What is a character class?

Class in NWN really defines what kind of role or job you want to play. Are you a fighter? A priest? A wizard? There are many classes to choose from. Let's look at the options.

Core classes

There are the 11 core classes from which all characters must choose to start before playing the game. The choice of class is key to defining the abilities that your character will have forever. Take your time and learn more about each class before deciding. While you can roleplay changes to your character, your class is static once chosen unless you add a prestige class or choose to multi-class. The core classes are:

• barbarian
• bard
• cleric
• druid
• fighter
• monk
• paladin
• ranger
• rogue
• sorcerer
• wizard

Each class possesses a range of abilities that make it substantially different from the other classes. These abilities are an integral part of a character's class, and mastering them will aid the player. Some classes have to be a certain alignment (described elsewhere). For example, a paladin must be of lawful good alignment. If the character's actions shift this alignment, then the character can no longer gain paladin levels. Similarly, a neutral good character cannot gain paladin class levels, since the character is not of the required alignment.

Prestige classes

The Enhanced Edition also includes an option for character development called prestige classes. Prestige classes are like regular classes, except that they have requirements that must be met before one can attain the class. These powerful classes grant characters unique new abilities unavailable to the base classes. Some classes may require a certain number of ranks or the ability to cast arcane or divine spells; there may even be race or alignment limitations. A prestige class cannot be chosen for a starting character, it must be earned through careful advancement; be aware of the prerequisites before planning which prestige class to take.We'll have a list of available prestige classes available on the forums.

Shadows of Undrentide introduced five prestige classes, specifically arcane archer, assassin, blackguard, harper scout, and shadowdancer. Hordes of the Underdark introduced an additional six prestige classes, specifically champion of Torm, dwarven defender, pale master, red dragon disciple, shifter, and weapon master. With patch 1.69 purple dragon knight became available. The enhanced edition includes all of these, but not all may be approved for use in Glorwing.

Epic classes

With the release of Hordes of the Underdark, a character can achieve epic class levels. Core classes become epic at class level 21, while prestige classes become epic at class level 11. Epic class levels cannot be obtained until character level 21. An epic class receives additional class-specific benefits (as described in each class' description) when the character levels up.

Multi-classing

Player characters begin with one base class but, as the character gains experience points, the player may choose to take a second or third class, which may be either base or prestige. Characters may have a maximum of three classes. Characters are expected to keep their base classes as close to the same level as possible, or be subject to a multiclass penalty to earned experience points. However, an exception to this rule is made for favored classes and prestige classes.