Jungle Amazon
by Charis

Class: Rogue
Tag: JAMZ

Introduction

Several among the Amazon nations feel that the traditional weapons of Axe and Bow are neglected for the Sword, and that the young Amazons grow sloppy with their tank-like AC's. Geographically, most live in the thickest jungle near rivers and hence are called "Jungle Amazons" (JAMZ) Compared to other Amazons they use spells much more often, are much more lightly armored, and do not abandon the axe (or bow) at higher levels. In fact, to maintain discipline and honed skills, their use is prescribed regularly.

Rules

Rather than repeat the (somewhat) (Somewhat?! -Lem ;) lengthy Amazon rules, I'll describe the differences and key restrictions.

As to weight and encumbrance, JAMZ's BASE Dex must be at least triple the Req'd STR of the Armor minus any +str modifier it has. For example, Dex is 30 (starting), so up to Hard Leather is ok. Another would be to have base Dex at 90, then up to Chain Mail (30 str), or Splint of Might (+10) is ok. Note that this restriction STILL applies to Royal JAMZs.

Discipline and efficiency are highly prized characteristics in the Jungle, and a special regime is maintained throughout her career. On pure melee levels, Axes or Mauls are used. On pure ranged levels, bows are used. And on mixed levels, swords are used. If a shield is used on a mixed level, she may not have resistances. (Exception: If Blackoak Shield is used, black Obsidian items may provide resistance.)

On all levels, magic is frequently used, especially against larger mobs. With this regime, the axe and mind stay sharp, the bowstring always taut, and a "block and blast" approach to tougher combos.

Items

Shields
Fast block shield may only be used with non-plate armor

Weapons
Bastard and Great Swords may not be used.
Machete's (daggers, short swords) are allowed for JAMZ's.
Battle Bows and Battle Axes are more traditional than Hunter's Bow.

Enchantments
Sorcery items allowed, and Wizardry after first dot

Uniques
Wizardspike is a favorite Machete.
JAMZ's do not scorn the Blackoak Shield and Bow, and will use or carry them with pride if found, not mule.

Spells

Used probably more often than swords, the power of nature unleashed is important to Jungle Amazons. They may learn the higher levels spells EARLY when a lower form is usually allowed (e.g. Warrior can learn ALL lightning attacks, not waiting until later for Chain). Also, in the jungle, they're not as much into fair fighting, so Fire Wall restrictions are lifted.

Quests

Spellbinder and Champion are allowed immediately after first dot, regardless of Magic and Vitality. Other than that, quests are the same, except JAMZ will have more contact with Drakes than witches. Fangspier (dlvl 11) is a required Cave boss, but Viperflame (dlvl 12) as another option. Fangskin, on 14, remains a required Hell boss.

Comments

This makes for a partially restricted variant, with the typical JAMZ being a low AC versatile rogue, with some levels like a Viking and some levels like an archer-mage. They cannot come to rely on any one weapon.