Tempest Trapmonkey for new players (28-pt human & dwarf)

[unbongwah]

This is a build which I keep reposting for newbies, so I figure it makes sense to just post it in its own thread for future reference. It's just a variant on tihocan's Tempest, but it lays everything out.

Goals: good TWF DPS, max ranks in trap skills & UMD, decent HPs, Tempest III, no tomes or premium classes req'd.
Cons: low Will saves, not a high-AC build, dump-stating WIS means you need to find level-appropriate +WIS item to cast spells.

First up is the human version:

Character Plan by DDO Character Planner Version 3.9.1
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Tempest Trapmonkey
Level 20 True Neutral Human Female
(1 Fighter \ 1 Rogue \ 18 Ranger) 
Hit Points: 302
Spell Points: 230 
BAB: 19\19\24\29\29
Fortitude: 16
Reflex: 16
Will: 5

                  Starting          Feat/Enhancement
Abilities        Base Stats          Modified Stats
(28 Point)       (Level 1)             (Level 20)
Strength             16                    22
Dexterity            14                    16
Constitution         15                    16
Intelligence         12                    12
Wisdom                8                     8
Charisma              8                     8

                  Starting          Feat/Enhancement
                 Base Skills         Modified Skills
Skills           (Level 1)            (Level 20)
Balance               6                     7
Bluff                -1                    -1
Concentration         2                     3
Diplomacy            -1                    -1
Disable Device        5                    24
Haggle                3                     3
Heal                 -1                    -1
Hide                  2                     3
Intimidate           -1                    -1
Jump                  7                    10
Listen                3                     3
Move Silently         2                     3
Open Lock             6                    24
Perform              n/a                   n/a
Repair                1                     1
Search                5                    24
Spot                  3                    22
Swim                  3                     6
Tumble                6                     7
Use Magic Device      3                    22

Level 1 (Rogue)
Skill: Balance (+4)
Skill: Disable Device (+4)
Skill: Haggle (+4)
Skill: Jump (+4)
Skill: Listen (+4)
Skill: Open Lock (+4)
Skill: Search (+4)
Skill: Spot (+4)
Skill: Tumble (+4)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+4)
Feat: (Selected) Dodge
Feat: (Human Bonus) Toughness


Level 2 (Ranger)
Skill: Disable Device (+1)
Skill: Open Lock (+1)
Skill: Search (+1)
Skill: Spot (+1)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+1)
Feat: (Favored Enemy) Favored Enemy: Undead


Level 3 (Ranger)
Skill: Disable Device (+1)
Skill: Open Lock (+1)
Skill: Search (+1)
Skill: Spot (+1)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+1)
Feat: (Selected) Oversized Two Weapon Fighting


Level 4 (Fighter)
Ability Raise: STR
Skill: Disable Device (+1)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+1)
Feat: (Fighter Bonus) Mobility


Level 5 (Ranger)
Skill: Disable Device (+1)
Skill: Open Lock (+1)
Skill: Search (+2)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+1)


Level 6 (Ranger)
Skill: Disable Device (+1)
Skill: Search (+1)
Skill: Spot (+3)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+1)
Feat: (Selected) Spring Attack


Level 7 (Ranger)
Skill: Disable Device (+1)
Skill: Open Lock (+1)
Skill: Search (+1)
Skill: Spot (+1)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+1)
Feat: (Favored Enemy) Favored Enemy: Giant


Level 8 (Ranger)
Ability Raise: STR
Skill: Disable Device (+1)
Skill: Open Lock (+1)
Skill: Search (+1)
Skill: Spot (+1)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+1)
Enhancement: Rogue Haste Boost I
Enhancement: Ranger Sprint Boost I
Enhancement: Human Adaptability Constitution I
Enhancement: Human Improved Recovery I
Enhancement: Human Improved Recovery II
Enhancement: Human Versatility I
Enhancement: Human Versatility II
Enhancement: Racial Toughness I
Enhancement: Racial Toughness II
Enhancement: Ranger Favored Attack I
Enhancement: Ranger Favored Damage I
Enhancement: Ranger Favored Damage II
Enhancement: Ranger Tempest I
Enhancement: Rogue Sneak Attack Training I
Enhancement: Ranger Dexterity I
Enhancement: Fighter Toughness I
Enhancement: Rogue Improved Trap Sense I


Level 9 (Ranger)
Skill: Disable Device (+1)
Skill: Open Lock (+1)
Skill: Search (+1)
Skill: Spot (+1)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+1)
Feat: (Selected) Improved Critical: Slashing Weapons


Level 10 (Ranger)
Skill: Disable Device (+1)
Skill: Open Lock (+1)
Skill: Search (+1)
Skill: Spot (+1)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+1)


Level 11 (Ranger)
Skill: Disable Device (+1)
Skill: Open Lock (+1)
Skill: Search (+1)
Skill: Spot (+1)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+1)


Level 12 (Ranger)
Ability Raise: STR
Skill: Disable Device (+1)
Skill: Open Lock (+1)
Skill: Search (+1)
Skill: Spot (+1)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+1)
Feat: (Selected) Exotic Weapon Proficiency: Khopesh
Feat: (Favored Enemy) Favored Enemy: Evil Outsider


Level 13 (Ranger)
Skill: Disable Device (+1)
Skill: Open Lock (+1)
Skill: Search (+1)
Skill: Spot (+1)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+1)


Level 14 (Ranger)
Skill: Disable Device (+1)
Skill: Open Lock (+1)
Skill: Search (+1)
Skill: Spot (+1)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+1)
Enhancement: Human Greater Adaptability Strength I
Enhancement: Human Improved Recovery III
Enhancement: Racial Toughness III
Enhancement: Ranger Favored Attack II
Enhancement: Ranger Favored Damage III
Enhancement: Ranger Tempest II
Enhancement: Ranger Dexterity II


Level 15 (Ranger)
Skill: Disable Device (+1)
Skill: Open Lock (+1)
Skill: Search (+1)
Skill: Spot (+1)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+1)
Feat: (Selected) Power Attack


Level 16 (Ranger)
Ability Raise: STR
Skill: Disable Device (+1)
Skill: Open Lock (+1)
Skill: Search (+1)
Skill: Spot (+1)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+1)


Level 17 (Ranger)
Skill: Disable Device (+1)
Skill: Open Lock (+1)
Skill: Search (+1)
Skill: Spot (+1)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+1)
Feat: (Favored Enemy) Favored Enemy: Elemental


Level 18 (Ranger)
Skill: Disable Device (+1)
Skill: Open Lock (+1)
Skill: Search (+1)
Skill: Spot (+1)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+1)
Feat: (Selected) Maximize Spell


Level 19 (Ranger)
Skill: Disable Device (+1)
Skill: Open Lock (+1)
Skill: Search (+1)
Skill: Spot (+1)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+1)


Level 20 (Ranger)
Ability Raise: STR
Skill: Disable Device (+1)
Skill: Open Lock (+1)
Skill: Search (+1)
Skill: Spot (+1)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+1)
Enhancement: Human Versatility III
Enhancement: Human Versatility IV
Enhancement: Ranger Item Defense I
Enhancement: Ranger Favored Damage IV
Enhancement: Ranger Tempest III
Enhancement: Ranger Devotion I
Enhancement: Ranger Devotion II
Enhancement: Ranger Devotion III
Enhancement: Ranger Devotion IV

Why take Oversized TWF before khopesh? I figure new players are more likely to need to "live off the land," using whatever weapons they can scrounge from quest rewards etc. Khopeshes are relatively rare drops and good ones are hella expensive on the Auction House - way more than a newbie can afford at the beginning. Also, you spend a lot of time during the first 10-12 levels fighting undead (e.g., Catacombs, Delera's, Necropolis, House J quests, etc.), who are immune to crits, thus negating khopeshes' big advantage over other weapons. And since OTWF is a Tempest III pre-req, it's not like it's a wasted feat. By level 12, they can either save their plat for khopeshes off the AH or grind Demon Sands for Dynastic Falcatas or Chaosblades (lowest-lvl static khopesh rewards AFAIK); and later of course they'll craft green steel khopeshes.

Final feat is up to debate. I went with Maximize so she can toss off the occasional emergency heal, but other options include Extend, Empower Heal (saves mana but less potent heals), Improved Crit Ranged (if you like softening targets up with longbows), or Skill Focus UMD (if you need the boost for no-fail Heal scrolls).

Stealth variant: start CON 14 INT 14. Put half-ranks into Open Lock and remaining points into Hide & Move Silently. Swap one of the less important enhs for Rogue Faster Sneaking I.

EDIT: added 5/19/11 - based on Aylin's suggestion of taking a barbarian splash instead of fighter, I came up with this variant I've nicknamed Zerger's Delight:

Character Plan by DDO Character Planner Version 3.9.1
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Level 20 True Neutral Human Female
(1 Barbarian \ 1 Rogue \ 18 Ranger) 
Hit Points: 304
Spell Points: 230 
BAB: 19\19\24\29\29
Fortitude: 16
Reflex: 16
Will: 5

                  Starting          Feat/Enhancement
Abilities        Base Stats          Modified Stats
(28 Point)       (Level 1)             (Level 20)
Strength             16                    22
Dexterity            14                    16
Constitution         15                    16
Intelligence         12                    12
Wisdom                8                     8
Charisma              8                     8

                  Starting          Feat/Enhancement
                 Base Skills         Modified Skills
Skills           (Level 1)            (Level 20)
Balance               6                     9
Bluff                -1                    -1
Concentration         2                     3
Diplomacy            -1                    -1
Disable Device        5                    24
Haggle                3                     3
Heal                 -1                    -1
Hide                  2                     3
Intimidate           -1                    -1
Jump                  7                    10
Listen                3                     3
Move Silently         2                     3
Open Lock             6                    25
Perform              n/a                   n/a
Repair                1                     1
Search                5                    24
Spot                  3                    22
Swim                  3                     6
Tumble                6                     7
Use Magic Device      3                    22

Level 1 (Rogue)
Skill: Balance (+4)
Skill: Disable Device (+4)
Skill: Haggle (+4)
Skill: Jump (+4)
Skill: Listen (+4)
Skill: Open Lock (+4)
Skill: Search (+4)
Skill: Spot (+4)
Skill: Tumble (+4)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+4)
Feat: (Selected) Dodge
Feat: (Human Bonus) Mobility


