History Main / FantasyCharacterClasses

*** '''[[HollywoodCyborg The Cyborg]]''': Other Names: ''[[TabletopGame/{{Dragonmech}} Steamborg]], Augmented'': A class that takes the synergy of machine and user UpToEleven, the Cyborg is basically an UnskilledButStrong Engineer that trades in the Engineer's MacGyvering abilities for [[MechanicalMuscles straightforward stat-boosting augmentation]] and a smaller suite of mechanical doodads that can be CastFromHitPoints in a pinch. Typically rare, even in games willing to play around with {{Magitek}}.

*** '''[[OurWerebeastsAreDifferent The Beast]]''': Other Names: ''Beastman'', ''[[VideoGame/ShiningSeries Wolfling]]''. The Beast is either a non-human creature, or [[OneWingedAngel can turn into one]], and fights with their own body in place of weapons. As such, they are generally even less tied to equipment than Monks are. Beasts often lack versatility compared to other classes, but compensate with [[UnskilledButStrong high stats]], high movement speed, and/or [[GeoEffects terrain-based abilities]] (either gaining bonuses in certain terrains, moving through rough terrain without being slowed, or just being able to [[{{Flight}} fly over obstacles entirely]]). Sometimes combined with the Barbarian, Nature Magician, Dragon Knight or Monster Knight; alternately they may possess similar wilderness skills to the Ranger. If a Beast has access to {{Prestige Class}}es, they will usually represent a physical metamorphosis or simply getting larger and stronger.

*** '''[[TokenRobot The Mech]]''': Other Names: ''War Golem, Steam Knight, Robot''. The natural conclusion of the above Engineer, a character that is either wholly mechanical, or rides around in a MiniMecha, also typically of the SteamPunk or MagiTek variety. Compared to the typical Engineer, they tend to be tougher and slower, with powerful physical attacks and large, heavy firearms as well as the usual gadgetry, and can be seen as an equivalent to the Paladin or Spellsword in that regard.

** '''[[AlchemyIsMagic The Alchemist]]''': Other Names: ''Chemist'', ''Brewer'', ''Herbalist'', ''Merchant'', ''Biochemist'', ''Geneticist'' . An Alchemist combines items, magic or otherwise, to create [[ItemCaddy potions or bombs to use in battle]], often mixing them together ''during'' battle. Oddly enough, of all of the classes, they're the ones most likely to be good at throwing things, partly because bombs aren't going to deliver ''themselves'' to the Alchemist's enemies. They often are also capable of making supportive items, HealthPotion and food being most common.

* '''[[MasterOfIllusion The Illusionist]]''': Other Names: ''Mesmer''. A magic-user who casts illusions. Their primary role are to cause distraction and misdirection to enemies. They can also cast the clones of themselves and trick and misdirect the enemies to attack the clones instead. Their abilities are generally given to characters with Psychic powers.

*** '''The Dancer''': Other Names: ''Gypsy'', ''Wanderer'', ''Trouvere''. A rare variation of the Bard, who tend to get the same jokes made, but for dancing instead of music. They tend to do the same things as Bards, too, so perhaps they deserve it. A variant is '''The [[DanceBattler Whirling Dervish]]''', who looks to the casual observer like an ordinary dancer but is actually a spinning buzz-saw of slice-and-dice death; she'll give new meaning to Music/AramKhachaturian's Sabre Dance and have ''way'' too much fun doing it.

* '''The Bandit''': Other Names: ''Burglar, Thug, Brigand''. Close to the Thief, a Bandit is a Rogue whose stealth skills are either downplayed or non-existent. While they have all the standard Rogue abilities, they tend to use them in less subtle ways - instead of unlocking a door they'll kick it down, and instead of stealthily pickpocketing their enemies they'll simply walk up and grab things from them. Sometimes they also have the ability to intimidate their enemies or are good at destroying structures, as well as whole slew of other "gang" related abilities. Bandits are generally the MightyGlacier of Rogue classes, having stats more similar to a Fighter (though they may still be a FragileSpeedster compared to non-Rogues). While they display slightly more variation in weapons than standard Rogues, most Bandits still cannot equip heavy armor and are thus not as tough as Fighters.
* '''[[{{Pirate}} The Pirate]]''': Other Names: ''Corsair, Privateer, Swashbuckler''. Currently a rare variation of the Rogue, but gaining popularity thanks to MemeticMutation. The archetype for pirate isn't yet set that hard in stone, but in general, a Pirate will [[ChoiceOfTwoWeapons use a combination of weaponry instead of specializing]] - usually being able to switch freely [[TheMusketeer between pistols and swords]]. They may also receive bonuses for fighting in water terrain or on ships, or be the best class at swimming. May have some aspects of the Bandit, or the Bandit class may be folded into Pirate entirely. When this class specifically represents a pirate ''captain'' it sometimes overlaps with Warlord.
* '''[[ArmyScout The Scout]]''': Other Names: ''Spy, [[LeParkour Acrobat]], Operative''. Another rare variation on the Rogue, the Scout combines high movement rate with superior sensory and information-gathering skills, and often emphasizes stealth as well. Not guaranteed to be as good at combat as other Rogues; may overlap with the Ranger archetype if they are. May also favour ranged weapons more than other Rogues. Sometimes combined with the Thief and/or Assassin to give them more things to do.

