****************************************************
NEVERWINTER NIGHTS
UNOFFICIAL DWARVEN DEFENDER CHARACTER BUILD GUIDE
For use with Hordes of the Underdark
(c)2004 Perrin Miller
Version: 1.0  Nov 2004
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This was written for submission to:
http://www.gamefaqs.com/
http://www.sorcerers.net/
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*                          TABLE OF CONTENTS                          *
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[1.0] Introduction
[2.0] Dwarven Defender Class Description
[2.1] Description
[2.2] Stats and Requirements
[2.3] Special Abilities
[3.0] Race Choices
[4.0] Ability Scores
[5.0] Weapon Choices
[6.0] Class Combinations
[6.1] Basic Classess
[6.2] Prestige Classes
[7.0] Skills
[7.1] Class Skills
[7.2] Cross-class Skills
[8.0] Feats
[8.1] Useful General Feats
[8.2] Optional Feats
[8.3] Feats To Avoid
[8.4] Useful Epic Feats
[9.0] Epic Levels
[10.0] Sample Characters
[10.1] Barbarian/Fighter/Dwarven Defender
[10.2] Bard/Red Dragon Disciple/Dwarven Defender
[10.3] Bard/Pale Master/Dwarven Defender
[10.4] Cleric/Fighter/Dwarven Defender
[10.5] Druid/Dwarven Defender
[10.6] Fighter/Weapon Master/Dwarven Defender
[10.7] Monk/Dwarven Defender
[10.8] Paladin/Fighter/Dwarven Defender
[10.9] Rogue/Fighter/Dwarven Defender
[10.10] Fighter/Dwarven Defender/Champion of Torm
[11.0] Final Thoughts
[12.0] Version History
[13.0] Credits
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*                         [1.0] INTRODUCTION                          *
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This is my second Character Guide for Neverwinter Nights (first
being one for the Champion of Torm prestige class).  I had so much fun
with the first one, I had to make a second.  If you notice any
similarities between the two guides, I did write them both and felt free
to plagerize myself.
This guide is written to examine the different possibilities of the
Dwarven Defender (DD) prestige class for Neverwinter Nights.  It was
mostly focused on the character development starting from 1st level
going through to about 24-28th level, on the assumption a player will
be using the character for any of the NWN campaigns or community
designed modules.  A specific section discusses epic levels and such.
The guide also assumes that a player reading it is planning
primarily a melee based character.  Let's face it; the Dwarven Defender
is a stalwart melee tank holding the front line against all enemies.
As a melee specialist, one doesn't obviously equate the DD as providing
a balanced build for the versatility of a solo, do everything adventurer.
Their special abilities are geared for taking a pounding and remain
standing.  Probably the most attractive ability is the Damage Reduction.
Dwarven Defenders can have great hit points, a solid AC, and not
sacrifice offense to get it.  For those people that believe the best
defense is a good offense; well a Dwarven Defender can have both.
As for powergaming, there are some definite possibilities of making
a Dwarven Defender to be one of the best melee machines.  Of course
trying to claim the title as "the number one heavy weight" can spark
plenty of debate, however there are definitely some solid arguments in
favor of Dwarven Defender builds being contenders.  However this guide
looks at playing the character from the start at level 1, not level 40,
and as such these considerations are looking at character maturity in
the early epic levels.  After examining the Champion of Torm class in
my first guide, I found that was the turning point.  Building characters
knowing they will max at level 20 is different than planning characters
that will go into epic levels.  And those first few Epic Feats can
really boost a character.  Likewise I am not spending a lot of time
looking at level 40 builds and comparing them, way too many
possibilities.
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*                  [2.0] DWARVEN DEFENDER DESCRIPTION                 *
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[2.1] Description
=================
The Dwarven Defender(DD) is one of the prestige classes introduced
in the Neverwinter Nights: Hordes of the Underdark (HotU) expansion set.
The manual describes the class:
"The defender is a sponsored champion of a dwarven cause, a dwarven
aristocrat, a dwarven deity or the dwarven way of life.  As the name
might imply, this character is a skilled combatant trained in the arts
of defense.  A line of dwarven defenders is a far better defense than
a 10-foot-thick wall of stone and far more dangerous."
Like all character builds, creating a Dwarven Defender requires at
least a little prior planning from the start to ensure a character is
eligible.  Taking levels as a Dwarven Defender will provide some unique
abilities that will build on the primary Ability Scores already
emphasized for most melee characters.  However to use these abilities
requires that the character play with certain style.  Dwarven Defenders
are probably going to want to stick with their prestige class through
10 levels and even beyond as the abilities continue to stack up.  When
Damage Reduction goes into epic levels and stacks with the Epic Damage
Reduction Feat (not hard to get for with the dwarven +2 bonus to
Constitution) many dwarves continue on with DD.  Also considering the
levels needed to gain the benefits, there are not really many strong
arguments to make DD a tertiary class in the first 20 levels and this
guide is not taking into account those considerations.