Level 2 (Barbarian)
Skill: Disable Device (+1)
Skill: Open Lock (+1)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+1)


Level 3 (Ranger)
Skill: Disable Device (+1)
Skill: Search (+2)
Skill: Spot (+2)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+1)
Feat: (Favored Enemy) Favored Enemy: Undead
Feat: (Selected) Least Dragonmark of Passage (swap for khopesh proficiency later)


Level 4 (Ranger)
Ability Raise: STR
Skill: Disable Device (+1)
Skill: Open Lock (+1)
Skill: Search (+1)
Skill: Spot (+1)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+1)


Level 5 (Ranger)
Skill: Disable Device (+1)
Skill: Open Lock (+1)
Skill: Search (+1)
Skill: Spot (+1)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+1)


Level 6 (Ranger)
Skill: Disable Device (+1)
Skill: Open Lock (+1)
Skill: Search (+1)
Skill: Spot (+1)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+1)
Feat: (Selected) Spring Attack


Level 7 (Ranger)
Skill: Disable Device (+1)
Skill: Open Lock (+1)
Skill: Search (+1)
Skill: Spot (+1)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+1)
Feat: (Favored Enemy) Favored Enemy: Giant


Level 8 (Ranger)
Ability Raise: STR
Skill: Disable Device (+1)
Skill: Open Lock (+1)
Skill: Search (+1)
Skill: Spot (+1)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+1)


Level 9 (Ranger)
Skill: Disable Device (+1)
Skill: Open Lock (+1)
Skill: Search (+1)
Skill: Spot (+1)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+1)
Feat: (Selected) Improved Critical: Slashing Weapons


Level 10 (Ranger)
Skill: Disable Device (+1)
Skill: Open Lock (+1)
Skill: Search (+1)
Skill: Spot (+1)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+1)


Level 11 (Ranger)
Skill: Disable Device (+1)
Skill: Open Lock (+1)
Skill: Search (+1)
Skill: Spot (+1)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+1)


Level 12 (Ranger)
Ability Raise: STR
Skill: Disable Device (+1)
Skill: Open Lock (+1)
Skill: Search (+1)
Skill: Spot (+1)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+1)
Feat: (Favored Enemy) Favored Enemy: Evil Outsider
Feat: (Selected) Toughness


Level 13 (Ranger)
Skill: Disable Device (+1)
Skill: Open Lock (+1)
Skill: Search (+1)
Skill: Spot (+1)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+1)


Level 14 (Ranger)
Skill: Disable Device (+1)
Skill: Open Lock (+1)
Skill: Search (+1)
Skill: Spot (+1)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+1)


Level 15 (Ranger)
Skill: Disable Device (+1)
Skill: Open Lock (+1)
Skill: Search (+1)
Skill: Spot (+1)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+1)
Feat: (Selected) Power Attack


Level 16 (Ranger)
Ability Raise: STR
Skill: Disable Device (+1)
Skill: Open Lock (+1)
Skill: Search (+1)
Skill: Spot (+1)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+1)


Level 17 (Ranger)
Skill: Disable Device (+1)
Skill: Open Lock (+1)
Skill: Search (+1)
Skill: Spot (+1)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+1)
Feat: (Favored Enemy) Favored Enemy: Construct


Level 18 (Ranger)
Skill: Disable Device (+1)
Skill: Open Lock (+1)
Skill: Search (+1)
Skill: Spot (+1)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+1)
Feat: (Selected) Oversized Two Weapon Fighting


Level 19 (Ranger)
Skill: Disable Device (+1)
Skill: Open Lock (+1)
Skill: Search (+1)
Skill: Spot (+1)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+1)


Level 20 (Ranger)
Ability Raise: STR
Skill: Disable Device (+1)
Skill: Open Lock (+1)
Skill: Search (+1)
Skill: Spot (+1)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+1)
Enhancement: Rogue Haste Boost I
Enhancement: Ranger Sprint Boost I
Enhancement: Barbarian Power Attack I
Enhancement: Human Adaptability Constitution I
Enhancement: Human Greater Adaptability Strength I
Enhancement: Human Improved Recovery I
Enhancement: Human Improved Recovery II
Enhancement: Human Improved Recovery III
Enhancement: Human Versatility I
Enhancement: Human Versatility II
Enhancement: Human Versatility III
Enhancement: Human Versatility IV
Enhancement: Racial Toughness I
Enhancement: Racial Toughness II
Enhancement: Racial Toughness III
Enhancement: Ranger Favored Attack I
Enhancement: Ranger Favored Attack II
Enhancement: Ranger Favored Damage I
Enhancement: Ranger Favored Damage II
Enhancement: Ranger Favored Damage III
Enhancement: Ranger Favored Damage IV
Enhancement: Ranger Tempest I
Enhancement: Ranger Tempest II
Enhancement: Ranger Tempest III
Enhancement: Rogue Sneak Attack Training I
Enhancement: Ranger Devotion I
Enhancement: Ranger Devotion II
Enhancement: Ranger Devotion III
Enhancement: Ranger Devotion IV
Enhancement: Ranger Dexterity I
Enhancement: Ranger Dexterity II
Enhancement: Barbarian Toughness I
Enhancement: Rogue Improved Trap Sense I

The idea is +10% barb run speed + 25% Expeditious Retreat (Least Passage DM) + rgr Sprint Boost = ZOOOOM! at low levels. Once you can cast Longstrider (tho it's only +15% so you won't be as fast), have a high enough Striding item, and/or good khopeshes gathered, you swap the DM out for khopesh instead. Note: you have to complete the Hall of the Mark quest once per server in order to take the Dragonmark feats; so if this is your very first char on a particular server, I would recommend holding off on taking lvl 3 until you finish this quest - so get off Korthos ASAP!

The main drawback to this approach is it delays Toughness until lvl 12 and OTWF to lvl 18. So you could skip the DM entirely and take Toughness at lvl 3 instead, pushing khopesh back to lvl 12, if extra HPs are more important to you than extra run speed at lower levels.

EDIT: added 3/29/12 updated 2/2/13

Until recently, there was very little incentive to take rogue 2 on this build, since rangers get Evasion at lvl 9. But with the addition of Wand & Scroll Mastery enhs to rogue, rogue 2 lets you add W&S Mastery I, which adds +30% to your Cure wands & Heal scrolls. Along with human Improved Recovery, that's a pretty big boost to this build's self-sufficiency. The downside is losing the extra HPs and extra feat from ftr (in this case losing Maximize) or +10% run speed & +1 PA enh from barb. I've also rejiggered the skill pts a bit to get max Concentration and some more pts of Balance, at the expense of max Open Lock.

(2/2/13) With the changes to the AC system in U14, I've put less emphasis on to-hit. I've also swapped OTWF for Lightning Reflexes; if you take at least a +1 DEX tome before lvl 18, you can take Two Weapon Defense instead for +5 PRR.

The addition of epic levels adds two more feats to round out this build. This khopesh-based version plans to take Quicken & Maximize at lvls 21 & 24 to boost its self-healing potential.

Character Plan by DDO Character Planner Version 03.14.02
DDO Character Planner Home Page

Tempest Trapmonkey
Level 20 True Neutral Human Female
(2 Rogue \ 18 Ranger) 
Hit Points: 288
Spell Points: 230 
BAB: 19\19\24\29\29
Fortitude: 14
Reflex: 19
Will: 5

                  Starting          Feat/Enhancement
Abilities        Base Stats          Modified Stats
(28 Point)       (Level 1)             (Level 20)
Strength             16                    22
Dexterity            14                    16
Constitution         15                    16
Intelligence         12                    12
Wisdom                8                     8
Charisma              8                     8

                  Starting          Feat/Enhancement
                 Base Skills         Modified Skills
Skills           (Level 1)            (Level 20)
Balance               6                    14
Bluff                -1                    -1
Concentration         4                    26
Diplomacy            -1                    -1
Disable Device        5                    24
Haggle                3                     3
Heal                 -1                    -1
Hide                  2                     3
Intimidate           -1                    -1
Jump                  7                    11
Listen               -1                    -1
Move Silently         2                     3
Open Lock             6                    14
Perform              n/a                   n/a
Repair                1                     1
Search                5                    24
Spot                  3                    22
Swim                  3                     6
Tumble                6                     7
Use Magic Device      3                    22

Level 1 (Rogue)
Skill: Balance (+4)
Skill: Concentration (+2)
Skill: Disable Device (+4)
Skill: Haggle (+4)
Skill: Jump (+4)
Skill: Open Lock (+4)
Skill: Search (+4)
Skill: Spot (+4)
Skill: Tumble (+4)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+4)
Feat: (Selected) Dodge
Feat: (Human Bonus) Mobility


Level 2 (Ranger)
Skill: Concentration (+3)
Skill: Disable Device (+1)
Skill: Search (+1)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+1)
Feat: (Favored Enemy) Favored Enemy: Undead


Level 3 (Ranger)
Skill: Concentration (+1)
Skill: Disable Device (+1)
Skill: Search (+1)
Skill: Spot (+2)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+1)
Feat: (Selected) Toughness


Level 4 (Ranger)
Ability Raise: STR
Skill: Concentration (+1)
Skill: Disable Device (+1)
Skill: Open Lock (+1)
Skill: Search (+1)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+1)


Level 5 (Ranger)
Skill: Concentration (+1)
Skill: Disable Device (+1)
Skill: Search (+1)
Skill: Spot (+2)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+1)


Level 6 (Ranger)
Skill: Concentration (+1)
Skill: Disable Device (+1)
Skill: Open Lock (+1)
Skill: Search (+1)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+1)
Feat: (Favored Enemy) Favored Enemy: Giant
Feat: (Selected) Spring Attack


Level 7 (Ranger)
Skill: Concentration (+1)
Skill: Disable Device (+1)
Skill: Search (+1)
Skill: Spot (+2)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+1)


