There is a chance I have to DM few friends. They hardly know anything about D&D and co.; so starting from nothing Phoenix seems a great choice.
I guess around here is plenty of veteran D&D players, so you probably know the Shugenja from Complete Divine. Exactly as the monk also the shugenja is strongly presented as an ‘oriental’ class.
I agree with Kerrick that insisting that the monk is an oriental concept is nonsensical (e.g., pugilism and krav maga are famous martial arts that are not oriental at all.)
Similarly while real shugenjas are mostly from Japan the idea of people that think enlightenment is equated with attaining oneness with the the spirits or natural forces seems easily adaptable at any setting. It is, if you want, a more magic based druid.
I always liked the Shugenja class and I think it is a pity Phoenix has not one. What about making something? Of course I would be delighted if it becomes official, but it is enough something for my games.
So, I would like the idea of a new class that borrows a lot from the Sorcerer (at least BAB, Saving Throws, Spells Known, Spells Per Day, most of the Spell section), but:
- he casts divine spells;
- instead of heritage abilities has abilities connected to the favorite element;
Can you think a new class name? Shugenja is fine, but in my “career” I saw some people that dislike oriental flavor on purpose.
Lets the brainstorm begin.
Thanks everyone who participate.