[2.2] Stats and Requirements
============================
Hit die: d12
Proficiencies: Armor (Light, Medium, Heavy), Shields, Weapons (Martial,
Simple)
Skill points: 2 + Intelligence modifier/level
Class skills: Concentration, Craft Armor, Craft Trap, Craft Weapon,
Discipline, Heal, Listen, Lore, Parry, Spot
Base Attack Bonus: uses Fighter table
Primary Saving throws: Fortitude, Will
Primary Ability: Strength
Alignment: Must be any lawful
Required Base Attack Bonus: minimum +7
Required Feat: Dodge, Toughness
[2.3] Special Abilities
=======================
[2.3.1] Defensive Stance(DD level 1)
------------------------------------
When the character needs to, they can vastly increase their combat
effectiveness.  In this defensive stance, they can bonuses but they
cannot move from the spot they are defending.  Bonuses include +2
Strength, +2 Constitution, +2 to all Saving Throws, and +4 dodge bonus
to AC.  At first level this ability can be used 1x/day.  Every 2 levels
beyond 1st, the DD gains an additional use per day (i.e. 3rd level
2x/day, 5th level 3x/day, etc.) that continues on into epic levels.
The ability lasts until the the character moves and breaks the stance.
Certain actions will also break the stance, such as changing weapons
and drinking potions.
[2.3.2] Defensive Awareness (DD level 1)
----------------------------------------
This feat allows the Dwarven Defender to keep their Dexterity
bonuses to AC even when caught flat-footed.  Other melee classes don't
get this benefit without having levels in a class that has Uncanny
Dodge.
[2.3.3] Damage Reduction III (DD level 6)
-----------------------------------------
With this feat, the character will be ignoring 3 points of damage
per hit whenever in combat.  The damage reduction is 3/-, meaning magic
weapons will not help to bypass.  This increases by 3 points every 4
levels of DD afterwards.  At 10th level it is 6/- and at 14th level DD
it is 9/-.  This can be stacked with other forms of damage reduction,
particularly Barbarian and Epic Damage Reductions.
[2.3.4] Defensive Awareness (DD level 6)
----------------------------------------
With this feat the character cannot be flanked, helping to provide
some immunity to sneak attacks.  This is definitely useful, but I have
heard that it may not help against ranged sneak attacks.
[2.3.5] Defensive Awareness (DD level 10)
-----------------------------------------
At level 10, the Defensive Awareness provides a +1 Saving Throw
bonus versus traps.  This little bonus helps the Reflex Saving Throw
which is not a primary Savign Throw for DD.
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*                         [3.0] RACE CHOICES                          *
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As the name implies this character will be a dwarf, no other option.
Being a dwarf provides a +2 Constitution Bonus and the cost of a -2
Charisma penalty.  Since Dwarven Defenders are at least dual-classed by
nature, dwarves favored class of Fighter may need to be considered in
some builds.  Fortunately Fighter class is a common class used in multi-
class melee builds.  Dwarves also have Darkvision, skill bonuses for Lore
and Search, Saving Throw bonuses versus Spells and Poison, and combat
bonuses versus some monster types (orcs, goblinoids and giants).
Overall these compliment melee character builds pretty well.  Those
people who normally prefer humans will miss the extra feat and skill
points though.
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*                         [4.0] ABILITY SCORES                        *
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Most pure melee specialists concentrate on Strength and
Constitution.  However Dwarven Defenders need at least a Dexterity of
13 for the Dodge Feat.  For most people this is not a big deal as a
Dexterity of 12 is pretty standard for most characters planning to run
around in heavy armor.  However with Dwarven Defenders only getting 2
skill points per level, many may prefer to at least put some points into
Intelligence.   As for Wisdom and Charisma, importance really depends on
the basic class used to make up the Dwarven Defender.
Sample initial Ability Scores are provided when examining the class
combinations that are focused on being a Dwarven Defender eventually.
Ability scores for multi-classed characters that are using Dwarven
Defender levels as their tertiary minor class would really depend on
the primary class the build is centered on and not really reflected in
the sample Ability Scores or this guide in general.
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*                         [5.0] WEAPON CHOICES                        *
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Weapon choice is really going to come down to personal preference.
From a role-playing perspective dwarves would appear to favor axes and
hammers.  Dwarven Defenders have access to both Simple and Martial
Weapon Proficiencies.  However many people like to take the Exotic
Weapon Proficiency to allow use of the Dwarven Waraxe.  Why dwarves are
not allowed this proficiency for free is beyond me, elves get proficiency
in longswords and bows.  Anyway, unless multi-classing with Weapon Master
this is really not a huge decision and more personal preference.
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*                       [6.0] CLASS COMBINATIONS                      *
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Since Dwarven Defender is a prestige class, the character will have
to have at least one other class to start with.  Any class, or dual-
class combination, that emphasizes melee combat can gain by becoming a
Dwarven Defender.  However as stated before the abilities don't really
come into maturity until investing significant levels.  Initially the
guide covers the basic classes and then the other prestige classes,
discussing how the Dwarven Defender levels will mix with that particular
class.  Multi-class combinations are covered where appropriate, but not
a lot of focus is spent on using DD as a tertiary minor class.  For some
classes, sample starting Ability Scores with the racial adjustments
already applied are provided for consideration and covered in more
detail in the Sample Characters Section.
