The Hero Within RPG 6: The Warrior Class – Strength, Honor, and Mastery

What makes a Warrior truly great? Is it raw power, strategic skill, or an unbreakable will?

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The Warrior is the backbone of any battlefield. They are the champions of might, the masters of combat, and the unshakable frontline defenders.

But in The Hero Within, a Warrior is more than just a fighter—they are a symbol of strength, resilience, and leadership.

With three stages of progression, Warriors can grow into legendary figures, each specializing in their own unique way. However, we want to hear from you! What makes a Warrior class fun to play? Should they be pure combatants, or should they have tactical depth? Let’s discuss this!

🔹 The Warrior Class Progression

Warriors in The Hero Within aren’t static—they evolve. Here’s how their path unfolds:

• Fighter (Stage 1): The foundation of all warriors. Skilled in weapons, combat maneuvers, and battlefield tactics.

• Champion (Stage 2): A seasoned fighter who has proven their mettle in war, gaining enhanced combat abilities and leadership skills.

• Warlord (Stage 3): A master of war, commanding the battlefield with superior tactics, raw might, and unstoppable presence.

Each stage enhances the Warrior’s durability, offensive power, and ability to control the flow of battle.

Community Question:

1. Do you like this tiered progression, or would you prefer a more flexible warrior path?

2. Should Warriors have access to tactical abilities beyond brute strength?

⚔️ Combat Styles – Should Warriors Specialize?

A Warrior isn’t just a generic fighter. They can develop unique combat styles that shape their approach to battle. Some examples include:

• The Juggernaut – A heavily armored force of destruction, absorbing damage while crushing foes.

• The Duelist – A precise, agile fighter who thrives in one-on-one combat.

• The Berserker – A relentless, rage-fueled warrior who becomes stronger as they take damage.

• The Tactician – A battlefield commander who uses strategy to control fights.

Community Question:

1. Should Warriors be able to mix combat styles, or should they commit to one path?

2. What combat styles do you think would be exciting to include?

🏋️‍♂️ Strength vs. Skill – What Should Define a Warrior?

Some games treat Warriors as pure powerhouses, relying on raw strength and endurance. Others allow for tactical play, where positioning and timing are just as important as brute force.

We’re considering a balance between strength and skill, where Warriors can either:

• Focus on raw power (crushing enemies with sheer might).

• Develop finesse and technique (precision, parrying, counterattacks).

Community Question:

1. Should Warriors be more than just damage-dealers? If so, how?

2. Should they have skills outside of combat, such as intimidation, leadership, or survival tactics?

⚖️ Warrior Balance – Too Strong or Just Right?

One of the biggest challenges in RPG design is ensuring Warriors feel powerful without being overpowered. If they’re too strong, they overshadow other classes. If they’re too weak, they feel underwhelming.

Possible balancing mechanics include:

• Endurance Limits: Warriors rely on stamina—powerful attacks drain their energy.

• Strategic Openings: Warriors must time their strikes carefully to maximize effectiveness.

• Vulnerability to Magic: Their physical strength is immense, but they may struggle against arcane foes.

Community Question:

1. What’s the best way to balance Warriors in a game?

2. Should they have weaknesses, or should they be adaptable to any situation?

🏆 Help Us Shape the Warrior Class!

This is your chance to influence how Warriors play in The Hero Within! We want to hear from you:

• What makes playing a Warrior exciting and engaging?

• Should they be flexible in combat, or should they have clear specializations?

• Are there any unique warrior abilities you’d love to see?

Drop your thoughts in the comments at LifeOfFiction.com and let us know what you think! Together, let’s build a progression system that truly reflects the hero’s journey! ⚔️🔥

Want to support this project?

You can help fund this project by becoming a yearly subscriber (best), buy Jaime a coffee, or even buy a book!

Want to get a taste of the world we’re creating?

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Would you like to participate in the live discussions?

We are developing a growing section of the The Fiction HUB for the TTRPG part of Life of Fiction. A place where we can meet in real time, via video and chat, and discuss these aspects together.

This is available to supporters of Life of Fiction.

If you’d like to be included, please send me a private message and I’ll keep you in the loop. We don’t have an established time yet and have to play it by ear…for now.

Thank you for your time and insights—your feedback is what helps bring The Hero Within to life!