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An Optional Rule for Fighters

Groups who prefer fighters to have a little more mechanical complexity may allow characters to select one of the following combat talents at 1st, 5th, and 10th levels.

Cleave: When in melee with multiple foes, if the fighter strikes a killing blow, they may immediately make another attack against a second foe. The second attack roll is penalised at –2.

Defender: When the fighter is in melee with a foe, any attacks the foe makes at characters other than the fighter are penalised at –2.

Leader: Mercenaries or retainers under the fighter’s command and within 60’ gain a +1 bonus to morale/loyalty. All the fighter’s allies within 60’ gain a +1 bonus to saves against fear effects.

Main gauche: When fighting with a dagger in the off hand (in place of a shield), the fighter may choose each combat round to gain a +1 bonus to AC or to attack rolls.

Slayer: The fighter gains a +1 bonus to attack and damage rolls when in combat with foes of a specific type. The type of enemy must be chosen when this talent is selected. (Examples: undead, clerics, dragons, giants, etc.)

Weapon specialist: The fighter is an expert with a specific type of weapon chosen by the player (e.g. maces, two-handed swords, longbows, etc.). They gain a +1 bonus to attack and damage rolls using this type of weapon. (If using the optional weapon proficiency rules in Old-School Essentials Advanced Fantasy, this combat talent should be disallowed.)