[6.1] Basic Classes
===================
[6.1.1] Barbarian
-----------------
Normally the alignment restrictions of Barbarians (any non-lawful)
and Dwarven Defenders (any lawful) would prevent this combination from
being viable, but it can be done using certain modules and tweaking the
character's alignment.  However, the Barbarian's special abilities are
designed to increase survivability and delivery of heavy punishment.
Using the class as the primary base class has its advantages for any
good melee specialist with extra hit points (1d12 vs. 1d10) for each
level.  The Barbarian Rage always helps and can stack with Defensive
Stance when used beforehand.  With Defensive Awarness, Uncanny Dodge
is a little redundant initially.  Even though Barbarians also get
Damage Reduction, the DD's will be better.  However they both will
stack together, which may be of consideration when Barbarians are
taking enough levels to get the Greater Rage.  Combining with some
levels of Fighter, can make a decent melee character and once finished
with the initial Barbarian levels, a roleplayer would then not have to
worry about having to stay non-lawful.  Here are some sample starting
Ability Scores for a Barb/Ftr/DD combination:
STR: 16   DEX: 14   CON: 17   WIS: 10   INT: 12   CHA: 6
Pretty good mix on Strength and Consitution.  Intelligence is at 12
to gain that extra skill point per level so the character can continue
to invest in 3 good skills when taking DD and Fighter levels.
Dexterity is raised up to 14 to gain the little extra to Reflex Saving
Throws and because there really is no other beneficial place to put it
that extra point if Dexterity is left at 13.  Wisdom is at 10 to keep
from getting a penalty for Will Saving Throws and Charisma is
completely ignored.  See the Sample Characters Section for more
details.
[6.1.2] Bard
------------
Like Barbarians, Bards also have the same problem with the
alignment restrictions being incompatible.  However those people that
want to, can get around it.  Bards are not really a melee class, being
arcane spellcasters, but they are more suited to melee combat than
Sorcerers and Wizards.  Disadvantages to overcome are the medium BAB
progression (takes level 10 to get BAB +7), lower hit points (1d6),
and missing Martial Weapon and Heavy Armor Proficiencies.  Bards do
make good "jack-of-all-trades" adventurers for those solo adventurers.
They also have some special abilities that can help boost their melee
prowess; class skills of Tumble (AC bonus), Spellcraft (saves versus
spells), and Use Magic Device (scrolls and class specific items), Bard
Song, and access to 2nd level buff spells (Bull's Strength and Cat's
Grace).  However the Bard also uses Charisma and cannot neglect it if
planning to cast spells or using Bard Song. However Bard's can be used
to multi-class with two other prestige classes that can offer some
interesting possibilities; Red Dragon Disciple and Pale Master.  See
those sections for more details.  Here is the starting sample Ability
Scores for the Bard/DD combinations:
STR: 14   DEX: 14   CON: 16   WIS: 10   INT: 12   CHA: 12
The Strength is started out lower but will be able to buffed with
the Bull's Strength spell.  Constitution is pretty good to help make up
for the lower hit points for the Bard levels.  The Dexterity is at 14
instead of 13 to gain a little extra for the Reflex Saving Throw, and
that extra point cannot really be used to boost Strength or Constitution
instead.  The Intelligence is at 12 for the extra Skill Point per level.
See Sample Characters Section for more details on the two different
Bard/DD combinations.
[6.1.3] Cleric
--------------
Clerics and Dwarven Defenders can go well together.  They are more
melee-oriented than Bards; they have more spells (which are able to be
cast in full armor) and some complementary special abilities depending
on the Domains chosen.  A few things to overcome are the medium BAB
progression (takes level 10 to get BAB +7) and reliance on Wisdom and/or
Charisma.  However the advantages can more than even out the negative.
Cleric's have access to many long duration buffing spells that can help
them increase their abilities.  There are also aquite a few short
duration spells that can help as well.  The Divine Might and Divine
Shield Feats are definitely another added plus if the Charisma is high
enough which is definitely possible with Eagle's Splendor and magic
items.  Adding in some levels in a third melee class can really round
them out; Fighter (Weapon Specialization) or Monk (free Cleave and
Evasion, Tumble as a class skill).  Here is some sample starting Ability
Scores for a Cleric/Fighter/DD combination:
STR: 14   DEX: 13   CON: 14   WIS: 13   INT: 12   CHA: 12
Pretty average start, but as a Cleric this character will have
access to some decent buffing spells to help Strength, Constitution,
and Charisma fairly quickly.  During the early level-ups Wisdom should
be increase to 14 to gain that extra second level buffing spell.  See
Sample Characters for a more detailed build of the Cleric/Fighter/DD
combination.
