Skirmisher

Fast and light, skirmishers are very capable warriors offensively-speaking. The skirmisher benefits from mobility, getting into range and out-maneuvering the enemy to repeatedly deal fair damage. In many respects, skirmishers are similar to lurkers, in that they depend on catching an enemy off-guard to be most effective in battle. But unlike the lurkers, skirmishers are more reliable, able to actively and effectively strike for Sneak Attack damage.
Skirmishers rely on their Acrobatics skill to twist and out-maneuver enemies, opening them up for sneak attacks. Unlike flankers, though, skirmishers are far worse team-players, unable to pass this benefit on to their allies. They do, however, benefit greatly from fighting alongside flankers who can set them up to strike for sneak attack damage. Skirmishers are usually melee warriors, and thus serve double-duty holding the line and striking for impressive damage. Even when unable to use Acrobatics to get the drop on their enemies, skirmishers are still somewhat passable, even if their offensive threat drops by about two PLs when they aren't making use of sneak attack. They go from great warriors to fair warriors in such occasions, but still have the defensive abilities to stay in melee with dangerous foes.
But beyond their decent defense, skirmishers are definitely on the fragile side. They suffer from low Fortitude and Will resistances, as well as a reduced toughness. Skirmishers just lack the staying power in a prolonged fight, so they really benefit from having tougher allies like brutes in the fight and support troops who can bolster their weak saves. bosses and enchanters are also extremely useful in this role of maximizing the survivability (and thus overall damage output) of the skirmishers.
Skirmishers are best used at the front line, but not alone. They're at their best when used to compliment other allies, adding their often impressive damage to the mix, or in the worst-case scenario (when unable to feint an opponent), acting as ever-so-slightly better grunts to just hold the line as long as possible.
==Skirmisher Progression==
==Common FX/Gear==
Damage (PL x ¾) (Extras: Mighty) (PL/2 + 1 cp)
==Sample Skirmishers==
* A nimble swordsman armed with a rapier
* A wily street-fighter who fights dirty
* Futuristic warriors with powerful energy swords
* Fast and light monsters with amazing leaping ability
* A martial artist specialized in quick and accurate blows
Category:Rulebook
Category:GMing
Category:NPCs
Category:NPC Archetypes