[Hellstrom]

So I've thought some more about blackguards based on Kolde's very helpful posts about them. That's good information and does make the BG a little more attractive, but I still feel like it leaves the class wanting a bit.

First, you'd have to build the PC so specifically to take the most advantage of the CHA bonuses and Divine Might/Shield that it seems like there's really only one optimal build. One of the things that's I like about the most of the base classes is how flexible most of them are in terms of being able to make a very effective character that's mechanically different than others.

Second, as Kolde said, the BG only really comes into it's own at level 15 and up. That might be fine for a PvP server where you're leveled up to 15th or 20th at the start, but on Thay I want to have a character that's effective at every level.

Finally, there's not much about building a BG in that way that feels... all that interesting, at least to me. While the character sounds like it could be pretty effective, I don't feel the real anti-paladin I'm-so-evil vibe from it.

I like what Thayan is talking about doing with poisons... that would be one step toward making both BGs and assassins attractive to play. It's too bad the Death Attack can't be customized. I'd like to know more about the Aura of Despair effect that Kolde mentioned. And beyond that maybe a few BG specific feats to help add some flavor and differentiate them from each other?