[6.1.4] Druid
-------------
Compared to Clerics, Druids are kind of a poor substitute when
only taking  few levels, but over the longer run they offer different
possibilities.  They have the same disadvantages of medium BAB
progression and reliance on Wisdom,  limited initial weapon selection,
and no Heavy Armor Proficiency at the start.  They do have access to
buffing spells, but not nearly as many a Clericbut, they don't have as
much need for Charisma, and no Domain special spells.  Some of the best
abilities of Druids are really dependent upon Druid levels and can be
really watered down when sacrificed for the Dwarven Defender levels.
However when considering level 40 characters, a shape shifter Druid
with high Damage Reduction could be interesting.  In the level range
this guide is covering, the  Druids are probably better off mixing with
a few levels of Monk, Fighter, and of course the Shifter prestige class
instead.  However here are some example starting Ability Scores for a
Druid/DD combination:
STR: 15   DEX: 14   CON: 17   WIS: 14   INT: 10   CHA: 6
Not a bad start.  Strength is a little lower, but will be buffed
fairly early with the Bull's Strength spell.  During level-up points
will need to be spent on Wisdom gain access to higher level spells.
Dexterity is at 14 to gain the extra bonus to Reflex Saving Throws.
Intelligence is at 10 since Druids get 4 Skill Points per level.  See
Sample Characters for a more detailed build of the Druid/DD combination.
[6.1.5] Fighter
---------------
The Fighter is the basic tank class, with the advantages of plenty
of bonus feats and Weapon Specialization.  Fighters have no special
Ability Score requirements that would conflict with Dwarven Defenders
and a such can spend more on Strength and Constitution.  However after
obtaining Weapon Specialization at Fighter level 4, there are only more
bonus feats and often other classes can offer some extra abilities more
worth while.  Using the extra feats can make a good combination with
Weapon Master.  Here is the sample starting Ability Scores for this
combination:
STR: 16   DEX: 13   CON: 17   WIS: 10   INT: 13   CHA: 6
Starting Strength and Consititution look pretty good.  Dexterity
and Intelligence are both at the minimum needed for Weapon Master and
Dwarven Defender.  Optionally a point could be taken from either
Strength or Constitution to boost both to 14 to take advantage of an
extra Skill Point and the extra Reflex Savign Throw bonus, but Weapon
Master levels will provide an increase to Reflex Saving Throws anyway
and the extra Skill Point may not be missed.  Wisdom is set at 10 to
keep from causing a penalty to Will Saving Throws and Charisma is
completely ignored.  See Sample Characters Section for more details.
[6.1.6] Monk
------------
Monks are not really great for multi-classing, except as a minor
tertiary class.  Monks use the same Ability Scores but also need Wisdom.
With all of the special feats and abilities, Monks are possibly better
off staying a single-classed character through level 20, and giving DD a
pass in the lower levels, but when considering epic characters dwarven
monks could sacrifice their Monk progression for the extra BAB
progression and gaining the Dwarven Defender special abilities.
However this combination would still consider the Dwarven Defender
levels as secondary and ultimately want to get all 20 levels of Monk
for those special abilities at levels 18 and 20.  Here are same starting
Ability Scores for the Monk/DD combination:
STR: 16   DEX: 14   CON: 16   WIS: 14   INT: 10   CHA: 6
Not a bad start.  Dexterity and Wisdom are both at 14 to take
advantage of their benefits to AC and balanced to use starting points
efficiently.  This build is still going to be running around without
armor.  Intelligence is at 10 as Monk receive four Skill Points per
level.  During level-up, Ability Score increases will probably depend
on preferences and items.  If going for Epic Damage Reduction then most
points would go towards Consitution as expected.  See Sample Characters
for a more detailed build of the Monk/DD combination.
[6.1.7] Paladin
---------------
The dwarven Paladin suffers from the racial penalty to Charisma
which is most important for some of the Paladin's main advantages.
Likewise they would also suffer from some average ability scores needing
to spread points over almost all six attributes.  Normally Paladin's
stats are pretty average to begin with, but not being human and Dwarven
Defenders needing some Dexterity really strain them further.  A dwarven
Paladin would certainly benefit from diverting into the Dwarven Defender
track to gain the Damage Reduction which is nice as most Paladin builds
have a difficult time getting Epic Damage Reduction.  If the dwarven
Paladin is not looking to really push Charisma for effective Divine
Might and Shield, the combination might be better off treating Paladin
as a tertiary class to gain a few key special abilities such as Divine
Grace, Divine Health and Aura of Courage.  Of course being a Paladin
in SOU means using the Holy Avenger as well.  Here is some sample
starting Ability Scores for a split Paladin/Fighter/DD build:
STR: 14   DEX: 13   CON: 15   WIS: 12   INT: 12   CHA: 12
Ability Scores are pretty average using the racial bonus to at
least push Constitution above 14.  Wisdom is at 12 for that extra bonus
to Will Saves and the bonus 1st level Paladin Spell.  Dexterity is left
at 13 in favor of putting the extra point into Constitution.
Intelligence is at 12 to gain the extra Skill Point.  Charisma is at
the highest it can be without needing to spend double points to raise
and the bonus will help boost all Saving Throws.  See Sample Characters
Section for more details.
