The Alchemist⁚ A Pathfinder Class Guide
This guide will help you build the best damn alchemist possible in Pathfinder. The Alchemist is a versatile class capable of filling a variety of roles‚ including blaster‚ healer‚ striker‚ and support. Their most iconic abilities are Bombs and Mutagen‚ but without some serious work‚ neither of these abilities is particularly useful. The point of this guide is to help you realize the alchemist’s potential and create a powerful and effective character.
Introduction
The Pathfinder Alchemist is a unique and fascinating class‚ renowned for its ability to harness the power of alchemy to create a wide range of potent concoctions. While the Alchemist might not possess the raw magical power of a traditional spellcaster‚ their mastery of alchemical formulas allows them to fill a variety of roles within a party. From blasting enemies with powerful bombs to bolstering allies with potent mutagens‚ the Alchemist can be a force to be reckoned with in any Pathfinder campaign. However‚ the Alchemist’s true strength lies in their versatility‚ allowing them to adapt to various combat situations and provide valuable support to their allies. This guide will delve into the intricacies of the Alchemist class‚ exploring its strengths‚ weaknesses‚ and the various strategies and builds that can be employed to make the most of this unique and potent class.
The Alchemist’s Versatility
The Alchemist’s versatility is one of their most defining characteristics. Unlike many other classes‚ the Alchemist is not limited to a single role or playstyle. They can be a devastating blaster‚ delivering powerful alchemical attacks from a safe distance. They can also be a potent healer‚ crafting restorative elixirs to mend their allies’ wounds. The Alchemist’s ability to create a wide variety of alchemical concoctions grants them the flexibility to adapt to any situation‚ making them a valuable asset in any Pathfinder party. Their ability to change their role on the fly based on the needs of the party is a testament to their versatility. Whether they are laying down a barrage of bombs‚ bolstering their allies with powerful mutagens‚ or providing a vital source of healing‚ the Alchemist can always find a way to contribute to the party’s success. This adaptability makes the Alchemist a truly unique and compelling class‚ capable of filling a multitude of roles in a Pathfinder campaign.
Key Abilities⁚ Bombs and Mutagen
The Alchemist’s signature abilities‚ Bombs and Mutagen‚ are the cornerstones of their unique playstyle. Bombs are the Alchemist’s bread and butter‚ allowing them to deal damage from a distance. These powerful alchemical concoctions come in a wide variety of flavors‚ from simple fire bombs to more exotic concoctions that inflict debilitating effects on their targets. The Alchemist’s ability to craft and throw these potent explosives makes them a formidable force on the battlefield. Mutagen‚ on the other hand‚ is a potent alchemical extract that grants the Alchemist temporary enhancements to their physical abilities. These powerful concoctions can increase the Alchemist’s strength‚ dexterity‚ or other attributes‚ enabling them to engage in melee combat‚ enhance their ranged attacks‚ or even become more resistant to damage. The Alchemist’s ability to control the battlefield with their bombs and enhance their own capabilities with mutagens makes them a truly powerful and flexible class in Pathfinder.
Attributes and Races
When choosing a race for your Alchemist‚ consider which attributes will best support their playstyle. Dexterity is a key attribute for Alchemists‚ as it determines their ability to throw bombs accurately and hit their targets with ranged attacks. Intelligence is also important‚ as it governs the Alchemist’s ability to craft new alchemical formulas and utilize their knowledge effectively. Races like Halfling and Human provide a bonus to Dexterity‚ making them strong choices for Alchemists who favor ranged combat. Meanwhile‚ races like Gnome and Half-Elf offer a bonus to Intelligence‚ making them well-suited for Alchemists who focus on crafting and research. Ultimately‚ the best race for your Alchemist depends on your desired playstyle and the specific strengths you want to emphasize.
Discovering New Formulas
Alchemists are constantly on the hunt for new and powerful formulas. They can learn these recipes through various means‚ including experimentation‚ acquiring them from other alchemists‚ or discovering them in ancient texts. As an Alchemist levels up‚ they gain access to higher-level formulas‚ expanding their repertoire of potent concoctions. These formulas can range from simple healing elixirs to devastating bombs and powerful mutagens. The Alchemist’s ability to discover and utilize new formulas is a key aspect of their versatility and power. They can tailor their arsenal to specific challenges and adapt to ever-changing situations‚ making them valuable assets to any party.
Feats and Traits
Alchemists have access to a variety of feats and traits that enhance their abilities and allow for greater customization. These feats and traits provide valuable benefits‚ ranging from increased potency of alchemical concoctions to improved combat prowess. Some notable feats include “Improved Precise Shot‚” which enhances ranged attacks‚ and “Weapon Finesse‚” allowing for the use of Dexterity instead of Strength for weapon attacks. Traits such as “Alchemist’s Apprentice” grant bonuses to crafting‚ while “Careful Alchemist” provides an extra measure of safety when handling volatile substances. By carefully selecting feats and traits‚ Alchemists can tailor their character builds to suit their preferred playstyle‚ whether it’s focusing on damage output‚ healing‚ or utility.
Extracts⁚ The Alchemist’s Power Source
Extracts are the lifeblood of the Alchemist‚ providing the raw magical energy that fuels their concoctions and abilities. These potent liquids‚ carefully distilled from rare and exotic ingredients‚ empower the Alchemist’s bombs‚ mutagens‚ and other alchemical creations. Extracts come in a variety of types‚ each offering unique benefits and drawbacks. Some extracts enhance offensive capabilities‚ boosting damage or inflicting debilitating effects‚ while others focus on defense‚ providing temporary boosts to armor class or granting resistance to specific damage types. The Alchemist’s choice of extracts directly influences their combat effectiveness‚ allowing for strategic adaptation to different situations. By carefully managing their extract supply and choosing the right ones for the task at hand‚ Alchemists can maximize their effectiveness in combat and unlock their full potential as masters of alchemical power.
