The Crusader (Fighter)
Artwork Credit: https://boota.artstation.com/projects/24v0v
Many players wish to play a character similar to a paladin, with divine power that manifests in their battle prowess, but don’t want to play a character that can cast spells. They may find that a paladin is too magical for their desires, and of course a cleric is right-out. Other players want simple options for the fighter, seeking some variety for less-option-oriented players beyond just the Champion fighter. Our upcoming compendium, Legends of Prestige & Prowess, has the perfect answer for both of these kinds of players: the Crusader subclass for fighters, which infuses divine power into combat ability without relying on overt magic!
The Crusader fighter is intended to fill a thematic niche between regular fighters and paladins, for warriors who wield holy blessings without intentionally calling upon divine power. This fits characters who are blessed by divine forces but don’t knowingly channel divine magic. As such, the subclass is designed to supplement the existing abilities of the base fighter class instead of granting new ones. This also makes it a simpler option for players who don’t want to be overloaded with too many options or choices.
Like a paladin, the Crusader fighter has potent defenses against magical effects as well as all kinds of physical and mental ailments, and can even heal itself. Unlike a paladin, this fighter subclass has no methods for cleansing, healing, or directly aiding their allies — no Cleansing Touch, Lay on Hands, or Aura of Protection. Much like with the Deathless fighter subclass, the Crusader’s balance can be assessed by comparing its damage and healing output with a similar output from the Battle Master subclass.