[6.1.8] Ranger
--------------
Considering the Ranger as the base class is probably the least
attractive of the basic melee classes.  Diverging from a pure Ranger
path starts limiting the animal companion, Ranger spells, and number
of favored enemies.  I don't think rangers really make a good tertiary
class for strong melee tanks as Rangers are more suited to hit and run
tactics.  However a dwarven Ranger would like the benefits of a Dwarven
Defender, mainly Damage Reduction, but if a player is playing a Ranger,
they will probably want to stick with it and Dwarven Defender levels
don't really offer much with only a few levels.  A dual-wielding DD
would be better off sticking with Fighter levels and picking up the
feats that way, rather than using light armor and Ranger levels.
Getting the Bane of Enemies Epic Feat for the five or more Favored
Enemies of the 21st level Ranger is what makes the class attractive.
A split Ranger/DD at 10/10 would still have to wait until 31st level
to get Bane of Enemies.  I would probably not combine these classes in
the pre-epic levels.
[6.1.9] Rogue
-------------
The Rogue is really not a melee class, and probably would not make
the best choice as the primary base class for multi-classing with the
Dwarven Defender prestige class.  Rogues already have two other
prestige classes they combine with much better.  However, taking Rogue
levels as a tertiary class would offer some attractiveness; sneak
attacks for extra damage, significantly more skill points, access to
the class skills of Tumble (AC bonus) and Use Magic Device (scrolls and
class specific items), and the class feat of Evasion.  For those solo
adventurers, having the luxury of more skill points allows them to have
more skill levels in handy rogue class skills (like Search and Open
Lock) without having to pay the cross-class penalties.  Here are some
sample starting Ability Scores for a Fighter/Rogue/DD combination:
STR: 16   DEX: 14   CON: 18   WIS: 10   INT: 10   CHA: 6
Good ability score distribution, just keeping Wisdom from being a
negative and not worrying about Charisma at all.  Dexterity is at 14
for the extra bonus to Reflex Saves which will be benefiting from the
Rogue levels as well, but also Dexterity based skills from the Rogue
levels will get that extra boost.  Intelligence is left at 10 compared
to other builds, because Rogue levels will provide extra Skill Points.
See Sample Characters Section for more details.
[6.1.10] Sorcerer
-----------------
Sorcerer as a primary class for a melee character wouldn't be too
attractive.  Reliance on Charisma and the penalty would mean spending
more on Charisma during start-up.  Also as a melee class the low BAB
progression hurts.  If you were building a Sorcerer/Red Dragon Disciple,
you probably would be better off with a Bard combination instead.  If
using Sorcerer to make a melee RDD build, the combinations are better
off taking Fighter or Paladin levels instead.  To meet the +7 BAB
requirement would just take too long and I really don't like any melee
character build that has to give up 4 attacks per round.   Sorcerers are
better off combining with something else or staying single-classed.
[6.1.11] Wizard
---------------
Wizards suffer from some of the same disadvantages of Sorcerers,
but cannot combine with Red Dragon Disciple.  Since Wizards don't use
Charisma, dwarves can more readily afford the Intelligence to make
Wizards viable.  However taking levels of Wizard as a tertiary class
to pick up a few spells has some disadvantages that are probably not
worth the bother; low BAB progression and trying to cast arcane spells
in armor.  A Dwarven Defender would be much better off with Cleric
levels instead for those same buffing spells and casting them as divine
instead.  However, if using Wizard to go the Pale Master route and then
adding Dwarven Defender, there are some interesting advantages from the
Pale Master class.  However Pale Masters can be made from Bards as well,
see the Pale Master Section below.
[6.2] Prestige Classes
======================
Since all prestige classes rely on a basic class to start, some
multi-class combinations are not possible or practical when building a
Dwarven Defender.  However there are some interesting possibilities
combining two prestige classes and reaping the benefits of both.  Most
builds are going to carry into the epic levels to reach maturity in the
special abilities because it is impossible to take 20 levels of prestige
classes before reaching level 25.
[6.2.1] Arcane Archer
---------------------
This combination is not possible as Arcane Archers have to be either
Elven or Half-Elven.
[6.2.2] Assassin
----------------
Like the Rogue, the assassin gets bonus damage from sneak attacks.
However the skill requirements would likely make this combination a non-
event.  Dwarven Defenders based on Rogue/Assassin route would not want
to diverge from that path long enough to get the Damage Reduction.  Also
playing styles are different and don't necessarily compliment each other.
Strictly speaking you can combine them, but there is no real advantage
for the DD build.  I would consider the Fighter/Rogue build instead; see
the Rogue Section above.
