with one weapon once. Using single weapon style is probably best because there's a higher chance to crit. For sustained damage outside of SA/BS however, dual-wield is likely more damage - particularly with the +APR weapons from HoW.
Spinesheath only does 1d4+1 damage so why would you expect much output from it?
I went with long sword, katana, shortbow and single weapon style. That katana from dragons eye that has an increased threat range is fantastic.
Important to look for ways to buff THAC0 if you're struggling. Plenty of items like Ring of the Warrior, Gauntlets of Weapon Skill, Symbol of Corellon Lorethian etc. Buff spells like Emotion (courage/hope), recitation, prayer, chant etc.
For my assassin I dual classed at level 12 or 13 to Mage and eventually got to play with mislead backstabs.
Don't underestimate how good poison weapon is on a shortbow or darts as well.
Mind you, I did play this assassin in a group of 4 single class characters without any of the real powerhouse builds. The experience would be different if archers, sorcerers and multi/dual characters were stealing all the glory.
Switching between a ranged weapon and that nice katana was a really nice play style and quite effective.
That makes sense. I typically like going with single class characters most of the time though I do make some exceptions here and there. I appreciate the input. Oh, what race did you go with and did you have any issues with your THACO at all?