Equipment and Multi-classing
Alchemists rely on a diverse array of equipment to support their alchemical endeavors. A well-stocked Alchemist’s kit includes an assortment of flasks‚ vials‚ beakers‚ and other containers for storing and mixing their potent concoctions. Specialized tools like mortar and pestle‚ scales‚ and retorts are crucial for precise ingredient measurement and preparation. Alchemists often carry a variety of alchemical items‚ such as bombs‚ elixirs‚ and poisons‚ ready to be deployed in combat or for utility purposes. While the Alchemist’s primary focus lies in alchemical prowess‚ multi-classing can enhance their capabilities and create unique builds. Combining Alchemist with classes like Rogue or Ranger allows for increased damage output and tactical flexibility‚ while pairing with classes like Cleric or Oracle provides access to healing and support spells‚ further bolstering the Alchemist’s versatility. By thoughtfully choosing their equipment and considering multi-classing options‚ Alchemists can tailor their character to their preferred playstyle and excel in a variety of roles.
Alchemist Builds⁚ Exploiting the Class’s Potential
The Alchemist’s versatility allows for a wide range of builds‚ each tailored to a specific playstyle and role within the party. For those who favor a direct‚ offensive approach‚ the Blaster build focuses on maximizing bomb damage and area-of-effect attacks‚ turning the Alchemist into a devastating force on the battlefield. The Striker build prioritizes close-combat prowess‚ utilizing Mutagens to enhance physical attributes and unleashing devastating melee attacks. If support and healing are preferred‚ the Healer build focuses on crafting potent elixirs and utilizing Mutagens to bolster allies’ health and resilience. The Support build‚ meanwhile‚ utilizes various alchemical concoctions and Mutagens to enhance the party’s abilities and provide tactical advantages. Alchemists with a penchant for cunning and trickery can opt for a “Bomber/Rogue” build‚ combining the explosive power of bombs with the stealth and cunning of a Rogue‚ allowing for ambushes and surprise attacks. Whatever the chosen build‚ the Alchemist’s potential is vast‚ offering an array of options to suit any player’s preferences and gameplay style.
Choosing an Alchemist Archetype
Alchemist Archetypes offer a diverse range of specializations‚ tailoring the class’s abilities to specific roles and playstyles. The Vivisectionist archetype transforms the Alchemist into a master of biological manipulation‚ gaining access to potent Mutagens and the ability to enhance their own physical capabilities. The Beastmorph archetype allows the Alchemist to transform into a monstrous creature‚ gaining powerful abilities and enhancing their physical prowess. For those who prefer a more traditional approach‚ the Grenadier archetype focuses on maximizing bomb damage and area-of-effect attacks‚ turning the Alchemist into a devastating force on the battlefield. The Munition Master archetype specializes in crafting and utilizing alchemical ammunition‚ enhancing the effectiveness of ranged weapons and providing a unique tactical advantage. The Alchemist’s choice of archetype significantly impacts their abilities and playstyle‚ allowing for a diverse range of approaches and strategies. Careful consideration of the archetype’s strengths and weaknesses‚ as well as the intended role within the party‚ is crucial for building an effective and enjoyable Alchemist character.
Research Fields⁚ Specializing in Alchemy
Research Fields represent the alchemist’s specialization within the vast field of alchemy. These fields provide a framework for the alchemist’s discoveries‚ guiding their research and influencing the types of alchemical items they can create. The Mutagenist field focuses on crafting potent Mutagens‚ enhancing the alchemist’s physical abilities and providing a unique tactical advantage. The Bomb Specialist field specializes in crafting powerful bombs and explosives‚ making the alchemist a formidable force in combat. The Potions Master field focuses on crafting potent elixirs and potions‚ providing a wide range of healing and support abilities. The Weapon Specialist field specializes in crafting alchemical ammunition and weapons‚ enhancing the alchemist’s ranged combat capabilities. The Alchemist’s choice of Research Field significantly shapes their capabilities and playstyle‚ allowing them to focus on specific areas of alchemical expertise. Careful consideration of the field’s strengths and weaknesses‚ as well as the intended role within the party‚ is crucial for building an effective and enjoyable Alchemist character.
The Role of Dexterity and Intelligence
Dexterity and Intelligence are crucial attributes for an Alchemist in Pathfinder. Dexterity influences the alchemist’s ability to throw bombs and other alchemical concoctions accurately‚ ensuring they reach their intended targets. A high Dexterity score grants the alchemist a better chance to hit their targets with ranged attacks‚ maximizing the effectiveness of their alchemical arsenal. Intelligence‚ on the other hand‚ fuels the alchemist’s ingenuity and understanding of alchemical formulas. A high Intelligence score allows the alchemist to discover new and powerful alchemical formulas‚ crafting more potent concoctions and unlocking unique abilities. Intelligence also governs the alchemist’s ability to craft alchemical items‚ ensuring they can create effective solutions for various situations. By prioritizing these attributes‚ the alchemist can maximize their effectiveness in combat‚ crafting‚ and exploration‚ becoming a valuable asset to any adventuring party.