[6.2.3] Blackguard
------------------
Blackguards are like the fallen-Paladin and could combine with
Dwarven Defenders.  For some of the Blackguard benefits, the character
will require some investing in Charisma, but that is really no different
than the Paladin.  Meeting the Hide Skill requirement would not be easy
without sacrificing something.  But the BAB and Cleave Feat requirements
are not a problem.  The Blackguard offers a few special abilities that
are attractive at level 2; Bull's Strength and Dark Blessing.  However
the other abilities (Create Undead and Summon Fiend) require more
commitment to the class to be useful in the long run.  As for the sneak
attack is doesn't come as fast as it does for Rogues and a Dwarven
Defender that would want it should consider the Fighter/Rogue/DD
combination instead.  In the epic levels, Blackguards might want to
consider Dwarven Defender levels to gain the Damage Reduction, but
really it is not a primary Dwarven Defender build.  A lawful evil
Fighter/DD combination could take 2 levels of Blackguard to get Bull's
Strength and Dark Blessing, but spending 6 points to make Charisma 12
is at the expense of other scores and Bull's Strength as an ability is
probably not worth it when potions are readily available.
[6.2.4] Champion of Torm
------------------------
The Champion of Torm is another good melee character on its own.
Some of the Champion of Torm abilities don't easily mesh well as dwarves
take a hit with the -2 Charisma penalty, but the bonus feats and Sacred
Defense are not dependent on Charisma.  CoT also have a +7 BAB
requirement and Dwarven Defenders would be reluctant to sacrifice DD
levels for CoT level.  Without investing in Charisma and significant CoT
levels, Smite Evil, Lay on Hands, and Divine Wrath are not really too
useful.  However even a few CoT levels can be worked in and strengthen
a Fighter/DD build.  Here are the sample starting Ability Scores:
STR: 16   DEX: 14   CON: 17   WIS: 10   INT: 12   CHA: 6
As you can see they are the same as a few of the other Fighter
based builds.  See the Sample Characters Section for more details on
this build.
[6.2.5] Harper Scout
--------------------
The Harper Scout is more a pure role-playing class and is limited to
only five levels, leaving them as a possible tertiary class.  The Harper
Scout requirements for the Iron Will and Alertness Feats are probably
not high on the priority list for Dwarven Defenders builds and can be
tough to get without using bonus feats from Fighter levels.  The skill
requirements can be challenging depending on the starting basic class
but they are not necessarily wasted.  Taking levels in Harper Scout
bring the following advantages to the character; Tumble (AC bonus) as a
class skill, special abilities that provide bonus to Saving Throws, and
two 2nd level buffing spells as class abilities.  However, these
advantages can be also found other ways, without taking the penalties of
lower hit points and medium BAB progression.  Except from a role-playing
perspective, I'd recommend giving it a pass.
[6.2.6] Pale Master
-------------------
Pale Master is an enhancement for arcane spellcasters; and it does
offer a few melee-oriented advantages.  The attractive abilities include;
Bone Skin (AC bonuses), Deathless Vigor (+3 HP/level), Tough as Bone
(immunities), and Deathless Mastery (immune to critical hits).  However
as a pure melee character it may not necessarily be worth the investment.
Considering the requirement for a Pale Master to have at least level 3
arcane spellcasting, you are looking at some serious investment in a
non-melee class.  The slow BAB progression of Wizards, Sorcerers, and
Pale Masters mean a +7 BAB at level 14 soonest and a maximum of 3
attacks per round.  However, with Bard it would only take until level
7 to learn 3rd level spells and switch to Pale Master at level 8.
Bards also require significant investment in Charisma.  You would have
to work around the Bard's alignment issue and be either lawful neutral
or evil.  Bards use the medium BAB progression, have 1d6 hit points per
level, and some decent class skills.  Switching over to Pale Master
would slow BAB progression to the lowest level but Dwarven Defender would
be possible at level 11.  The Dwarven Defender could still have a +17
BAB at level 20 for 4 attacks per round and then continue to advance
Pale Master for those attractive special abilities up to 10th level
during epic levels when BAB progression is the same accross the board.
See the Bard Section above for the starting Ability Scores.  At level-
up Charisma will have to be raised to at least 13 for casting 3rd level
spells.  See Sample Characters Section for more details on the
Bard/PM/DD combination.
[6.2.7] Red Dragon Disciple
---------------------------
Red Dragon Disciple is a melee-oriented option for Sorcerers and
Bards; as such it can make a good combination with Dwarven Defenders.
The Draconic Abilities for increasing Ability Scores (STR+8, CON+2,
INT+2, & CHA+2) and the additional AC bonuses are very attractive to
all players that enjoy melee characters.  Once overcoming the alignment
incompatibility, the Bard/RDD/DD combination is a viable option.  The
build would take some time to reach maturity and be a weak melee fighter
at the lower development levels.  However, balancing the advancement
properly to get a +16 BAB at level 20 and saving some skill points to
maximize certain skills when taking the 6th level of Bard can see a
potent melee character at level 26 being a Bard-6/RDD-10/DD-10.  There
may be other RDD combinations that are better but RDD with good damage
reduction can be very attractive.  See the Bard Section for some
starting sample Ability Scores and the Sample Characters Section for
the Bard/RDD/DD combination:
[6.2.8] Shadowdancer
--------------------
The Shadowdancer prestige class is all about sneaking around which
is kind or hard to do wearing full plate armor.  Meeting Shadowdancer
requirements without starting as either a Rogue or Ranger is very
difficult with limited skill points and spending them cross-class will
take longer make the minumum levels.  Singly both of those basic
classes are not good choices for Dwarven Defender combinations, see
those two sections.  A Fighter/Shadowdancer build would be probably
enjoy the Damage Reduction, but I just don't see the playing styles
being too compatitable.  Like Assassins, Shadowdancers would be better
off staying away from DD levels and picking a different combination.