Level 8 (Rogue)
Ability Raise: STR
Skill: Balance (+7)
Skill: Disable Device (+1)
Skill: Open Lock (+1)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+1)
Enhancement: Rogue Haste Boost I
Enhancement: Ranger Sprint Boost I
Enhancement: Human Adaptability Strength I
Enhancement: Human Improved Recovery I
Enhancement: Human Improved Recovery II
Enhancement: Human Versatility I
Enhancement: Human Versatility II
Enhancement: Human Versatility III
Enhancement: Racial Toughness I
Enhancement: Racial Toughness II
Enhancement: Ranger Favored Damage I
Enhancement: Ranger Favored Damage II
Enhancement: Ranger Favored Resistance I
Enhancement: Ranger Tempest I
Enhancement: Rogue Sneak Attack Training I
Enhancement: Ranger Dexterity I
Enhancement: Rogue Improved Trap Sense I
Enhancement: Rogue Wand and Scroll Mastery I


Level 9 (Ranger)
Skill: Concentration (+2)
Skill: Disable Device (+1)
Skill: Search (+2)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+1)
Feat: (Selected) Improved Critical: Slashing Weapons


Level 10 (Ranger)
Skill: Concentration (+1)
Skill: Disable Device (+1)
Skill: Open Lock (+1)
Skill: Search (+1)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+1)


Level 11 (Ranger)
Skill: Concentration (+1)
Skill: Disable Device (+1)
Skill: Search (+1)
Skill: Spot (+2)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+1)


Level 12 (Ranger)
Ability Raise: STR
Skill: Concentration (+1)
Skill: Disable Device (+1)
Skill: Open Lock (+1)
Skill: Search (+1)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+1)
Feat: (Selected) Exotic Weapon Proficiency: Khopesh
Feat: (Favored Enemy) Favored Enemy: Evil Outsider


Level 13 (Ranger)
Skill: Concentration (+1)
Skill: Disable Device (+1)
Skill: Search (+1)
Skill: Spot (+2)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+1)


Level 14 (Ranger)
Skill: Concentration (+1)
Skill: Disable Device (+1)
Skill: Open Lock (+1)
Skill: Search (+1)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+1)
Enhancement: Human Greater Adaptability Constitution I
Enhancement: Human Improved Recovery III
Enhancement: Racial Toughness III
Enhancement: Ranger Favored Damage III
Enhancement: Ranger Favored Resistance II
Enhancement: Ranger Tempest II
Enhancement: Ranger Dexterity II


Level 15 (Ranger)
Skill: Concentration (+1)
Skill: Disable Device (+1)
Skill: Search (+1)
Skill: Spot (+2)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+1)
Feat: (Selected) Power Attack


Level 16 (Ranger)
Ability Raise: STR
Skill: Concentration (+1)
Skill: Disable Device (+1)
Skill: Search (+1)
Skill: Spot (+2)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+1)


Level 17 (Ranger)
Skill: Concentration (+1)
Skill: Disable Device (+1)
Skill: Open Lock (+1)
Skill: Search (+1)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+1)
Feat: (Favored Enemy) Favored Enemy: Construct


Level 18 (Ranger)
Skill: Concentration (+1)
Skill: Disable Device (+1)
Skill: Search (+1)
Skill: Spot (+2)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+1)
Feat: (Selected) Lightning Reflexes


Level 19 (Ranger)
Skill: Concentration (+1)
Skill: Disable Device (+1)
Skill: Search (+1)
Skill: Spot (+2)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+1)


Level 20 (Ranger)
Ability Raise: STR
Skill: Concentration (+1)
Skill: Disable Device (+1)
Skill: Jump (+1)
Skill: Search (+1)
Skill: Spot (+1)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+1)
Enhancement: Human Versatility IV
Enhancement: Ranger Favored Damage IV
Enhancement: Ranger Favored Resistance III
Enhancement: Ranger Tempest III
Enhancement: Ranger Devotion I
Enhancement: Ranger Devotion II
Enhancement: Ranger Devotion III
Enhancement: Ranger Devotion IV

Epic feats: Quicken & Maximize (or Empower Heal if you plan to take Rejuvenation Cocoon from Primal Avatar ED)

Alternatively, you could drop khopesh prof. so you have enough feats for the Cleave/Great Cleave/Overwhelming Critical chain. Adding CL & GC also opens up Lay Waste & Momentum Swing from the Legendary Dreadnought ED. In that case, I would recommend taking Dodge (1), Mobility (1), Toughness (3), Spring Atk (6), IC:Pierce (9), Power Atk (12), Cleave (15), Lightning Reflexes or TWD (18), Great Cleave (21), and finally Overwhelming Critical (24).

[unbongwah]

Dwarf version is pretty much the same, just slightly different base stats and drops khopesh feat - uses dwarven axes instead.

Advantages over human: higher CON & HPs, racial enhs to axes, bonuses to saves vs. spells
Disadvantages: loses Versatility, Adaptability (-1 STR), and Imp Recovery; 1 less feat delays OTWF and loses khopesh

Character Plan by DDO Character Planner Version 3.9.1
DDO Character Planner Home Page

Level 20 True Neutral Dwarf Female
(1 Fighter \ 1 Rogue \ 18 Ranger) 
Hit Points: 332
Spell Points: 230 
BAB: 19\19\24\29\29
Fortitude: 17
Reflex: 16
Will: 5

                  Starting          Feat/Enhancement
Abilities        Base Stats          Modified Stats
(28 Point)       (Level 1)             (Level 20)
Strength             16                    21
Dexterity            14                    16
Constitution         16                    18
Intelligence         14                    14
Wisdom                8                     8
Charisma              6                     6

                  Starting          Feat/Enhancement
                 Base Skills         Modified Skills
Skills           (Level 1)            (Level 20)
Balance               6                    11
Bluff                -2                    -2
Concentration         3                     4
Diplomacy            -2                    -2
Disable Device        6                    25
Haggle                2                     2
Heal                 -1                    -1
Hide                  2                     3
Intimidate           -2                    -2
Jump                  7                     9
Listen                3                     3
Move Silently         2                     3
Open Lock             6                    24
Perform              n/a                   n/a
Repair                2                     2
Search                6                    27
Spot                  3                    22
Swim                  3                     5
Tumble                6                     7
Use Magic Device      2                    21

Level 1 (Rogue)
Skill: Balance (+4)
Skill: Disable Device (+4)
Skill: Haggle (+4)
Skill: Jump (+4)
Skill: Listen (+4)
Skill: Open Lock (+4)
Skill: Search (+4)
Skill: Spot (+4)
Skill: Tumble (+4)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+4)
Feat: (Selected) Toughness


Level 2 (Ranger)
Skill: Disable Device (+1)
Skill: Open Lock (+1)
Skill: Search (+1)
Skill: Spot (+1)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+1)
Feat: (Favored Enemy) Favored Enemy: Undead


Level 3 (Ranger)
Skill: Disable Device (+1)
Skill: Open Lock (+1)
Skill: Search (+1)
Skill: Spot (+1)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+1)
Feat: (Selected) Dodge


Level 4 (Fighter)
Ability Raise: STR
Skill: Disable Device (+1)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+1)
Feat: (Fighter Bonus) Mobility


Level 5 (Ranger)
Skill: Disable Device (+1)
Skill: Open Lock (+1)
Skill: Search (+2)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+1)


Level 6 (Ranger)
Skill: Disable Device (+1)
Skill: Search (+1)
Skill: Spot (+3)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+1)
Feat: (Selected) Spring Attack


Level 7 (Ranger)
Skill: Disable Device (+1)
Skill: Open Lock (+1)
Skill: Search (+1)
Skill: Spot (+1)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+1)
Feat: (Favored Enemy) Favored Enemy: Giant


Level 8 (Ranger)
Ability Raise: STR
Skill: Disable Device (+1)
Skill: Open Lock (+1)
Skill: Search (+1)
Skill: Spot (+1)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+1)
Enhancement: Rogue Haste Boost I
Enhancement: Ranger Skill Boost I
Enhancement: Ranger Sprint Boost I
Enhancement: Dwarven Axe Attack I
Enhancement: Dwarven Axe Damage I
Enhancement: Dwarven Axe Damage II
Enhancement: Dwarven Constitution I
Enhancement: Dwarven Constitution II
Enhancement: Racial Toughness I
Enhancement: Racial Toughness II
Enhancement: Ranger Favored Attack I
Enhancement: Ranger Favored Damage I
Enhancement: Ranger Favored Damage II
Enhancement: Ranger Tempest I
Enhancement: Rogue Sneak Attack Training I
Enhancement: Fighter Toughness I
Enhancement: Rogue Improved Trap Sense I


Level 9 (Ranger)
Skill: Disable Device (+1)
Skill: Open Lock (+1)
Skill: Search (+1)
Skill: Spot (+1)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+1)
Feat: (Selected) Improved Critical: Slashing Weapons


Level 10 (Ranger)
Skill: Disable Device (+1)
Skill: Open Lock (+1)
Skill: Search (+1)
Skill: Spot (+1)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+1)


Level 11 (Ranger)
Skill: Disable Device (+1)
Skill: Open Lock (+1)
Skill: Search (+1)
Skill: Spot (+1)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+1)


Level 12 (Ranger)
Ability Raise: STR
Skill: Disable Device (+1)
Skill: Open Lock (+1)
Skill: Search (+1)
Skill: Spot (+1)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+1)
Feat: (Favored Enemy) Favored Enemy: Evil Outsider
Feat: (Selected) Oversized Two Weapon Fighting


Level 13 (Ranger)
Skill: Disable Device (+1)
Skill: Open Lock (+1)
Skill: Search (+1)
Skill: Spot (+1)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+1)


Level 14 (Ranger)
Skill: Disable Device (+1)
Skill: Open Lock (+1)
Skill: Search (+1)
Skill: Spot (+1)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+1)
Enhancement: Dwarven Axe Attack II
Enhancement: Racial Toughness III
Enhancement: Racial Toughness IV
Enhancement: Ranger Favored Damage III
Enhancement: Ranger Tempest II
Enhancement: Ranger Dexterity I
Enhancement: Ranger Dexterity II


Level 15 (Ranger)
Skill: Disable Device (+1)
Skill: Open Lock (+1)
Skill: Search (+1)
Skill: Spot (+1)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+1)
Feat: (Selected) Power Attack


Level 16 (Ranger)
Ability Raise: STR
Skill: Disable Device (+1)
Skill: Open Lock (+1)
Skill: Search (+1)
Skill: Spot (+1)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+1)