* '''[[CloseRangeCombatant The Melee Ranger]]''': Other Names: ''Headhunter'', ''Predator'', ''Savage''. The Ranger that fights from melee range. Makes sense - the word 'Ranger' refers to someone who watches over territory, like a modern day Park Ranger, not from using ranged weapons. Will often be much more heavily associated with [[ClassicalHunter hunting]] and other animalistic thematics, with the association stemming between them and predatory creatures. Often uses a BladeOnAStick, BladeBelowTheShoulder, or AnAxeToGrind. Despite primarily being a melee character, will typically still possess a lot of ranged utility, either with a sidearm ranged weapon, or more commonly, by throwing their melee weapon, or by having a dedicated throwing weapon like a bola or chakram.

** '''TheGunslinger''': Other Names: ''Sharpshooter''. TheGunslinger is the wielder of firearms [[FantasyGunControl in a fantasy setting that has them]], when guns aren't common enough to be in the hands of regular people (or, if they are in the hands of regular people, the gunslinger tends to use them with much greater [[ImprobableAimingSkills effectiveness]] and [[GunFu panache]]). Usually functions as a ranged counterpart to the Samurai class, focusing entirely on their WeaponOfChoice and being [[LongRangeFighter weak or useless at close range]], but may also have some abilities from the Engineer [=and/or=] Alchemist (particularly if they build their own guns). Sometimes given a nerf or weakness in order to keep people playing the ''Ranger'' class (assuming it isn't ''merged'' with the Ranger class) - for instance guns might have lower damage or a slower rate of fire than bows, in exchange for longer range or the ability to [[AntiArmor pierce armor]], or alternatively Gunslingers may lack versatility but have higher attack power or evasion compared to regular Rangers. Gunslinger and Ranger are the only classes likely to have WildWest motifs, though even then, they don't always have them.

* '''[[EverythingsBetterWithSamurai The Samurai]]''': Generally restricted to Asian settings, but can appear outside them under more generic names like '''[[MasterSwordsman The Swordmaster]]'''. Other Names: ''Yojimbo'', ''Kensei''[[note]]introduced as "Kensai" in Dnd 3.5e intended to translate to "Sword Saint"[[/note]], ''Ronin'' (In some occasion), ''Weapon Master'', ''[[Franchise/FireEmblem Myrmidon]]''. Samurai wear less armor than regular Fighters, which leads them to have less defensive abilities. In general, they commonly have access to KiManipulation, [[GlassCannon higher damage]], and higher speed and mobility, along with abilities related to {{Counter Attack}}s, [[KillingIntent sensing hidden enemies]], or [[SpeedBlitz acting before their opponents can act]]. Some Samurai can wield [[BowAndSwordInAccord both swords and longbows]] (and occasionally [[BladeOnAStick spears]]), but the majority focus on [[KatanasAreJustBetter the sword]] to the [[WeaponOfChoice exclusion of all other weapons]]. After the Hero, Samurai are the class most likely to have unique weapons which other classes cannot use. Because Yojimbo are mercenaries, they may be literally able to [[Franchise/FinalFantasy spend money to deal more damage]].

