AD&D - The Cavalier Class..

....Over Powered or Just Powerful Fun?

Today I am joined by DM Rivers as a special Guest as we explore the Cavalier class from Unearthed Arcana in AD&D, highlighting its unique traits, historical context, and gameplay challenges.

Rivers Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@RIVERSRPGChannel/

Highlights

• ⚔️ The Cavalier class offers a knightly experience akin to the Battle of Agincourt.

• 🐴 Cavaliers must adhere to a strict code of chivalry and honor.

• 🎲 No Prime requisite means no experience bonuses for high abilities.

• 🏇 Unique horsemanship abilities enhance gameplay and tactical options.

• 📜 Cavaliers face challenges in weapon specialization and class mechanics.

• 🛡️ Cavaliers can function at negative hit points, enhancing survivability.

• 👑 Evil Cavaliers exist but with limitations on their abilities and followers.

Key Insights

• ⚔️ Chivalry and Gameplay: The Cavalier class embodies the principles of chivalry, influencing player behavior and decisions in-game. This adherence can lead to role-playing opportunities and narrative depth.

• 🐴 Horsemanship Mechanics: Cavaliers excel in mounted combat, gaining significant bonuses while on horseback, which can shift the dynamics of encounters and encourage tactical positioning.

• 🎲 Experience Dynamics: The lack of a Prime requisite leads to unique experience gain mechanics, creating a distinctive approach to character development compared to other classes.

• 📜 Complex Class Structure: The Cavalier’s distinct mechanics, including weapon specialization and hit point calculations, may confuse players, requiring careful interpretation and house rules to balance gameplay.

• 🛡️ Survivability: The ability to operate at negative hit points makes Cavaliers resilient, allowing them to take risks in combat without immediate consequences, encouraging bold tactics.

• 👑 Morality and Alignment: The introduction of evil Cavaliers highlights moral complexity in gameplay, prompting players to consider the implications of alignment on character interactions and storylines.