Level 17 (Ranger)
Skill: Disable Device (+1)
Skill: Open Lock (+1)
Skill: Search (+1)
Skill: Spot (+1)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+1)
Feat: (Favored Enemy) Favored Enemy: Elemental


Level 18 (Ranger)
Skill: Disable Device (+1)
Skill: Open Lock (+1)
Skill: Search (+1)
Skill: Spot (+1)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+1)
Feat: (Selected) Maximize Spell


Level 19 (Ranger)
Skill: Disable Device (+1)
Skill: Open Lock (+1)
Skill: Search (+1)
Skill: Spot (+1)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+1)


Level 20 (Ranger)
Ability Raise: STR
Skill: Disable Device (+1)
Skill: Open Lock (+1)
Skill: Search (+1)
Skill: Spot (+1)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+1)
Enhancement: Dwarven Spell Defense I
Enhancement: Dwarven Spell Defense II
Enhancement: Dwarven Spell Defense III
Enhancement: Ranger Favored Attack II
Enhancement: Ranger Favored Damage IV
Enhancement: Ranger Tempest III
Enhancement: Ranger Devotion I
Enhancement: Ranger Devotion II
Enhancement: Ranger Devotion III
Enhancement: Ranger Devotion IV

EDIT: added 5/11/11 - an elf version by request. For variety's sake I added Imp Crit Ranged instead of Maximize and elven bow enhs; even without AA, Manyshot + IPS still means great burst DPS, so why not capitalize on that? Even with 10 pts put into CON, it's still squishier than a human or dwarf - the sacrifices we make in order to be pretty, eh? Built for TWF w/scimitars; if you prefer rapiers, take Imp Crit Pierce instead of Slash and Aerenal enhs instead of Valenar.

Character Plan by DDO Character Planner Version 3.9.1
DDO Character Planner Home Page

Level 20 True Neutral Elf Female
(1 Fighter \ 1 Rogue \ 18 Ranger) 
Hit Points: 272
Spell Points: 230 
BAB: 19\19\24\29\29
Fortitude: 15
Reflex: 17
Will: 5

                  Starting          Feat/Enhancement
Abilities        Base Stats          Modified Stats
(28 Point)       (Level 1)             (Level 20)
Strength             16                    21
Dexterity            14                    18
Constitution         14                    14
Intelligence         12                    12
Wisdom                8                     8
Charisma              8                     8

                  Starting          Feat/Enhancement
                 Base Skills         Modified Skills
Skills           (Level 1)            (Level 20)
Balance               6                     8
Bluff                -1                    -1
Concentration         2                     2
Diplomacy            -1                    -1
Disable Device        5                    24
Haggle                3                     3
Heal                 -1                    -1
Hide                  2                     4
Intimidate           -1                    -1
Jump                  7                     9
Listen               -1                     1
Move Silently         2                     4
Open Lock             6                    16
Perform              n/a                   n/a
Repair                1                     1
Search                5                    26
Spot                  3                    23
Swim                  3                     5
Tumble                6                     8
Use Magic Device      3                    22

Level 1 (Rogue)
Skill: Balance (+4)
Skill: Disable Device (+4)
Skill: Haggle (+4)
Skill: Jump (+4)
Skill: Open Lock (+4)
Skill: Search (+4)
Skill: Spot (+4)
Skill: Tumble (+4)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+4)
Feat: (Selected) Toughness


Level 2 (Ranger)
Skill: Disable Device (+1)
Skill: Open Lock (+1)
Skill: Search (+1)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+1)
Feat: (Favored Enemy) Favored Enemy: Undead


Level 3 (Ranger)
Skill: Disable Device (+1)
Skill: Search (+1)
Skill: Spot (+2)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+1)
Feat: (Selected) Dodge


Level 4 (Fighter)
Ability Raise: STR
Skill: Disable Device (+1)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+0.5)
Feat: (Fighter Bonus) Mobility


Level 5 (Ranger)
Skill: Disable Device (+1)
Skill: Search (+2)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+1.5)


Level 6 (Ranger)
Skill: Disable Device (+1)
Skill: Search (+1)
Skill: Spot (+2)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+1)
Feat: (Selected) Spring Attack


Level 7 (Ranger)
Skill: Disable Device (+1)
Skill: Open Lock (+1)
Skill: Search (+1)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+1)
Feat: (Favored Enemy) Favored Enemy: Giant


Level 8 (Ranger)
Ability Raise: STR
Skill: Disable Device (+1)
Skill: Search (+1)
Skill: Spot (+2)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+1)
Enhancement: Rogue Haste Boost I
Enhancement: Ranger Skill Boost I
Enhancement: Elven Dexterity I
Enhancement: Valenar Elf Melee Attack I
Enhancement: Valenar Elf Melee Damage I
Enhancement: Valenar Elf Melee Damage II
Enhancement: Elven Ranged Attack I
Enhancement: Elven Ranged Damage I
Enhancement: Racial Toughness I
Enhancement: Racial Toughness II
Enhancement: Ranger Favored Attack I
Enhancement: Ranger Favored Damage I
Enhancement: Ranger Favored Damage II
Enhancement: Ranger Tempest I
Enhancement: Rogue Sneak Attack Training I
Enhancement: Ranger Dexterity I
Enhancement: Fighter Toughness I


Level 9 (Ranger)
Skill: Disable Device (+1)
Skill: Open Lock (+1)
Skill: Search (+1)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+1)
Feat: (Selected) Improved Critical: Slashing Weapons


Level 10 (Ranger)
Skill: Disable Device (+1)
Skill: Search (+1)
Skill: Spot (+2)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+1)


Level 11 (Ranger)
Skill: Disable Device (+1)
Skill: Open Lock (+1)
Skill: Search (+1)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+1)


Level 12 (Ranger)
Ability Raise: STR
Skill: Disable Device (+1)
Skill: Search (+1)
Skill: Spot (+2)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+1)
Feat: (Favored Enemy) Favored Enemy: Evil Outsider
Feat: (Selected) Improved Critical: Ranged Weapons


Level 13 (Ranger)
Skill: Disable Device (+1)
Skill: Open Lock (+1)
Skill: Search (+1)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+1)


Level 14 (Ranger)
Skill: Disable Device (+1)
Skill: Search (+1)
Skill: Spot (+2)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+1)
Enhancement: Elven Dexterity II
Enhancement: Valenar Elf Melee Attack II
Enhancement: Elven Ranged Attack II
Enhancement: Elven Ranged Damage II
Enhancement: Ranger Tempest II
Enhancement: Ranger Dexterity II


Level 15 (Ranger)
Skill: Disable Device (+1)
Skill: Open Lock (+1)
Skill: Search (+1)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+1)
Feat: (Selected) Power Attack


Level 16 (Ranger)
Ability Raise: STR
Skill: Disable Device (+1)
Skill: Search (+1)
Skill: Spot (+2)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+1)


Level 17 (Ranger)
Skill: Disable Device (+1)
Skill: Open Lock (+1)
Skill: Search (+1)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+1)
Feat: (Favored Enemy) Favored Enemy: Elemental


Level 18 (Ranger)
Skill: Disable Device (+1)
Skill: Search (+1)
Skill: Spot (+2)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+1)
Feat: (Selected) Oversized Two Weapon Fighting


Level 19 (Ranger)
Skill: Disable Device (+1)
Skill: Open Lock (+1)
Skill: Search (+1)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+1)


Level 20 (Ranger)
Ability Raise: STR
Skill: Disable Device (+1)
Skill: Search (+1)
Skill: Spot (+2)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+1)
Enhancement: Ranger Skill Boost II
Enhancement: Ranger Sprint Boost I
Enhancement: Ranger Favored Attack II
Enhancement: Ranger Favored Damage III
Enhancement: Ranger Favored Damage IV
Enhancement: Ranger Tempest III
Enhancement: Ranger Devotion I
Enhancement: Ranger Devotion II
Enhancement: Ranger Devotion III
Enhancement: Ranger Devotion IV

EDIT: added 7/6/12

Someone asked me to post a drow version of this build, so here it is. It's a lot like the elf, though I decided to add Improved Sunder for a change of pace. I'm also hoping the recent changes to AC makes it more viable for this build and thus taking FE Defense isn't a waste of APs. Caveat: bear in mind the forthcoming Enhancement changes will add Tempest as a drow racial PrE, so this might not be the best idea. I'll try to remember to revisit this build later.

Character Plan by DDO Character Planner Version 03.12.02
DDO Character Planner Home Page

Level 20 True Neutral Drow Female
(1 Fighter \ 1 Rogue \ 18 Ranger) 
Hit Points: 272
Spell Points: 230 
BAB: 19\19\24\29\29
Fortitude: 15
Reflex: 17
Will: 5

                  Starting          Feat/Enhancement
Abilities        Base Stats          Modified Stats
(28 Point)       (Level 1)             (Level 20)
Strength             16                    21
Dexterity            14                    18
Constitution         14                    14
Intelligence         14                    14
Wisdom                8                     8
Charisma             10                    10

                  Starting          Feat/Enhancement
                 Base Skills         Modified Skills
Skills           (Level 1)            (Level 20)
Balance               6                     8
Bluff                 0                     0
Concentration         4                    25
Diplomacy             0                     0
Disable Device        6                    25
Haggle                4                     4
Heal                 -1                    -1
Hide                  2                     4
Intimidate            0                     0
Jump                  7                     9
Listen               -1                     1
Move Silently         2                     4
Open Lock             6                    16
Perform               n/a                   n/a
Repair                2                     2
Search                6                    27
Spot                  3                    21
Swim                  3                     5
Tumble                6                     8
Use Magic Device      4                    23

Level 1 (Rogue)
Skill: Balance (+4)
Skill: Concentration (+2)
Skill: Disable Device (+4)
Skill: Haggle (+4)
Skill: Jump (+4)
Skill: Open Lock (+4)
Skill: Search (+4)
Skill: Spot (+4)
Skill: Tumble (+4)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+4)
Feat: (Selected) Dodge


Level 2 (Ranger)
Skill: Concentration (+3)
Skill: Disable Device (+1)
Skill: Search (+1)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+1)
Feat: (Favored Enemy) Favored Enemy: Undead


Level 3 (Ranger)
Skill: Concentration (+1)
Skill: Disable Device (+1)
Skill: Search (+1)
Skill: Spot (+2)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+1)
Feat: (Selected) Toughness


