Need class/build suggestion for D&D newcommer

[3jack]

Hello,

Im new to the whole D&D universe but im not completely going in blind. As a 30+ gamer Im familiar with some of the lore and the basics of some classes. I've played games before with these elements, DA:O, Witcher, Skyrim and also DOS:2. After the panel I've come to learn more about the game and even after playing 40hrs into EA -- there 's more dynamic freedom than I've expected when it comes to making your character.

I've played a Rouge/human in my first run in EA and it was "okay" not really what I was expecting from the class, maybe because its just capped at lvl 5 but Its underwhelming in the combat aspect but outside combat; its utility was really good/useful (in dialogue and perception checks etc)

On Launch since all options are available, I can fully create the character I'm aiming for but need some advice which is the best way to approach this since I want to min max stuff as well.

I would like to play a human knight basically. Heavy ass armor, great sword (think Guts from Berzerk) heavy damage but also can tank without using a shield (non-magic user but can some range abilities). Im considering either Paladin or Fighter but dont know which one would be better or maybe there are other better options? Shadowheart & Gale will always be in my party regardless of any circumstances and maybe Wyll as well. Im basically just replacing lazel in her role. Astarion and Karlach will not be used much for first playthrough, I would really need some advice how to fill in the rouge role despite not actually having a rouge in the party or a pure damage class.

any suggestions would be appreciated, thanks!

[The1Kobra]

Here are my recommendations for a new character, I tried to make them as flexible as possible to cover a lot of bases, because there are going to be times the MC needs to handle things and you don't want to rely on party members:

1: Sylvan Elf Ranger - Folk Hero + Sanctified Slayer + Urban Tracker, 12/16/14/8/16/8. Defense style at L2. Hunter subclass at L3. This one's been my go-to build for a main character. Ton of skills, good at fighting, stealthing, and has half casting and can heal and speak with animals. Very strong all arounder.
2: Drow Bard - Charlatan + College of Valor: 12/16/14/8/8/16 Skill Expertise to Sleight of Hand and Perception to handle all your rogue needs. Handles all CHA skills. too. Another flexible all arounder with full casting. For early access it won't get the 2nd attack, but if the main game follows the standard rules the College of Valor bard will get a 2nd attack at L6 too, making this build strong in both combat and casting.

Both of these should be plenty combat capable and be able to get you through things. I might recommend the ranger for now but the bard should be very good for a run when the full game is out too.

[Foolswalkin]

Also, and I wish I were not this guy, but just if you're going to be posting in D&D contexts and given the number of threads that shall not be named that are currently rocking this forum:
- Rogue is the class, or a person who is either mischievous, dishonest, or corrupt.
- Rouge is french for "red," and in America along with "blush" is the common word for the red makeup applied to cheeks to make them look slightly flushed.
/mebeingapedant