The Hero Within RPG 9: The Defender Class – Shields, Guardians, and Unbreakable Resolve

What makes a true Defender? Is it their impenetrable armor, their unwavering will, or their duty to protect others?

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In The Hero Within, the Defender is more than just a wall of steel—they are the steadfast guardians who stand between danger and those who cannot fight for themselves.

Whether through sheer endurance, tactical positioning, or self-sacrificing courage, Defenders shape the battlefield by controlling threats and ensuring their allies survive.

With three stages of progression, Defenders grow into legendary figures of resilience. But we want to hear from you! Should Defenders be pure tanks, battlefield tacticians, or something more? Let’s explore this together!

🔹 The Defender Class Progression

Defenders in The Hero Within are the last line of defense. Their journey unfolds as follows:

• Guardian (Stage 1): A reliable protector, capable of blocking attacks and drawing enemy focus.

• Protector (Stage 2): A seasoned warrior who specializes in damage mitigation and battlefield awareness.

• Sentinel (Stage 3): A legendary bulwark, nearly unbreakable, with unmatched defensive mastery.

Each stage enhances the Defender’s ability to shield allies, withstand punishment, and control enemy movement.

Community Question:

1. Should Defenders be able to specialize in protecting specific types of allies (mages, ranged fighters, etc.)?

2. What abilities or mechanics should define the ultimate Sentinel?

🛡️ Defensive Styles – How Should Defenders Control the Battlefield?

Defenders don’t just soak up damage—they shape combat by dictating enemy movement and protecting teammates. Some possible defensive styles include:

• The Shieldbearer – A master of absorbing blows, using a shield to defend themselves and others.

• The Warden – A battlefield controller, using stances and tactics to disrupt enemy advances.

• The Paragon – A self-sacrificing hero who redirects attacks meant for their allies.

• The Iron Wall – A slow-moving but nearly invulnerable force, impossible to bypass.

Community Question:

1. Should Defenders have multiple playstyles, or should they focus on one core defensive approach?

2. What kind of defensive abilities would make playing a Defender truly rewarding?

⚖️ Balancing Offense and Defense – Should Defenders Deal Damage?

One of the biggest debates for tank-style classes is whether they should be purely defensive or still have offensive capabilities.

Some possibilities:

• Pure Tank: Defenders have minimal offensive skills but are nearly indestructible.

• Counter-Attacker: Defenders strike back when attacked, turning enemy aggression against them.

• Control Fighter: Defenders use grapples, shield bashes, and knockbacks to keep enemies at bay.

Community Question:

1. Should Defenders have some offensive abilities, or should they focus entirely on protecting allies?

2. What mechanics could make a Defender feel useful even when they aren’t being attacked?

🛠️ Defender Mechanics – Should They Have Special Defensive Resources?

Defenders could rely on a unique defensive resource that determines how long they can withstand damage before needing to recover. Some ideas include:

• Guard Points: A pool of energy that allows Defenders to absorb or redirect attacks.

• Endurance System: Defenders grow weaker if they overuse their defenses without resting.

• Fortification Mode: An ability that locks the Defender in place, making them nearly invulnerable for a short time.

Community Question:

1. Should Defenders have a unique defensive resource, or should they rely purely on armor and hit points?

2. Should there be a risk-reward mechanic where Defenders become vulnerable after prolonged tanking?

🏆 Help Us Shape the Defender Class!

This is your chance to help define what true protection looks like in The Hero Within! We want to hear from you:

• Should Defenders be flexible or purely tank-focused?

• How should they control fights beyond just taking damage?

• What unique defensive abilities would make them fun and engaging?

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! 🛡️⚔️🔥

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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!