Level 4 (Fighter)
Ability Raise: STR
Skill: Disable Device (+1)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+1)
Feat: (Fighter Bonus) Mobility


Level 5 (Ranger)
Skill: Concentration (+2)
Skill: Disable Device (+1)
Skill: Search (+2)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+1)


Level 6 (Ranger)
Skill: Concentration (+1)
Skill: Disable Device (+1)
Skill: Open Lock (+1)
Skill: Search (+1)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+1)
Feat: (Selected) Spring Attack


Level 7 (Ranger)
Skill: Concentration (+1)
Skill: Disable Device (+1)
Skill: Search (+1)
Skill: Spot (+2)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+1)
Feat: (Favored Enemy) Favored Enemy: Giant


Level 8 (Ranger)
Ability Raise: STR
Skill: Concentration (+1)
Skill: Disable Device (+1)
Skill: Open Lock (+1)
Skill: Search (+1)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+1)
Enhancement: Rogue Damage Boost I
Enhancement: Rogue Haste Boost I
Enhancement: Ranger Skill Boost I
Enhancement: Ranger Skill Boost II
Enhancement: Drow Weapon Attack I
Enhancement: Drow Weapon Damage I
Enhancement: Drow Weapon Damage II
Enhancement: Elven Dexterity I
Enhancement: Racial Toughness I
Enhancement: Racial Toughness II
Enhancement: Ranger Favored Attack I
Enhancement: Ranger Favored Damage I
Enhancement: Ranger Favored Damage II
Enhancement: Ranger Tempest I
Enhancement: Rogue Sneak Attack Training I
Enhancement: Ranger Dexterity I
Enhancement: Fighter Toughness I


Level 9 (Ranger)
Skill: Concentration (+1)
Skill: Disable Device (+1)
Skill: Search (+1)
Skill: Spot (+2)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+1)
Feat: (Selected) Improved Critical: Piercing Weapons


Level 10 (Ranger)
Skill: Concentration (+1)
Skill: Disable Device (+1)
Skill: Open Lock (+1)
Skill: Search (+1)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+1)


Level 11 (Ranger)
Skill: Concentration (+1)
Skill: Disable Device (+1)
Skill: Search (+1)
Skill: Spot (+2)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+1)


Level 12 (Ranger)
Ability Raise: STR
Skill: Concentration (+1)
Skill: Disable Device (+1)
Skill: Open Lock (+1)
Skill: Search (+1)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+1)
Feat: (Favored Enemy) Favored Enemy: Evil Outsider
Feat: (Selected) Power Attack


Level 13 (Ranger)
Skill: Concentration (+1)
Skill: Disable Device (+1)
Skill: Search (+1)
Skill: Spot (+2)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+1)


Level 14 (Ranger)
Skill: Concentration (+1)
Skill: Disable Device (+1)
Skill: Open Lock (+1)
Skill: Search (+1)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+1)
Enhancement: Ranger Skill Boost III
Enhancement: Drow Weapon Attack II
Enhancement: Elven Dexterity II
Enhancement: Ranger Favored Damage III
Enhancement: Ranger Favored Defense I
Enhancement: Ranger Favored Defense II
Enhancement: Ranger Tempest II
Enhancement: Ranger Dexterity II


Level 15 (Ranger)
Skill: Concentration (+1)
Skill: Disable Device (+1)
Skill: Search (+1)
Skill: Spot (+2)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+1)
Feat: (Selected) Improved Sunder


Level 16 (Ranger)
Ability Raise: STR
Skill: Concentration (+1)
Skill: Disable Device (+1)
Skill: Open Lock (+1)
Skill: Search (+1)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+1)


Level 17 (Ranger)
Skill: Concentration (+1)
Skill: Disable Device (+1)
Skill: Search (+1)
Skill: Spot (+2)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+1)
Feat: (Favored Enemy) Favored Enemy: Construct


Level 18 (Ranger)
Skill: Concentration (+1)
Skill: Disable Device (+1)
Skill: Open Lock (+1)
Skill: Search (+1)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+1)
Feat: (Selected) Oversized Two Weapon Fighting


Level 19 (Ranger)
Skill: Concentration (+1)
Skill: Disable Device (+1)
Skill: Search (+1)
Skill: Spot (+2)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+1)


Level 20 (Ranger)
Ability Raise: STR
Skill: Concentration (+1)
Skill: Disable Device (+1)
Skill: Open Lock (+1)
Skill: Search (+1)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+1)
Enhancement: Ranger Extra Action Boost I
Enhancement: Ranger Skill Boost IV
Enhancement: Fighter Strategy (Sunder) I
Enhancement: Ranger Favored Damage IV
Enhancement: Ranger Favored Defense III
Enhancement: Ranger Tempest III
Enhancement: Ranger Devotion I
Enhancement: Ranger Devotion II
Enhancement: Ranger Devotion III
Enhancement: Ranger Devotion IV

EDIT: another option is to start DEX 16 INT 12; i.e., +1 AC & Reflex (now that AC is relevant again) for fewer skill pts (I'd probably drop them out of Spot & OL).

[k1ngp1n]

And this, folks, is how to build a f2p ranger.

[Irinis]

Nice. +1 rep, again.

[Werewolfzz]

I've been trying to follow along a bit with Tihocan's Tempest III build... But the one major difference is that I'm playing a Drow! (Ranger2/Rogue1 thus far)

Str - 16
Dex - 16
Con - 12
Int - 14
Wis - 10
Chr - 10

Just in advance, I understand that human may be higher DPS, etc. (or some other "better"). But what I'm looking for is:

Drow Ranger18/Rogue1/??????? (Fighter seems most likely, Don't have Monk unlocked)

I am under the impression that with a Drow, it might be more effective to go Dex-based? Does this remain true even without the Monk lvl? Can I still be an effective Ranger as a Str-based Drow?

Also, I opted for a higher Int score in order to stay rich is Skill points. However, I don't know if I can have all that I want =( ...

UMD, Spot, Search, Disable Device, Open Locks,... Is there enough left for Move Silently and Hide? I already tossed a few in Jump, Tumble, Balance & Haggle... Do I need to start over?

As for Feats, If its possible to do a Dex-Based Drow Ranger without Monk (and it stays worth it...) I'd like to get Point Blank Shot to take advantage of the other freebie feats that come with Ranger such as many shot and rapid shot. Are there enough feats to pull that off? I don't mind using Rapiers if that is a factor

So I guess what I was hoping for was 2 separate builds:

1. Str-Based Drow Tempest Ranger18/Rogue1/Fighter1 (or other twist on Ranger18/Rogue1)

2. Dex-Based Drow Tempest Ranger18/Rogue1/Fighter1 (or other twist on Ranger18/Rogue1)

And then I guess I ought to consider being tempted by:

3. Dex-Based Drow Tempest Ranger18/Rogue1/Monk1 ... I'm kinda hoping the Monk splash is NOT awesome for Drow... hahaha... its pricey =)

Well,... Thanks In Advance to anyone who can offer up some guidance to a lost Ranger!

~X~

Character Plan by DDO Character Planner Version 3.7.2
DDO Character Planner Home Page

Name 
Level 3 True Neutral Drow Male
(1 Rogue \ 2 Ranger) 
Hit Points: 45
Spell Points: 0 
BAB: 2\2
Fortitude: 4
Reflex: 9
Will: 0

                  Starting          Feat/Enhancement
Abilities        Base Stats          Modified Stats
(28 Point)       (Level 1)             (Level 3)
Strength             16                    16
Dexterity            16                    18
Constitution         12                    12
Intelligence         14                    14
Wisdom               10                    10
Charisma             10                    10

                  Starting          Feat/Enhancement
                 Base Skills         Modified Skills
Skills           (Level 1)            (Level 3)
Balance               7                     8
Bluff                 0                     0
Concentration         1                     1
Diplomacy             0                     0
Disable Device        6                     7
Haggle                4                     4
Heal                  0                     0
Hide                  5                     9
Intimidate            0                     0
Jump                  7                     7
Listen                0                     2
Move Silently         5                     9
Open Lock             7                     8
Perform               n/a                   n/a
Repair                2                     2
Search                6                    10
Spot                  4                     8
Swim                  3                     3
Tumble                7                     8
Use Magic Device      4                     6

Level 1 (Rogue)
Feat: (Selected) Dodge
Enhancement: Rogue Haste Boost I
Enhancement: Rogue Skill Boost I
Enhancement: Rogue Sneak Attack Training I
Enhancement: Rogue Improved Trap Sense I


Level 2 (Ranger)
Feat: (Favored Enemy) Favored Enemy: Undead


Level 3 (Ranger)
Feat: (Selected) Mobility
Enhancement: Drow Melee Damage I
Enhancement: Elven Dexterity I
Enhancement: Ranger Favored Damage I
Enhancement: Ranger Dexterity I

How about that =) ... And I now know how to use the planner... Kinda

[FlyingTurtle]

I am under the impression that with a Drow, it might be more effective to go Dex-based?

No, never, nada. You're not a Rogue or an AA. You don't have the extra damage to make up for the loss of +dam from low strength.

So, in your build your dex is too high. I'd drop it to 13, dip Wis to 9, and kick Con up to 14. For weapons, go Rapiers and Shortswords.

As for Feats, If its possible to do a Dex-Based Drow Ranger without Monk (and it stays worth it...) I'd like to get Point Blank Shot to take advantage of the other freebie feats that come with Ranger such as many shot and rapid shot. Are there enough feats to pull that off? I don't mind using Rapiers if that is a factor

PBS is useless on a tempest. Why pew pew when you can pull out your melee weapons and mince the enemy by running 30' (less than 1s unhasted)?

[unbongwah]

I am under the impression that with a Drow, it might be more effective to go Dex-based? Does this remain true even without the Monk lvl? Can I still be an effective Ranger as a Str-based Drow?

Possible - yes, if you plan to use rapiers and/or short swords to take advantage of both Finesse and drow enhs. More effective than STR-based? Wellll...on the plus side, you'll have higher to-hit, higher Reflex saves, and higher AC; but the downsides are lower DPS, costs a feat on a build which is pretty short on them (since you spend half your feats on your Tempest pre-reqs), and without a monk splash your AC won't really be super-high.