* '''[[EverythingsBetterWithSamurai The Samurai]]''': Other Names: ''Yojimbo'', ''Kensei''[[note]]introduced as "Kensai" in Dnd 3.5e intended to translate to "Sword Saint"[[/note]], ''Ronin'' (In some occasion), ''Weapon Master'', ''[[Franchise/FireEmblem Myrmidon]]''. Samurai wear less armor than regular Fighters, which leads them to have less defensive abilities. In general, they commonly have access to KiManipulation, [[GlassCannon higher damage]], and higher speed and mobility, along with abilities related to {{Counter Attack}}s, [[KillingIntent sensing hidden enemies]], or [[SpeedBlitz acting before their opponents can act]]. Some Samurai can wield [[BowAndSwordInAccord both swords and longbows]] (and occasionally [[BladeOnAStick spears]]), but the majority focus on [[KatanasAreJustBetter the sword]] to the [[WeaponOfChoice exclusion of all other weapons]]. Generally restricted to Asian settings, but can appear outside them under more generic names like '''[[MasterSwordsman The Swordmaster]]'''. After the Hero, Samurai are the class most likely to have unique weapons which other classes cannot use. Because Yojimbo are mercenaries, they may be literally able to [[Franchise/FinalFantasy spend money to deal more damage]].

* '''[[ThePaladin The Paladin]]''': Other Names: ''Holy Knight'', ''Crusader'', ''Templar''[[note]]Whenever the Templar isn't its own separate class[[/note]], ''Inquisitor'', ''Guardian'' (In some games), ''Royal Guard''. The Paladin is a Fighter with the power of [[LightEmUp Light]] and [[WhiteMagic healing]] magic, as well as defensive buffs for their allies. Their devotion to their god or deity gives them various prayers, healing abilities and [[HolyHandGrenade holy-based]] spells to protect themselves and others. Naturally, they are a type of MagicKnight. They are also quite good at [[GoodHurtsEvil laying the smite down on undead, demons and other traditionally evil supernatural creatures]]. However, they may have behavioral limits: some rulesets impose varying penalties on taking actions that stray too far from LawfulGood, which can lead to weakening of abilities, loss of abilities or sometimes even being kicked out of the "Paladin" class entirely. If the setting doesn't have behavioral limitations they may have lower [[GlassCannon stamina]] or [[MightyGlacier speed]] to balance out their magic.

* '''[[EverythingsBetterWithSamurai The Samurai]]''': Other Names: ''Yojimbo'', ''Kensai'', ''Ronin'' (In some occasion), ''Weapon Master'', ''[[Franchise/FireEmblem Myrmidon]]''. Samurai wear less armor than regular Fighters, which leads them to have less defensive abilities. In general, they commonly have access to KiManipulation, [[GlassCannon higher damage]], and higher speed and mobility, along with abilities related to {{Counter Attack}}s, [[KillingIntent sensing hidden enemies]], or [[SpeedBlitz acting before their opponents can act]]. Some Samurai can wield [[BowAndSwordInAccord both swords and longbows]] (and occasionally [[BladeOnAStick spears]]), but the majority focus on [[KatanasAreJustBetter the sword]] to the [[WeaponOfChoice exclusion of all other weapons]]. Generally restricted to Asian settings, but can appear outside them under more generic names like '''[[MasterSwordsman The Swordmaster]]'''. After the Hero, Samurai are the class most likely to have unique weapons which other classes cannot use. Because Yojimbo are mercenaries, they may be literally able to [[Franchise/FinalFantasy spend money to deal more damage]].

* '''The Inquisitive''': The Inquisitive is an oft-overlooked variant of roguey types. They excel at rooting out hidden secrets and unraveling mysteries. They rely on a sharp eye for detail, but also on a finely honed ability to read the words and deeds of other creatures to determine their true intent. They excel at defeating creatures that hide among and prey upon ordinary folk, and their mastery of lore and sharp eye make them well-equipped to expose and end hidden evils. Undercover cops, private investigators and spies tend to fall into this category.

* '''[[KnightInShiningArmor The Knight]]''': Other Names: ''Cavalier'' (when the Cavalier isn't its own separate class), ''Guardian'', ''Sentinel''. The Knight is considered an upgrade to the basic Fighter. It may be able to wear bigger, heavier armor (including shields) and weaponry, [[MightyGlacier possibly sacrificing speed in favor of more power and defense]]. The Knight may also gain supportive abilities that help to keep their [[PlayerParty allies]] safe, relating to bravery and chivalry. For example; the ability to [[BarrierWarrior shield]] the group from enemy attacks, or otherwise [[TakingTheBullet take hits]] meant for their friends, a [[DrawAggro "taunt" command]] that forces foes to direct attacks towards them and away from allies, or the ability to make powerful {{Counter Attack}}s against enemies who ignore them. Knights may be able to employ MountedCombat, if there is no dedicated Cavalier class.
* '''[[TheBigGuy The Warrior]]''': Other Names: ''Brute, Titan, Vanguard''. A more offensively-oriented general upgrade to the basic Fighter, the Warrior trades the Knight's emphasis on defense and support for brute offensive power, favoring large, two-handed weapons that can smash straight through entire swathes of enemies and heavy armor that offsets their lack of a shield, as well as the immense strength required to use both. Warriors range from UnskilledButStrong brutes to StrongAndSkilled veterans, with the latter in particular emphasizing the class's slow, methodical, but devastatingly powerful attacks.