[6.2.9] Shifter
---------------
Shifters start out as Druids, and really cannot afford to sacrifice
shifter or Druid levels to gain the Dwarven Defender abilities.  Once
going Shifter the character would be looking at either splitting 10/10
with Druid or adding in a tertiary class with a few levels that would
really provide more benefits with a lower investment, like Monk or
Fighter.  Don't see much interest in pre-epic Druid/Shifter/DD
combinations.
[6.2.10] Weapon Master
----------------------
This is an excellent match for any melee-based character that can
afford the requirments.  More offensive power combined with an already
strong defense.  To really meet the Weapon Master's many feat
requirements the most viable combination is go with the Fighter class
at start.  The dwarven Fighter could start on DD at 8th level and start
mixing in WM levels once the requirments are met.  To really reach
maturity the build would carry to about 25th level to have 10 DD levels
and 7 WM levels.  See the Fighter Section above for the starting
Ability Scores and the Sample Characters Section for more details on
this combination.
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*                                                                     *
*                            [7.0] SKILLS                             *
*                                                                     *
***********************************************************************
[7.1] Class Skills
==================
[7.1.1] Concentration
---------------------
This skill is useful when combining with spellcasting classes that
are needing to cast spells in combat.  However with other skills being a
higher priority, this will likely get ignored.
[7.1.2] Craft Armor
-------------------
Dwarven Defenders are all about melee combat.  With only 2 base
skill points per level there too few points to waste in the crafting
area.  Almost all DD characters will be giving the crafting skills a
pass.
[7.1.3] Craft Trap
------------------
See Craft Armor above.
[7.1.4] Craft Weapon
--------------------
See Craft Armor above.
[7.1.5] Discipline
------------------
The most important skill for any melee character is Discipline.
This skill helps resist combat feats such as Knockdown, Disarm and
Called Shot.  All melee characters will frequently find themselves on
the front lines, often surrounded, they definitely need this skill.
Can't be a good defender while lying flat on your back.
[7.1.6] Heal
------------
Heal is a decent skill, as it increases the effectiveness of
healing kits.  However, if the adventures are plentiful in various
healing potions and such for loot; then it becomes increasing less
important.  A few points can't hurt and can make a difference when
using the healing kits to cure disease and poison.  With skill points
at a premium it can be sacrificed, or only given slight attention.
[7.1.7] Listen
--------------
Listen is skill that really depends on the adventure or module
being played.  If the enemy is making frequent use of the stealth
skills (Hide and Move Silently), then this skill is useful.  However
in the original campaigns I have gotten by without it.  Magic items
and spells can compensate.  Considering at higher levels the stealthy
rogues are going to have high stealth skills and probable magic
augmentation, most DD will not have the skill points to keep Listen at
sufficient level.
[7.1.8] Lore
------------
Lore can save you money getting items identified, and allow you to
use newfound items immediately.  A few Rings of Scholars can also be
equipped to significantly augment the ability and save some skill
points.  Also dwarves have a racial bonus as well.  However, only
spending a few points doesn't really help without the items to boost
it.  If you are going to rely on it, some investing is going to be
required.  The choice really depends on the adventures and modules you
are playing.  If money is not a problem then it may not be necessary to
have more than a few points in this skill.
[7.1.9] Parry
-------------
Personally, I have never put any points into Parry.  With the
playing style of a Dwarven Defender, some may find it more useful as
the DD will be looking to outlast their opponents rather than relying
on quick kills.  Really it may be personal preference.
[7.1.10] Spot
-------------
Like Listen Spot is another skill that really depends on the
adventure or module being played.  If the enemy is making frequent use
of the stealth skills (Hide and Move Silently), then this skill is
useful.  However in the original campaigns I have gotten by without it.
Magic items and spells can compensate.  Considering at higher levels
the stealthy rogues are going to have high stealth skills and probable
magic augmentation, most DD will not have the skill points to keep Spot
at sufficient level.
[7.2] Cross-class Skills
========================
Spending points in the other cross-class skills really depends on
what other classes the DD has in combination.  Decisions to spend on
cross-class skills may be influenced by saving the points to spend when
taking levels in classes where the skill is no longer cross-class.
Everything really depends on the build itself.  However some of the
cross-class skills are useful to the Dwarven Defender, and should be
considered, even when having to spend double points to increase their
levels.
[7.2.1] Search
--------------
If this skill is not a class skill in the DD combination’s other
classes then most likely the character will be investing points here
anyway.  All adventurers benefit from being able to see traps before
walking into them and it is necessary to find secret doors.
[7.2.2] Spellcraft
------------------
If the character is not multi-classing with a spell-caster class,
then this will be a cross-class skill.  Even if not casting spells, the
bonuses to saves versus spells for every 5 levels in this skill (before
modified) make it worthwhile when affordable.  Combined with the racial
bonus makes even a small bonus worthwhile.  However, with skill points
at a premium, the choice will likely come down to priorities.