I'd like to get Point Blank Shot to take advantage of the other freebie feats that come with Ranger such as many shot and rapid shot. Are there enough feats to pull that off?

No, but it doesn't matter, as rangers always get their free feats, regardless of whether or not they meet the feat pre-reqs; it's what makes being a ranger so cool.

I would say you could do a Finesse-based drow version of my build and not be ZOMG TOTALLY GIMP3D!!1! but it's also not optimal if you don't have monk (and maybe not optimal even if you do). Maybe I'll play around with the builder and see what I can come up with...

[Mercureal]

I am under the impression that with a Drow, it might be more effective to go Dex-based? Does this remain true even without the Monk lvl? Can I still be an effective Ranger as a Str-based Drow?

I'm not sure who was giving you that impression, but if you plan to primarily use melee combat, Str is better, and yes you can be effective that way (speaking as a 28-point elf). Drow can certainly raise Dex more easily, but that doesn't make them more effective.

Dex gives you ranged attack bonus, reflex save bonus and AC bonus; if you want melee attack bonus as well it costs a feat. The reflex save bonus from good Dex is nice because you'll have evasion, but you can still get a very nice Dex without sacrificing level-up points. You can get +5 from enhancements and another +6 eventually from equipment, meaning you can have a 27 Dex without using any ability increases as you level. That's more than enough to give you good saves.

Str give melee attack bonus *and* melee damage bonus *and* range damage bonus (ranger automatic bow-strength feat). AC isn't useless, but building for it takes a lot of work and depends as much on gear as on stats, meaning high Dex alone won't help you avoid getting hit for very long. Str makes you much better in combat, because ultimately your role is to kill things.

[Werewolfzz]

Maybe I'll play around with the builder and see what I can come up with...

Thanks... I just spent the day on the Character Planner and I was worried I may have to reroll this Ranger just to max out UMD, Disable Device, Open Locks, Search & Spot =( ... But its pretty close. 2 ranks shy in Search, 3 in open locks

All done and said,... I'm trying to salvage/fix what I've already got (and no doubt making some mistakes on the planner along the way)... This is where I am at thus far... =)

Helpful Comments Welcome!

Character Plan by DDO Character Planner Version 3.7.2
DDO Character Planner Home Page

Name 
Level 20 True Neutral Drow Male
(1 Fighter \ 1 Rogue \ 18 Ranger) 
Hit Points: 252
Spell Points: 370 
BAB: 19\19\24\29\29
Fortitude: 14
Reflex: 18
Will: 6

                  Starting          Feat/Enhancement
Abilities        Base Stats          Modified Stats
(28 Point)       (Level 1)             (Level 20)
Strength             16                    21
Dexterity            16                    21
Constitution         12                    12
Intelligence         14                    14
Wisdom               10                    10
Charisma             10                    10

                  Starting          Feat/Enhancement
                 Base Skills         Modified Skills
Skills           (Level 1)            (Level 20)
Balance               7                     9
Bluff                 0                     0
Concentration         1                     1
Diplomacy             0                     0
Disable Device        6                    25
Haggle                4                     4
Heal                  0                     0
Hide                  5                    10
Intimidate            0                     0
Jump                  7                     9
Listen                0                     2
Move Silently         5                    10
Open Lock             7                    25
Perform               n/a                   n/a
Repair                2                     2
Search                6                    24
Spot                  4                    24
Swim                  3                     5
Tumble                7                     9
Use Magic Device      4                    23

Level 1 (Rogue)
Skill: Balance (+4)
Skill: Disable Device (+4)
Skill: Haggle (+4)
Skill: Hide (+2)
Skill: Jump (+4)
Skill: Move Silently (+2)
Skill: Open Lock (+4)
Skill: Search (+4)
Skill: Spot (+4)
Skill: Tumble (+4)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+4)
Feat: (Selected) Dodge
Enhancement: Rogue Haste Boost I
Enhancement: Rogue Skill Boost I
Enhancement: Rogue Sneak Attack Training I
Enhancement: Rogue Improved Trap Sense I


Level 2 (Ranger)
Skill: Disable Device (+1)
Skill: Hide (+1)
Skill: Move Silently (+1)
Skill: Search (+1)
Skill: Spot (+1)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+1)
Feat: (Favored Enemy) Favored Enemy: Undead


Level 3 (Ranger)
Skill: Hide (+2)
Skill: Move Silently (+2)
Skill: Search (+1)
Skill: Spot (+1)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+1)
Feat: (Selected) Mobility
Enhancement: Drow Melee Damage I
Enhancement: Elven Dexterity I
Enhancement: Ranger Favored Damage I
Enhancement: Ranger Dexterity I


Level 4 (Ranger)
Ability Raise: STR
Skill: Disable Device (+2)
Skill: Open Lock (+1)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+1)
Enhancement: Drow Melee Attack I


Level 5 (Ranger)
Skill: Disable Device (+1)
Skill: Open Lock (+1)
Skill: Spot (+2)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+1)
Enhancement: Ranger Energy of the Wild I


Level 6 (Ranger)
Skill: Disable Device (+1)
Skill: Open Lock (+1)
Skill: Search (+1)
Skill: Spot (+1)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+1)
Feat: (Favored Enemy) Favored Enemy: Giant
Feat: (Selected) Spring Attack
Enhancement: Ranger Favored Damage II


Level 7 (Ranger)
Skill: Disable Device (+1)
Skill: Open Lock (+1)
Skill: Search (+1)
Skill: Spot (+1)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+1)
Enhancement: Drow Melee Damage II
Enhancement: Ranger Tempest I
Enhancement: Ranger Dexterity II


Level 8 (Fighter)
Ability Raise: STR
Skill: Disable Device (+1)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+1)
Feat: (Fighter Bonus) Oversized Two Weapon Fighting
Enhancement: Fighter Attack Boost I
Enhancement: Fighter Critical Accuracy I


Level 9 (Ranger)
Skill: Disable Device (+1)
Skill: Open Lock (+1)
Skill: Search (+1)
Skill: Spot (+1)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+1)
Feat: (Selected) Toughness
Enhancement: Racial Toughness I
Enhancement: Racial Toughness II
Enhancement: Fighter Toughness I


Level 10 (Ranger)
Skill: Disable Device (+1)
Skill: Open Lock (+1)
Skill: Search (+1)
Skill: Spot (+1)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+1)
Enhancement: Ranger Devotion I
Enhancement: Ranger Devotion II
Enhancement: Ranger Energy of the Wild II


Level 11 (Ranger)
Skill: Disable Device (+1)
Skill: Open Lock (+1)
Skill: Search (+1)
Skill: Spot (+1)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+1)
Enhancement: Drow Melee Attack II


Level 12 (Ranger)
Ability Raise: STR
Skill: Disable Device (+1)
Skill: Open Lock (+1)
Skill: Search (+1)
Skill: Spot (+1)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+1)
Feat: (Favored Enemy) Favored Enemy: Evil Outsider
Feat: (Selected) Improved Critical: Piercing Weapons
Enhancement: Ranger Devotion III


Level 13 (Ranger)
Skill: Disable Device (+1)
Skill: Open Lock (+1)
Skill: Search (+1)
Skill: Spot (+1)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+1)
Enhancement: Ranger Devotion IV


Level 14 (Ranger)
Skill: Disable Device (+1)
Skill: Open Lock (+1)
Skill: Search (+1)
Skill: Spot (+1)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+1)
Enhancement: Ranger Tempest II
Enhancement: Ranger Energy of the Wild III


Level 15 (Ranger)
Skill: Disable Device (+1)
Skill: Open Lock (+1)
Skill: Search (+1)
Skill: Spot (+1)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+1)
Feat: (Selected) Power Attack
Enhancement: Ranger Favored Attack I
Enhancement: Ranger Favored Damage III


Level 16 (Ranger)
Ability Raise: STR
Skill: Disable Device (+1)
Skill: Open Lock (+1)
Skill: Search (+1)
Skill: Spot (+1)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+1)
Enhancement: Elven Dexterity II


Level 17 (Ranger)
Skill: Disable Device (+1)
Skill: Open Lock (+1)
Skill: Search (+1)
Skill: Spot (+1)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+1)
Feat: (Favored Enemy) Favored Enemy: Elemental
Enhancement: Ranger Favored Damage IV


Level 18 (Ranger)
Skill: Disable Device (+1)
Skill: Open Lock (+1)
Skill: Search (+1)
Skill: Spot (+1)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+1)
Feat: (Selected) Mental Toughness
Enhancement: Ranger Favored Attack II


Level 19 (Ranger)
Skill: Disable Device (+1)
Skill: Open Lock (+1)
Skill: Search (+1)
Skill: Spot (+1)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+1)


Level 20 (Ranger)
Ability Raise: STR
Skill: Disable Device (+1)
Skill: Open Lock (+1)
Skill: Search (+1)
Skill: Spot (+1)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+1)
Enhancement: Ranger Tempest III
Enhancement: Ranger Dexterity III

[unbongwah]

OK, here's a DEX-based drow variant with stealth skills using rapiers (or short swords). Personally I wouldn't take this approach myself - partly because it delays Toughness so late, mostly because of the lower DPS mentioned before - but it's not completely terrible either. The trick to playing a Finesse build IMHO is to look for the biggest STR boost you can get for the extra dmg (Bull's STR potions / wands / spells from friendly casters early on, then +6 STR items ASAP and of course +2 STR tome if you can; don't forget to buff w/Ram's Might too); and use weapons which do extra dmg that's not dependent on your STR (e.g., burst effects).

Max ranks in UMD, Disable, Spot, & Search; 22 ranks in Hide & MS; only 12 ranks in Open Lock but one advantage to going DEX-based is the big bonus to OL (and other DEX skills) it provides.