* '''The Skirmisher''': Other Names: ''Rebel'', ''Soldier'', ''Fallen Knight'', ''Outlaw'', ''Brigand''. A cross between a Knight and Ranger due to a mix of martial capability and survival instincts. Usually differentiated from other fighters as being against the law or higher authority, particularly in counterpart to the Knight who upholds/represents the law/higher authority. Sometimes appear under-equipped and/or using improvised or stolen equipment. They usually have an expert sense of guerilla warfare and survival tactics at their disposal compared to better equipped foes to balance the odds, comparable to that of a Warlord, but is not necessarily a leader.

See also CommonCharacterClasses, AnAdventurerIsYou, JobSystem, SquareRaceRoundClass, and ModernDaySciFiRPGClassEquivalents.

*** '''[[OurWerebeastsAreDifferent The Beast]]''': Other Names: ''Beastman, [[VideoGame/ShiningSeries Wolfling]]. The Beast is either a non-human creature, or [[OneWingedAngel can turn into one]], and fights with their own body in place of weapons. As such, they are generally even less tied to equipment than Monks are. Beasts often lack versatility compared to other classes, but compensate with [[UnskilledButStrong high stats]], high movement speed, and/or [[GeoEffects terrain-based abilities]] (either gaining bonuses in certain terrains, moving through rough terrain without being slowed, or just being able to [[{{Flight}} fly over obstacles entirely]]). Sometimes combined with the Barbarian, Nature Magician, Dragon Knight or Monster Knight; alternately they may possess similar wilderness skills to the Ranger. If a Beast has access to {{Prestige Class}}es, they will usually represent a physical metamorphosis or simply getting larger and stronger.

* '''TheHero''': Other Names: ''[[Franchise/FireEmblem Lord]]'', ''[[VideoGame/ShiningSeries Swordsman]] ''Protagonist''. This is the class generally used exclusively used by RPG protagonists, the protagonist of the game will be the only character able to become this class (usually) and may become it as a plot point. Although they are definitely a type of physical class, and sometimes referred to by one of the names of the classes above, they aren't a MightyGlacier or StoneWall; but much closer to being the JackOfAllStats. They may gain [[MagicKnight some magic]], and will almost certainly have unique skills. [[HeroesPreferSwords Almost always uses a sword]], and possibly a shield. Sometimes they will have exclusive access to powerful items like the InfinityPlusOneSword.

* '''TheHero''': Other Names: ''[[Franchise/FireEmblem Lord]]'', ''Protagonist''. This is the class generally used exclusively used by RPG protagonists, the protagonist of the game will be the only character able to become this class (usually) and may become it as a plot point. Although they are definitely a type of physical class, and sometimes referred to by one of the names of the classes above, they aren't a MightyGlacier or StoneWall; but much closer to being the JackOfAllStats. They may gain [[MagicKnight some magic]], and will almost certainly have unique skills. [[HeroesPreferSwords Almost always uses a sword]], and possibly a shield. Sometimes they will have exclusive access to powerful items like the InfinityPlusOneSword.

*** '''[[OurWerebeastsAreDifferent The Beast]]''': Other Names: ''Beastman, [[Franchise/ShiningSeries Wolfling]]. The Beast is either a non-human creature, or [[OneWingedAngel can turn into one]], and fights with their own body in place of weapons. As such, they are generally even less tied to equipment than Monks are. Beasts often lack versatility compared to other classes, but compensate with [[UnskilledButStrong high stats]], high movement speed, and/or [[GeoEffects terrain-based abilities]] (either gaining bonuses in certain terrains, moving through rough terrain without being slowed, or just being able to [[{{Flight}} fly over obstacles entirely]]). Sometimes combined with the Barbarian, Nature Magician, Dragon Knight or Monster Knight; alternately they may possess similar wilderness skills to the Ranger. If a Beast has access to {{Prestige Class}}es, they will usually represent a physical metamorphosis or simply getting larger and stronger.