[7.2.3] Tumble
--------------
Tumble is one of those skills that every melee character needs.
For every 5 levels of this skill (before modified) the character gets
a +1 AC Dodge bonus.  Unfortunately most melee characters will have to
spend points on Tumble as a cross-class skill.  Getting level 5 or 10
is usually the best one can do unless you know you character is going
to get to level 27 and be able to get 15 levels in the skill.
***********************************************************************
*                                                                     *
*                             [8.0] FEATS                             *
*                                                                     *
***********************************************************************
When meeting the requirements for a Dwarven Defender, there are two
required feats, Dodge and Toughness.  Both of those feats are definitely
useful for melee-character builds.  After that, feat selections really
depend on personal preferences and the build combination.  Certain feats
are definite priorities for certain builds and all melee characters.
[8.1] Useful General Feats
==========================
[8.1.1] Ambidexterity
---------------------
One of the three feats needed for any character that wants to
effectively dual-wield (including using a double weapon).  Utility
really depends on the build, but taking this feat without planning to
take the other two (Two-Weapon Fighting and Improved Two-Weapon
Fighting) would be pointless.  Keep in mind that Ambidexterity has a
Dexterity of 15 requirement.
[8.1.2] Blind Fight
-------------------
Blind Fight is very useful to any character that is fighting
against enemy spellcasters.  When playing the NWN Original Campaigns
it certainly appears to be a must for any melee character that can
afford it.
[8.1.3] Cleave
--------------
A chance at a free attack, what's not to like.  However, it requires
Power Attack as a pre-requisite which also requires a 13 in Strength.
It is pretty much standard in my feat selection within the first few
levels for all my melee characters.
[8.1.4] Divine Might
--------------------
This feat is excellent for Clerics and Paladin combinations that
have the Charisma to take advantage.  It requires the abilility to Turn
Undead from Cleric or Paladin levels.  It also requires the Power
Attack Feat, but most melee characters will have that by the time they
are eligible to really make effective use of Divine Might anyway.  This
feat is considered a Paladin and Cleric Class Feat and can only be taken
when leveling up in one of those two classes during a usual General Feat
selection (i.e. 6th or 9th character level).
[8.1.5] Divine Shield
---------------------
Like Divine Might, it has the same requirements regarding Power
Attack, Turn Undead and being either a Cleric or Paladin.  Being able
to apply that Charisma bonus as a Dodge bonus to AC is great, but it
may be tough for Dwarven Defenders to have decent duration and
effectiveness.  Like Divine Might, this feat is a considered a Paladin
and Cleric Class Feat and can only be taken when leveling up in one of
those two classes.  With lower Charisma, it may not be as useful as
Divine Might.
[8.1.6] Dodge
-------------
An extra +1 AC bonus is always useful and it requires a Dexterity
of 13.  This a mandatory requirement for Dwarven Defender.
[8.1.7] Extra Turning
---------------------
For those Cleric and Paladin combinations making use of the Divine
Might and Divine Shield Feats, this feat is a definite plus to increase
the numbers of times per day to use those abilities.  Also, unlike
Divine Might and Divine Shield it is not a Class Feat so it can be taken
during any level-ups whenever General Feats are available.
[8.1.8] Great Cleave
--------------------
Of course it requires Cleave as a pre-requisite and it is required
if a character wants Overwhelming Critical in the epic levels.  Overall
usefulness is mixed.  Often at higher levels the chances of being able
to deliver more than one killing blow per round can become less when
fighting those higher level enemies.  However even high level bad guys
can get mowed down pretty quickly if they were softened up by some area
effect damage spells ahead of time.
[8.1.9] Improved Critical
-------------------------
Once selecting a weapon of choice and taking its Weapon Focus, it
only makes sense to also have Improved Critical in the same weapon.
Usually this is not a question of whether or not to get this feat, but
what priority it has.
[8.1.10] Improved Power Attack
------------------------------
This feat is not always that useful.  It can be handy for
overcoming the damage reduction of doors and chests, but in combat the
-10 penalty to your attack rolls versus the benefit of +10 damage can
be a questionable trade off.  However with an over abundance of bonuses
to attack rolls, the extra damage could be most welcome in some cases,
especially when needing to overcome damage resistances.  However when
in Defensive Stance, the DD cannot use Power Attack or Improved Power
Attack.
[8.1.11] Improved Two-Weapon Fighting
-------------------------------------
The last of the three feats necessary for any character that wants
to effectively dual-wield (including using a double weapon).  When it
becomes available the character can be getting close to having three
attacks per round with their primary weapon and adding in this feat
can mean a jump from three attacks per round to five within a span of
1-2 level-ups.  Timing for getting this feat really depends on the
build, but after already taking the other two dual-wielding feats
(Ambidexterity and Two-Weapon Fighting) getting this feat would likely
be a priority.  Even at higher levels when the BAB penalties can be
compensated without Ambidexterity; just the two feats of Two-Weapon