Character Plan by DDO Character Planner Version 3.7.2
DDO Character Planner Home Page

Level 20 True Neutral Drow Female
(1 Fighter \ 1 Rogue \ 18 Ranger) 
Hit Points: 272
Spell Points: 205 
BAB: 19\19\24\29\29
Fortitude: 15
Reflex: 21
Will: 5

                  Starting          Feat/Enhancement
Abilities        Base Stats          Modified Stats
(28 Point)       (Level 1)             (Level 20)
Strength             14                    14
Dexterity            16                    26
Constitution         14                    14
Intelligence         16                    16
Wisdom                8                     8
Charisma             10                    10

                  Starting          Feat/Enhancement
                 Base Skills         Modified Skills
Skills           (Level 1)            (Level 20)
Balance               7                    12
Bluff                 0                     0
Concentration         2                     2
Diplomacy             0                     0
Disable Device        7                    26
Haggle                4                     4
Heal                 -1                    -1
Hide                  7                    30
Intimidate            0                     0
Jump                  6                     7
Listen               -1                     1
Move Silently         7                    30
Open Lock             7                    20
Perform               n/a                   n/a
Repair                3                     3
Search                7                    28
Spot                  3                    24
Swim                  2                     2
Tumble                7                    12
Use Magic Device      4                    23

Level 1 (Rogue)
Skill: Balance (+4)
Skill: Disable Device (+4)
Skill: Haggle (+4)
Skill: Hide (+4)
Skill: Jump (+4)
Skill: Move Silently (+4)
Skill: Open Lock (+4)
Skill: Search (+4)
Skill: Spot (+4)
Skill: Tumble (+4)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+4)
Feat: (Selected) Dodge


Level 2 (Ranger)
Skill: Disable Device (+1)
Skill: Hide (+1)
Skill: Move Silently (+1)
Skill: Open Lock (+0.5)
Skill: Search (+1)
Skill: Spot (+1)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+1)
Feat: (Favored Enemy) Favored Enemy: Undead


Level 3 (Ranger)
Skill: Disable Device (+1)
Skill: Hide (+1)
Skill: Move Silently (+1)
Skill: Open Lock (+0.5)
Skill: Search (+1)
Skill: Spot (+1)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+1)
Feat: (Selected) Weapon Finesse


Level 4 (Ranger)
Ability Raise: DEX
Skill: Disable Device (+1)
Skill: Hide (+1)
Skill: Move Silently (+1)
Skill: Open Lock (+0.5)
Skill: Search (+1)
Skill: Spot (+1)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+1)


Level 5 (Ranger)
Skill: Disable Device (+1)
Skill: Hide (+1)
Skill: Move Silently (+1)
Skill: Open Lock (+0.5)
Skill: Search (+1)
Skill: Spot (+1)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+1)


Level 6 (Fighter)
Skill: Disable Device (+1)
Skill: Open Lock (+0.5)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+1)
Feat: (Selected) Mobility
Feat: (Fighter Bonus) Spring Attack


Level 7 (Ranger)
Skill: Disable Device (+1)
Skill: Open Lock (+0.5)
Skill: Search (+2)
Skill: Spot (+2)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+1)
Feat: (Favored Enemy) Favored Enemy: Giant


Level 8 (Ranger)
Ability Raise: DEX
Skill: Disable Device (+1)
Skill: Hide (+2)
Skill: Move Silently (+2)
Skill: Search (+1)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+1)


Level 9 (Ranger)
Skill: Disable Device (+1)
Skill: Hide (+1)
Skill: Move Silently (+1)
Skill: Search (+1)
Skill: Spot (+2)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+1)
Feat: (Selected) Improved Critical: Piercing Weapons


Level 10 (Ranger)
Skill: Disable Device (+1)
Skill: Hide (+1)
Skill: Move Silently (+1)
Skill: Open Lock (+0.5)
Skill: Search (+1)
Skill: Spot (+1)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+1)


Level 11 (Ranger)
Skill: Disable Device (+1)
Skill: Hide (+1)
Skill: Move Silently (+1)
Skill: Open Lock (+0.5)
Skill: Search (+1)
Skill: Spot (+1)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+1)


Level 12 (Ranger)
Ability Raise: DEX
Skill: Disable Device (+1)
Skill: Hide (+1)
Skill: Move Silently (+1)
Skill: Open Lock (+0.5)
Skill: Search (+1)
Skill: Spot (+1)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+1)
Feat: (Favored Enemy) Favored Enemy: Evil Outsider
Feat: (Selected) Toughness


Level 13 (Ranger)
Skill: Disable Device (+1)
Skill: Hide (+1)
Skill: Move Silently (+1)
Skill: Open Lock (+0.5)
Skill: Search (+1)
Skill: Spot (+1)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+1)


Level 14 (Ranger)
Skill: Disable Device (+1)
Skill: Hide (+1)
Skill: Move Silently (+1)
Skill: Open Lock (+0.5)
Skill: Search (+1)
Skill: Spot (+1)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+1)


Level 15 (Ranger)
Skill: Disable Device (+1)
Skill: Hide (+1)
Skill: Move Silently (+1)
Skill: Open Lock (+0.5)
Skill: Search (+1)
Skill: Spot (+1)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+1)
Feat: (Selected) Power Attack


Level 16 (Ranger)
Ability Raise: DEX
Skill: Disable Device (+1)
Skill: Hide (+1)
Skill: Move Silently (+1)
Skill: Open Lock (+0.5)
Skill: Search (+1)
Skill: Spot (+1)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+1)


Level 17 (Ranger)
Skill: Disable Device (+1)
Skill: Hide (+1)
Skill: Move Silently (+1)
Skill: Open Lock (+0.5)
Skill: Search (+1)
Skill: Spot (+1)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+1)
Feat: (Favored Enemy) Favored Enemy: Elemental


Level 18 (Ranger)
Skill: Disable Device (+1)
Skill: Hide (+1)
Skill: Move Silently (+1)
Skill: Open Lock (+0.5)
Skill: Search (+1)
Skill: Spot (+1)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+1)
Feat: (Selected) Oversized Two Weapon Fighting


Level 19 (Ranger)
Skill: Disable Device (+1)
Skill: Hide (+1)
Skill: Move Silently (+1)
Skill: Open Lock (+0.5)
Skill: Search (+1)
Skill: Spot (+1)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+1)


Level 20 (Ranger)
Ability Raise: DEX
Skill: Disable Device (+1)
Skill: Hide (+1)
Skill: Jump (+1)
Skill: Move Silently (+1)
Skill: Search (+1)
Skill: Spot (+1)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+1)
Enhancement: Rogue Haste Boost I
Enhancement: Ranger Skill Boost I
Enhancement: Ranger Skill Boost II
Enhancement: Ranger Skill Boost III
Enhancement: Ranger Skill Boost IV
Enhancement: Ranger Sprint Boost I
Enhancement: Drow Melee Attack I
Enhancement: Drow Melee Attack II
Enhancement: Drow Melee Damage I
Enhancement: Drow Melee Damage II
Enhancement: Elven Dexterity I
Enhancement: Elven Dexterity II
Enhancement: Elven Enchantment Resistance I
Enhancement: Elven Enchantment Resistance II
Enhancement: Elven Enchantment Resistance III
Enhancement: Racial Toughness I
Enhancement: Racial Toughness II
Enhancement: Ranger Favored Attack I
Enhancement: Ranger Favored Attack II
Enhancement: Ranger Favored Damage I
Enhancement: Ranger Favored Damage II
Enhancement: Ranger Favored Damage III
Enhancement: Ranger Favored Damage IV
Enhancement: Ranger Favored Resistance I
Enhancement: Ranger Tempest I
Enhancement: Ranger Tempest II
Enhancement: Ranger Tempest III
Enhancement: Rogue Faster Sneaking I
Enhancement: Rogue Sneak Attack Training I
Enhancement: Ranger Dexterity I
Enhancement: Ranger Dexterity II
Enhancement: Ranger Dexterity III
Enhancement: Fighter Toughness I
Enhancement: Rogue Improved Trap Sense I

Alternate feat order: Toughness (1), Finesse (3), Dodge (6), Mobility (ftr bonus), Imp Crit Pierce (9), Spring Attack (12), PA (15), OTWF (18). You delay Tempest I four levels (from 8 to 12), but gain extra HPs from Toughness + enhs right away, which can help a lot on a squishy build like this. The silver lining to the nerf to Tempest I is it's less urgent to get it ASAP, IMHO.

[Werewolfzz]

I'm beginning to see why most Rangers go STR-Based!

Here's what I've come up with, all prettied up... hahaha

Edit: updated earlier post with my final version

[FlyingTurtle]

Here's what I've come up with, all prettied up... hahaha

Too much dex for a Str-based character.

You do know the minimum dex requirement for this build is only 13 right?

[Werewolfzz]

Too much dex for a Str-based character.

You do know the minimum dex requirement for this build is only 13 right?

I'm wearing +2 studded leather as to avoid spell failure and armor check penalties on my Rogue skills... which are set to be max'd

With a 13 Dex, are you suggesting I wear Plate Mail... Are the wands, scrolls and Ranger Spells not affected by the Full Plate Armor checks and spell failure % ?

[unbongwah]

Arcane spell failure only affects arcane spell casters; rangers (and clerics and FvS) are divine casters. The ftr splash lets you wear med & hvy armor without the -4 non-prof penalty; but you have to wear light armor or robes to benefit from Evasion (ranger lvl 9).

That said, a STR-based ranger (w/out a monk splash) isn't really a high-AC build; in the long term it's not something you worry about.

That said, there's nothing inherently wrong with your base stats, IMHO, though I would probably start 16 / 16 / 12 / 16 / 8 / 10 or 16 / 14 / 14 / 14 / 8 / 10; i.e., dump-stat WIS for more INT or CON.

[Werewolfzz]

Arcane spell failure only affects arcane spell casters; rangers (and clerics and FvS) are divine casters. The ftr splash lets you wear med & hvy armor without the -4 non-prof penalty; but you have to wear light armor or robes to benefit from Evasion (ranger lvl 9).

That said, a STR-based ranger (w/out a monk splash) isn't really a high-AC build; in the long term it's not something you worry about.

That said, there's nothing inherently wrong with your base stats, IMHO, though I would probably start 16 / 16 / 12 / 16 / 8 / 10 or 16 / 14 / 14 / 14 / 8 / 10; i.e., dump-stat WIS for more INT or CON.

What about Arcane Wands and Scrolls that UMD will give me access to? Does wearing heavy armor affect the spell failure chance of arcane scrolls and wands?

Also, the trap and lock skills are also affected by heavy armor as well, right? The armor check penalty (not proficiency penalty) is subtracted from the skill modifier, right?

As for dumping Wisdom, you recommend using +1-6 Wisdom items to obtain access to my spells? Or did you have something more clever in mind?