* '''[[WitchSpecies The Inherent Gift Magician]]''': Other Names: ''Sorcerer''. This magic-user was born with abilities they don't need to study, and can use more readily than other Magicians. This is sometimes explained as being [[HalfHumanHybrid descended from a magical creature]], other times as being part of a WitchSpecies. They are often much less versatile than other magic-users, being limited to a smaller or much more tightly-themed pool of spells. Commonly, their powers manifest at adolescence.

* '''[[BlackKnight The Dark Knight]]''': Other Names: ''[[TabletopGame/DungeonsAndDragons Blackguard, Hexblade]]'', ''Antipaladin'', ''[[VideoGame/WarcraftIII Death]] [[VideoGame/WorldOfWarcraft Knight]]''. The Dark Knight class is the [[EvilCounterpart opposite number of the Paladin]], possessing the power of [[CastingAShadow Darkness]] and often [[{{Necromancer}} necromantic]] or [[BlackMagic dark-magic oriented abilities]] that deal large amounts of damage to enemies, although often [[CastFromHitPoints at the cost of their own HP.]] They may have abilities that lower their target's stats or inflict StatusEffects also. As the opposite of the Paladin, they may do more damage to [[ElementalRockPaperScissors light based enemies]] such as angels, fairies or other traditionally good/holy creatures even if LightIsNotGood or find such foes to be [[HolyBurnsEvil their biggest weakness]]. They generally do not suffer the behavioral limitations of Paladins, except possibly when they are the literal counterpart of Paladins and need to behave accordingly.

* '''[[TouchedByVorlons The Theurgist]]''': Other Names: ''Warlock''. The Magician makes a pact with a higher spirit (although not usually a god since those tend to be distinct in fantasy settings), who supplies him with magical powers. This is usually flavored with a DealWithTheDevil. While healing class pacts are seen as good, a Magician that makes a pact with an entity that gives them the power to [[BadPowersBadPeople harm or destroy]] is usually flavored in a darker light — and it may turn out to be with [[TheLegionsOfHell demons]] or {{Eldritch Abomination}}s. Thus, this type of magic is usually offensive (in the tactical sense) and nasty and deals heavy area damage and/or multitude of StatusAilment.

'''[[TheSneakyGuy The Rogue Classes]]''': Other Names: ''Thief'', ''Assassin'', ''Ninja''. Rogues are a diverse class that contains everything from dexterous thieves, to treasure-hunters, to assassins. Masters of stealth and infiltration, Rogues prefer to attack when their opponent is [[BackStab least aware]]. They are [[FragileSpeedster quick but fragile]], unable to take heavy damage, and instead rely on their speed to dodge attacks and [[HitAndRunTactics slip in and out of the shadows]] to catch their opponent off guard; [[TrapMaster setting traps]] and inflicting [[StatusEffects status effects]] on foes to give them the edge. Outside of battle Rogues usually have a wide range of helpful [[UtilityPartyMember utility abilities]] such as [[MasterOfUnlocking lockpicking]] to allow them to open locked doors and treasure chests without needing to find/buy keys or the ability to detect and disarm traps. Some can even [[VideoGameStealing steal items directly from enemies]] allowing the player to obtain items that otherwise might be unobtainable. Sometimes Rogues are lumped in with the Ranger class, but more commonly they are differentiated by specializing in melee - particularly with light blades and daggers or ranged attacks using throwing weapons such as knives and shuriken. Variations include:

* '''[[ProfessionalKiller The Assassin]]''': A more offensive Rogue, who sacrifices technical expertise for better stealth and killing abilities. Often have a variety of [[StatusAilment weakening and poisoning abilities]] and are able to cripple a foe to leave him open for allies or to let him die from DamageOverTime.

** '''[[BareFistedMonk The Monk]]''': Other Names: ''[[Franchise/FinalFantasy Black Belt]], Martial Artist, Pugilist, Fighter[[note]]If fighter isn't already taken as a class name[[/note]], [[TabletopGame/DungeonsAndDragons Mystic]]''. The Monk is partway between the Fighter and the Rogue... kind of. They are usually bare-fisted warriors who either eschew weapons entirely or use only martial artsy weapons like nunchucks and staves. Tend to have higher magical stats than other warriors due to their [[EnlightenmentSuperpowers refined bodies and souls]], but [[UselessSuperpowers not enough magic to make this very useful]]. They often have access to some sort of {{Ki Manipulation}}s and build up attacks, and sometimes have [[NoSell resistance]] to magic or certain StatusEffects. Self-sufficiency is what sets them apart from classes relying on fragile magics, higher powers or expensive items.

