Class diversity in D&D vs P:E

[Jigawatts]

 

Maybe I would like to play a more Aragorn style ranger (melee), but apparently rangers are shoehorned for ranged combat. D&D 3.5 and Pathfinder had that much better designed IMO.

IMO there's nothing particularly DnD-rangery about Aragorn. He doesn't dual-wield, doesn't use bows, and doesn't have an animal companion. He does have high charisma, rocks some healing skills, and kicks wraith ass, and he's obviously Lawful Good which would make him a paladin.

 

The 1st Edition AD&D Ranger is based pretty heavily on Aragorn (they dont get free dual-wielding or animal companions, they also aren't penalized for wearing heavy armor). The 2nd Edition Ranger on the other hand was far more Drizzt inspired, hence the dual-wielding.

 

Then again, to be fair, it could also be said that Aragorn DOES use a bow (though not as a primary weapon/fighting style), and DOES have an animal companion (remember his wild horsey friend that hated everyone until he came along and tamed him), also IIRC he does occasionally dual-wield his ranger sword with the elven dagger that is gifted to him.

Edited September 11, 2014 by Jigawatts