What Race is Good for Magus Pathfinder?
As a Magus in Pathfinder, you’re already a powerful force on the battlefield. With the ability to wield magic and strike from afar, you’re a threat to any foe. But, with the vast array of races to choose from, which ones are the best for your Magus? In this article, we’ll delve into the top races for Magus Pathfinder and discuss their pros and cons.
What Makes a Good Magus?
Before we dive into the top races, let’s identify what makes a good Magus. A Magus is a hybrid class, combining elements of both magicians and warriors. Therefore, the ideal race should complement this unique combination.
Strengths:
- Ability to deal ranged damage while also having martial prowess
- High Dexterity scores for increased evasion and agility
- Intelligent and adaptable, with spells to cast and tactics to employ
- Versatile and complex, with options for a wide range of build strategies
Weaknesses:
- Generally less robust than pure caster or warrior classes
- Vulnerability to area effect spells and mass attacks
- Limited at close range due to high spellcasting stat requirements
- Complexity and versatility come at the cost of sheer power
Top 5 RACES for Magus Pathfinder:
With these strengths and weaknesses in mind, let’s take a look at the top 5 races for Magus Pathfinder.
1. Elf
Elven Connection: Elves, with their natural affinity for magic and agility, are a natural fit for Magus. Intelligent and resourceful, elves excel at dishing out ranged damage with their arrows and spells.
Bonus: Elves also have the Wildemount bonus, granting a +1 bonus to saving throws, which is highly beneficial for Magus given their vulnerable nature.
Stats:
| Ability Scores | Elf |
|---|---|
| Str | 10 |
| Dex | 16 (+3) |
| Int | 14 (+2) |
2. Half-Elf
Half-Elven Connection: Half-Elves, a mix of human and elf, blend the best qualities of both. Fast and versatile, they combine the Magus’s strengths with some human durability.
Bonus: Half-Elves have Cunning Bloodline, providing a bonus to skill checks and an additional language slot.
Stats:
| Ability Scores | Half-Elf |
|---|---|
| Str | 12 |
| Dex | 15 (+2) |
| Int | 16 (+3) |
3. Aasimar
Aasimarian Connection: Aasimars, descended from angels, possess purity and resilience. Powerful and martially-minded, they suit the Magus’s warlike inclinations.
Bonus: Aasimars gain Resilience of Faith, gaining a bonus to saving throws against charms and illusions, which complements the Magus’s magical prowess.
Stats:
| Ability Scores | Aasimar |
|---|---|
| Str | 14 (+2) |
| Dex | 13 (+1) |
| Int | 14 (+2) |
4. Gnomish
Gnomish Connection: Gnomes, with their prankster inclinations and inventive nature, bring unpredictability and wit to the Magus.
Bonus: Gnomes possess Darkvision, a bonus to Perception, and Lucky, giving them rerolls on various checks.
Stats:
| Ability Scores | Gnome |
|---|---|
| Str | 12 |
| Dex | 16 (+3) |
| Int | 13 (+1) |
5. Hobgoblin
Hobgoblin Connection: Hobgoblins, with their keen senses and cunning tactics, are the warriors of chaos. Fey Ancestry, while not necessarily beneficial for a Magus, grants bonus to skills and saves.
Stats:
| Ability Scores | Hobgoblin |
|---|---|
| Str | 15 (+2) |
| Dex | 14 (+2) |
| Int | 10 |
In conclusion, Elf, Half-Elf, Aasimar, Gnomish, and Hobgoblin make excellent Magus Pathfinder, each contributing unique strengths to the build. While it’s difficult to pinpoint an absolute ‘best’ race, understanding the individual aspects of each race will guide your character creation and selection.
What do you think? Let us know your favorite race for Magus Pathfinder!