** '''[[AwesomenessByAnalysis The Scholar]]''': Other Names: ''Sage, Librarian, [[TabletopGame/DungeonsAndDragons Loremaster, Archivist]], [[TaughtByExperience Veteran]], Wizard''. Scholars are a [[SupportPartyMember support class]] with encyclopedic knowledge which allows them to study enemies and figure out their weaknesses. This ranges from simply [[EnemyScan reading the enemies' stats]] to actually ''giving'' them weaknesses or [[StatusBuffDispel stripping away their defences]]. Scholars also have [[JackOfAllTrades a wide range of other skills]], sometimes including unique [[ElementalRockPaperScissors elements]] or [[StatusEffects status conditions]] which no other class can access, but they're usually [[MasterOfNone weak]] or [[AwesomeButImpractical impractical]] outside of [[NotCompletelyUseless narrow situations]]. Strongly associated with books ([[SpellBook magical]] or otherwise), sometimes to the point of [[ThrowTheBookAtThem wielding them as weapons]]. Most Scholars are magic-users (often folded in with the Blue Mage, Bard, Sage, Alchemist or Inquisitor) but GeniusBruiser Fighters and BadassBookworm Rogues are not unheard of.

*** '''[[WarriorPoet The Skald]]''': A more "savage" version of the Bard, who charges into battle themselves so that they can write epic stories about [[WarIsGlorious how glorious it was]] afterwards. Tends to be less of a JackOfAllTrades than a standard Bard in favor of combat abilities similar to the Barbarian. They might also have buffs which turn their allies into {{Glass Cannon}}s, affect larger numbers of allies than a standard Bard, or allow allies to march or fight continuously without rest. Usually acts as a substitute for Bards in whatever culture Barbarians come from, but they can show up in just about any military setting as "morale officers" or similar.

* '''[[BlackKnight The Dark Knight]]''': Other Names: ''[[TabletopGame/DungeonsAndDragons Blackguard, Hexblade]]'', ''Antipaladin'', ''[[VideoGame/WarcraftIII Death]] [[VideoGame/WorldOfWarcraft Knight]]''. The Dark Knight class is the [[EvilCounterpart opposite number of the Paladin]], possessing the power of [[CastingAShadow Darkness]] and often [[{{Necromancer}} necromantic]] or [[BlackMagic dark-magic oriented abilities]] that deal large amounts of damage to enemies, although often [[CastFromHitPoints at the cost of their own HP.]] They may have abilities that lower their target's stats or inflict StandardStatusEffects also. As the opposite of the Paladin, they may do more damage to [[ElementalRockPaperScissors light based enemies]] such as angels, fairies or other traditionally good/holy creatures even if LightIsNotGood or find such foes to be [[HolyBurnsEvil their biggest weakness]]. They generally do not suffer the behavioral limitations of Paladins, except possibly when they are the literal counterpart of Paladins and need to behave accordingly.

'''[[TheSneakyGuy The Rogue Classes]]''': Other Names: ''Thief'', ''Assassin'', ''Ninja''. Rogues are a diverse class that contains everything from dexterous thieves, to treasure-hunters, to assassins. Masters of stealth and infiltration, Rogues prefer to attack when their opponent is [[BackStab least aware]]. They are [[FragileSpeedster quick but fragile]], unable to take heavy damage, and instead rely on their speed to dodge attacks and [[HitAndRunTactics slip in and out of the shadows]] to catch their opponent off guard; [[TrapMaster setting traps]] and inflicting [[StandardStatusEffects status effects]] on foes to give them the edge. Outside of battle Rogues usually have a wide range of helpful [[UtilityPartyMember utility abilities]] such as [[MasterOfUnlocking lockpicking]] to allow them to open locked doors and treasure chests without needing to find/buy keys or the ability to detect and disarm traps. Some can even [[VideoGameStealing steal items directly from enemies]] allowing the player to obtain items that otherwise might be unobtainable. Sometimes Rogues are lumped in with the Ranger class, but more commonly they are differentiated by specializing in melee - particularly with light blades and daggers or ranged attacks using throwing weapons such as knives and shuriken. Variations include:

** '''[[BareFistedMonk The Monk]]''': Other Names: ''[[Franchise/FinalFantasy Black Belt]], Martial Artist, Pugilist, Fighter[[note]]If fighter isn't already taken as a class name[[/note]], [[TabletopGame/DungeonsAndDragons Mystic]]''. The Monk is partway between the Fighter and the Rogue... kind of. They are usually bare-fisted warriors who either eschew weapons entirely or use only martial artsy weapons like nunchucks and staves. Tend to have higher magical stats than other warriors due to their [[EnlightenmentSuperpowers refined bodies and souls]], but [[UselessSuperpowers not enough magic to make this very useful]]. They often have access to some sort of {{Ki Manipulation}}s and build up attacks, and sometimes have [[NoSell resistance]] to magic or certain StandardStatusEffects. Self-sufficiency is what sets them apart from classes relying on fragile magics, higher powers or expensive items.

** '''[[AwesomenessByAnalysis The Scholar]]''': Other Names: ''Sage, Librarian, [[TabletopGame/DungeonsAndDragons Loremaster, Archivist]], [[TaughtByExperience Veteran]], Wizard''. Scholars are a [[SupportPartyMember support class]] with encyclopedic knowledge which allows them to study enemies and figure out their weaknesses. This ranges from simply [[EnemyScan reading the enemies' stats]] to actually ''giving'' them weaknesses or [[StatusBuffDispel stripping away their defences]]. Scholars also have [[JackOfAllTrades a wide range of other skills]], sometimes including unique [[ElementalRockPaperScissors elements]] or [[StandardStatusEffects status conditions]] which no other class can access, but they're usually [[MasterOfNone weak]] or [[AwesomeButImpractical impractical]] outside of [[NotCompletelyUseless narrow situations]]. Strongly associated with books ([[SpellBook magical]] or otherwise), sometimes to the point of [[ThrowTheBookAtThem wielding them as weapons]]. Most Scholars are magic-users (often folded in with the Blue Mage, Bard, Sage, Alchemist or Inquisitor) but GeniusBruiser Fighters and BadassBookworm Rogues are not unheard of.

*** '''[[OurWerebeastsAreDifferent The Beast]]''': Other Names: ''Beastman, [[Franchise/ShiningSeries Wolfling]], [[Franchise/FireEmblem Laguz, Manakete]]''. The Beast is either a non-human creature, or [[OneWingedAngel can turn into one]], and fights with their own body in place of weapons. As such, they are generally even less tied to equipment than Monks are. Beasts often lack versatility compared to other classes, but compensate with [[UnskilledButStrong high stats]], high movement speed, and/or [[GeoEffects terrain-based abilities]] (either gaining bonuses in certain terrains, moving through rough terrain without being slowed, or just being able to [[{{Flight}} fly over obstacles entirely]]). Sometimes combined with the Barbarian, Nature Magician, Dragon Knight or Monster Knight; alternately they may possess similar wilderness skills to the Ranger. If a Beast has access to {{Prestige Class}}es, they will usually represent a physical metamorphosis or simply getting larger and stronger.

* '''[[MasterOfIllusion The Illusionist]]''': Other Names: ''Mesmer''. A magic-user who casts illusions. Their primary role are to cause distraction and misdirection to enemies. They can also cast the clones of themselves and trick and misdirect the enemies to attack the clones instead. Their abilities are generally given to characters with Psychic powers and Bards.

* '''[[TheRedMage The Generalist]]''': A Magician who does not specialize in one school or tradition and studies the magic of various types. They tend to be rare, and depending on which limitations they have, [[JackOfAllTrades may be very powerful thanks to their versatility]] or [[MasterOfNone very weak thanks to their lack of focus]]. In any case, they usually aren't able to use the more complex spells their specialized brethren use, or at least not nearly as often. Of all the kinds of Magician, they tend to be the most open minded and least prone to think there are UnEqualRites.

** '''[[TheEngineer The Engineer]]''': Other Names: ''Tinkerer, [[TabletopGame/{{Eberron}} Artificer]], Machinist, Gadgeteer, Alchemist'' [[note]]the latter when they aren't a separate class, see below[[/note]]. This is a character class that relies on technology, often of the SteamPunk or {{Magitek}} variety, to achieve ranged controlling effects similar to a wizard. They most likely have guns and bombs as primary weapons, and employ stationary and/or mobile machines on the battlefield. May be seen as "too sci-fi".

