I have never found the barbarian flavor appealing at all. But with Tasha's, I think I have found a way to make a barb that looks fun both RPwise and mechanically viable. This idea came to me when I was looking for good ways to build an echo knight multiclass
High Elf
Background: Noble
Levels 1-3 --> Echo Knight
Levels 4+ --> Ancestral Guardian Barbarian
Concept: This elf is not a classic barbarian at all. They channel the spirits of their ancestors via both Echo Knight and Ancestral path features. Instead of rage, they enter more of a shamanistic trance, summoning ancestors via martial arts. Almost like Bladedancing but through a completely different mechanism.
Mechanical notes
Would probably go rapier + shield, rapier + dagger, or dual rapiers. All for the cool factor. Nope, it is not optimized for damage, but feck it.
The basic sequence is to engage with the echo as much as possible to trigger the special features of Ancestral Path barbarian. With lots of HP and rage resistance
Sentinel is a key feat - works great for locking down and annoying bosses with the echo
Duelling or Two Weapon fighting style
Tasha's allows Elves with racial bonuses to STR and CON. That's what makes this build doable without being disadvantaged.
I think its one extremely interesting mash up. If you end up playing it for a while drop back in and let us know how it went. It sounds interesting. I like the idea of dual rapiers more than one and a shield, go all in! What level would you be starting at?
I have never found the barbarian flavor appealing at all. But with Tasha's, I think I have found a way to make a barb that looks fun both RPwise and mechanically viable. This idea came to me when I was looking for good ways to build an echo knight multiclass
Concept:
This elf is not a classic barbarian at all. They channel the spirits of their ancestors via both Echo Knight and Ancestral path features. Instead of rage, they enter more of a shamanistic trance, summoning ancestors via martial arts. Almost like Bladedancing but through a completely different mechanism.
Mechanical notes
What do you all think?
I think its one extremely interesting mash up. If you end up playing it for a while drop back in and let us know how it went. It sounds interesting. I like the idea of dual rapiers more than one and a shield, go all in! What level would you be starting at?
Not sure . . . Possibly around seven, if my current character in a ToA campaign dies.