... And thank you so much for taking the time =)

[t0r012]

Dwarf version is pretty much the same, just slightly different base stats and drops khopesh feat - uses dwarven axes instead.

Advantages over human: higher CON & HPs, racial enhs to axes, bonuses to saves vs. spells
Disadvantages: loses Versatility, Adaptability (-1 STR), and Imp Recovery; 1 less feat delays OTWF and loses khopesh

Character Plan by DDO Character Planner Version 3.5.1
DDO Character Planner Home Page

Level 20 True Neutral Dwarf Female
(1 Fighter \ 1 Rogue \ 18 Ranger) 
Hit Points: 332
Spell Points: 205 
BAB: 19\19\24\29\29
Fortitude: 17
Reflex: 16
Will: 5

                  Starting          Feat/Enhancement
Abilities        Base Stats          Modified Stats
(28 Point)       (Level 1)             (Level 20)
Strength             16                    21
Dexterity            14                    16
Constitution         16                    18
Intelligence         14                    14
Wisdom                8                     8
Charisma              6                     6

                  Starting          Feat/Enhancement
                 Base Skills         Modified Skills
Skills           (Level 1)            (Level 20)
Balance               6                    11
Bluff                -2                    -2
Concentration         3                     4
Diplomacy            -2                    -2
Disable Device        6                    25
Haggle                2                     2
Heal                 -1                    -1
Hide                  2                     3
Intimidate           -2                    -2
Jump                  7                     9
Listen                3                     3
Move Silently         2                     3
Open Lock             6                    24
Perform              n/a                   n/a
Repair                2                     2
Search                6                    27
Spot                  3                    22
Swim                  3                     5
Tumble                6                     7
Use Magic Device      2                    21

Level 1 (Rogue)
Skill: Balance (+4)
Skill: Disable Device (+4)
Skill: Haggle (+4)
Skill: Jump (+4)
Skill: Listen (+4)
Skill: Open Lock (+4)
Skill: Search (+4)
Skill: Spot (+4)
Skill: Tumble (+4)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+4)
Feat: (Selected) Toughness


Level 2 (Ranger)
Skill: Disable Device (+1)
Skill: Open Lock (+1)
Skill: Search (+1)
Skill: Spot (+1)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+1)
Feat: (Favored Enemy) Favored Enemy: Undead


Level 3 (Ranger)
Skill: Disable Device (+1)
Skill: Open Lock (+1)
Skill: Search (+1)
Skill: Spot (+1)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+1)
Feat: (Selected) Dodge


Level 4 (Fighter)
Ability Raise: STR
Skill: Disable Device (+1)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+1)
Feat: (Fighter Bonus) Mobility


Level 5 (Ranger)
Skill: Disable Device (+1)
Skill: Open Lock (+1)
Skill: Search (+2)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+1)


Level 6 (Ranger)
Skill: Disable Device (+1)
Skill: Search (+1)
Skill: Spot (+3)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+1)
Feat: (Selected) Spring Attack


Level 7 (Ranger)
Skill: Disable Device (+1)
Skill: Open Lock (+1)
Skill: Search (+1)
Skill: Spot (+1)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+1)
Feat: (Favored Enemy) Favored Enemy: Giant


Level 8 (Ranger)
Ability Raise: STR
Skill: Disable Device (+1)
Skill: Open Lock (+1)
Skill: Search (+1)
Skill: Spot (+1)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+1)


Level 9 (Ranger)
Skill: Disable Device (+1)
Skill: Open Lock (+1)
Skill: Search (+1)
Skill: Spot (+1)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+1)
Feat: (Selected) Improved Critical: Slashing Weapons


Level 10 (Ranger)
Skill: Disable Device (+1)
Skill: Open Lock (+1)
Skill: Search (+1)
Skill: Spot (+1)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+1)


Level 11 (Ranger)
Skill: Disable Device (+1)
Skill: Open Lock (+1)
Skill: Search (+1)
Skill: Spot (+1)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+1)


Level 12 (Ranger)
Ability Raise: STR
Skill: Disable Device (+1)
Skill: Open Lock (+1)
Skill: Search (+1)
Skill: Spot (+1)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+1)
Feat: (Favored Enemy) Favored Enemy: Evil Outsider
Feat: (Selected) Oversized Two Weapon Fighting


Level 13 (Ranger)
Skill: Disable Device (+1)
Skill: Open Lock (+1)
Skill: Search (+1)
Skill: Spot (+1)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+1)


Level 14 (Ranger)
Skill: Disable Device (+1)
Skill: Open Lock (+1)
Skill: Search (+1)
Skill: Spot (+1)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+1)


Level 15 (Ranger)
Skill: Disable Device (+1)
Skill: Open Lock (+1)
Skill: Search (+1)
Skill: Spot (+1)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+1)
Feat: (Selected) Power Attack


Level 16 (Ranger)
Ability Raise: STR
Skill: Disable Device (+1)
Skill: Open Lock (+1)
Skill: Search (+1)
Skill: Spot (+1)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+1)


Level 17 (Ranger)
Skill: Disable Device (+1)
Skill: Open Lock (+1)
Skill: Search (+1)
Skill: Spot (+1)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+1)
Feat: (Favored Enemy) Favored Enemy: Elemental


Level 18 (Ranger)
Skill: Disable Device (+1)
Skill: Open Lock (+1)
Skill: Search (+1)
Skill: Spot (+1)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+1)
Feat: (Selected) Maximize Spell


Level 19 (Ranger)
Skill: Disable Device (+1)
Skill: Open Lock (+1)
Skill: Search (+1)
Skill: Spot (+1)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+1)


Level 20 (Ranger)
Ability Raise: STR
Skill: Disable Device (+1)
Skill: Open Lock (+1)
Skill: Search (+1)
Skill: Spot (+1)
Skill: Use Magic Device (+1)
Enhancement: Rogue Haste Boost I
Enhancement: Ranger Skill Boost I
Enhancement: Dwarven Axe Attack I
Enhancement: Dwarven Axe Attack II
Enhancement: Dwarven Axe Damage I
Enhancement: Dwarven Axe Damage II
Enhancement: Dwarven Constitution I
Enhancement: Dwarven Constitution II
Enhancement: Dwarven Spell Defense I
Enhancement: Dwarven Spell Defense II
Enhancement: Dwarven Spell Defense III
Enhancement: Ranger Item Defense I
Enhancement: Racial Toughness I
Enhancement: Racial Toughness II
Enhancement: Racial Toughness III
Enhancement: Racial Toughness IV
Enhancement: Ranger Favored Attack I
Enhancement: Ranger Favored Attack II
Enhancement: Ranger Favored Damage I
Enhancement: Ranger Favored Damage II
Enhancement: Ranger Favored Damage III
Enhancement: Ranger Favored Damage IV
Enhancement: Ranger Tempest I
Enhancement: Ranger Tempest II
Enhancement: Ranger Tempest III
Enhancement: Rogue Sneak Attack Training I
Enhancement: Ranger Devotion I
Enhancement: Ranger Devotion II
Enhancement: Ranger Devotion III
Enhancement: Ranger Devotion IV
Enhancement: Ranger Dexterity I
Enhancement: Ranger Dexterity II
Enhancement: Fighter Toughness I
Enhancement: Rogue Improved Trap Sense I

This one is a real winner. I personally would drop the con to 14 and dex to 13 to get 1 more Str. but that is a minor tweak and just a preference thing either way works. the Con with the dwarf adjustment on top of the higher start seems overkill to me. Yeah no such thing as too many HP but to give up the 20HP for the even str score after the 5 level ups to me is worth it. Pretty much what I recommend to any new player.
For a new player kopeshes are way to rare and expensive. With the dwarf axe line you swing the strater great axe for a long time and are still effective. then when you start swinging two axes you aren't locked into war axes. a good war axe and a battleaxe is fine. Heck even a handaxe is still sporting an x3 and is a light weapon , which at lower mid levels may times would be superior to a heavy off-hander and talk about cheap.

[unbongwah]

The armor check penalty (not proficiency penalty) is subtracted from the skill modifier, right?

Armor check penalty affects the following skills: Balance, Hide, Jump, Move Silently, Swim (double penalty), and Tumble. So stealth is affected; trap skills are not.

As for dumping Wisdom, you recommend using +1-6 Wisdom items to obtain access to my spells?

Correct.

[Werewolfzz]

I'm not sure who was giving you that impression, but if you plan to primarily use melee combat, Str is better, and yes you can be effective that way (speaking as a 28-point elf). Drow can certainly raise Dex more easily, but that doesn't make them more effective.

Dex gives you ranged attack bonus, reflex save bonus and AC bonus; if you want melee attack bonus as well it costs a feat. The reflex save bonus from good Dex is nice because you'll have evasion, but you can still get a very nice Dex without sacrificing level-up points. You can get +5 from enhancements and another +6 eventually from equipment, meaning you can have a 27 Dex without using any ability increases as you level. That's more than enough to give you good saves.

Str give melee attack bonus *and* melee damage bonus *and* range damage bonus (ranger automatic bow-strength feat). AC isn't useless, but building for it takes a lot of work and depends as much on gear as on stats, meaning high Dex alone won't help you avoid getting hit for very long. Str makes you much better in combat, because ultimately your role is to kill things.

Thank You! ... This post was very helpful in switching me over to doing just this... Use Ability Raises in STR all 5 times, but then also get the +5 Dex from the enhancements for Drow & Ranger!

Although, Unbongwah's version could forego armor and wear robes with that 26 Dex and max'd out UMD,... couldn't he?

[Werewolfzz]

Armor check penalty affects the following skills: Balance, Hide, Jump, Move Silently, Swim (double penalty), and Tumble. So stealth is affected; trap skills are not.

Wow... Thats Perfect! I shored up tumble and balance at the opening with the extra skill points so after the Fighter lvl, I wear Heavy Armor, and carry a Studded Leather spare just in case stealth is required... Nice!

[unbongwah]

Although, Unbongwah's version could forego armor and wear robes with that 26 Dex and max'd out UMD,... couldn't he?

Certainly, although even a STR-based ranger frequently gets their DEX high enough (thru enhs, tome, item, etc.) to exceed the MDB of light armor and switch to robes. Eventually the AC on this build lags behind and you'll chose your armor or robes based on its other properties, like DR, elemental resistance, etc.