** '''[[AlchemyIsMagic The Alchemist]]''': Other Names: ''Chemist, Brewer, Herbalist, Merchant''. An Alchemist combines items, magic or otherwise, to create [[ItemCaddy potions or bombs to use in battle]], often mixing them together ''during'' battle. Oddly enough, of all of the classes, they're the ones most likely to be good at throwing things, partly because bombs aren't going to deliver ''themselves'' to the Alchemist's enemies. They often are also capable of making supportive items, HealthPotion and food being most common.
** '''TheGunslinger''': TheGunslinger is the wielder of firearms [[FantasyGunControl in a fantasy setting that has them]], when guns aren't common enough to be in the hands of regular people (or, if they are in the hands of regular people, the gunslinger tends to use them with much greater [[ImprobableAimingSkills effectiveness]] and [[GunFu panache]]). Usually functions as a ranged counterpart to the Samurai class, focusing entirely on their WeaponOfChoice and being [[LongRangeFighter weak or useless at close range]], but may also have some abilities from the Engineer [=and/or=] Alchemist (particularly if they build their own guns). Sometimes given a nerf or weakness in order to keep people playing the ''Ranger'' class (assuming it isn't ''merged'' with the Ranger class) - for instance guns might have lower damage or a slower rate of fire than bows, in exchange for longer range or the ability to [[AntiArmor pierce armor]], or alternatively Gunslingers may lack versatility but have higher attack power or evasion compared to regular Rangers. Gunslinger and Ranger are the only classes likely to have WildWest motifs, though even then, they don't always have them.

** '''[[PsychicPowers The Psychic]]''': Other Names: ''Psion, Mentalist, Esper''. Psychics generally employ a combination of telepathy and psychokinesis to attack the opponent's mind directly, or to deal damage to his body. Distinctions between psychic powers and magic may be difficult to make. In addition, the list of PsychicPowers potentially available is often seen as too long and generalized. Was generally restricted to science fiction settings before the popularity of ComicBook/XMen prompted its controversial inclusion in ''TabletopGame/DungeonsAndDragons'' decades ago, and has appeared only sporadically in other fantasy settings since then.
** '''TheBeastmaster''': Other Names: ''Pet Master, [[MarionetteMaster Puppet Master]], [[Franchise/FinalFantasy Trainer]]''. Pet Masters specialize in controlling a powerful "pet" to fight by their side. The pet can be anything from a tamed animal to a summoned [[ElementalEmbodiment elemental]] to a constructed {{Golem}}, but usually it serves as a front-line melee combatant while the master hangs back to support it with healing, buffing and long-range attacks. In extreme cases the master does not take part in combat at all. If the pet is an animal then this class is often folded into Ranger or Nature Magician, and comes with [[FluffyTamer the ability to control animals in general]]. If folded into Summoner then the character might have access to multiple pets, but only be able to use one at a time. Sometimes a Pet Master can ''ride'' their pet and function somewhat like a Cavalier, except that the pet does most of the fighting. An MMORPG Pet Master will ''always'' have some way of summoning their pet to their position.

*** '''The Dancer''': A rare variation of the Bard, who tend to get the same jokes made, but for dancing instead of music. They tend to do the same things as Bards, too, so perhaps they deserve it. A variant is '''The [[DanceBattler Whirling Dervish]]''', who looks to the casual observer like an ordinary dancer but is actually a spinning buzz-saw of slice-and-dice death; she'll give new meaning to Music/AramKhachaturian's Sabre Dance and have ''way'' too much fun doing it.

** '''[[WanderingMinstrel The Bard]]''': The Bard is a class specializing in [[MagicMusic music]]. Perhaps understandably, they're [[QuirkyBard butt of a lot of jokes in fantasy settings]], however, depending on the game, they may be useful. Bardic songs are generally useful for buffing allies, weakening enemies, status effects, and occasionally damage (via BrownNote or MakeMeWannaShout). Sometimes they act as the JackOfAllTrades. Of all the classes, Bards are the most likely to be [[TheSocialExpert good at diplomacy]] with [[NonPlayerCharacter NPCs]].

* '''[[TrapMaster The Trapper Ranger]]''': The Trapper is a character who can lay down various traps in an area that the enemy can walk into, making them vulnerable to ambushes or follow-up attacks. Often combined with the Sniper or Beast Master above.
* '''[[MageMarksman The Magical Ranger]]''': A version of the Ranger who can use enchanted or {{Trick Arrow}}s to take advantage of ElementalRockPaperScissors, or slow down and disable enemies with "net arrows" or "freezing arrows" and the like. Also tend to be capable of (nature) magic.