NWN Monk (non-kama)

I'm returning to the game after a long time away. I've got the NWN, SoU,
and HotU installed. I'd like to play a Monk either through the OC or
SoU+HotU. My goals are to make a bare-fisted brawler (no kama) focused on
damage output (what else?). I'm looking for some tips on how to build this
character.

Here are some ideas I'm toying with and general questions I have as I try to
re-familiarize myself with the game:

1. Can a Monk become a Weapon Master with Unarmed Strike? How would you
rate this option (compared to other prestige classes)? (I see it as a huge
investment since it takes 7 feats to join - all the feats you get as a
non-Human Monk iirc - as well as an INT of 13 which wouldn't be a
consideration otherwise.)

2. Circle Kick sounds nice, but I've heard it's considered "buggy"...is
that still true? Is it worth getting anyhow?

3. Are any of the 1st-level-only feats worth taking for a Monk? (none are
jumping out at me)

4. I'm not too eager to multiclass this character, but if I was to take a
level or two in another class, what would the best option be and when should
I take it? (E.g. rogue at CL1 for the skills or fighter at CL5 for the
Weapon Specialization: Unarmed Strike)

5. I've looked at a monk guide written for the OC; are there any guides out
there for the SoU & HotU storyarc (e.g. ones that include epic feats,
expanded skills, new prestige classes, etc.)?

On Dec 19, 6:07 pm, "EMK" <noneofyourbusin... DeleteThis @columbus.rr.com> wrote:

> 1.  Can a Monk become a Weapon Master with Unarmed Strike?



Not in NWN, though you can in NWN 2.

> 2.  Circle Kick sounds nice, but I've heard it's considered "buggy"...is
> that still true?  Is it worth getting anyhow?



NO. It changes your point of aim when used, so instead of beating one
monster to death myou are spreading your damage among several. Dead
monsters don't hurt you...



> 3.  Are any of the 1st-level-only feats worth taking for a Monk?  (none are
> jumping out at me)


Eh. The better saves on is OK.



> 4.  I'm not too eager to multiclass this character, but if I was to take a
> level or two in another class, what would the best option be and when should
> I take it? (E.g. rogue at CL1 for the skills or fighter at CL5 for the
> Weapon Specialization: Unarmed Strike)


You need four levels of Fighter for Weapon Specialization, not one.
Fighter 4, Monk N does work though, especially if you go for two
weapon fighting or Weapon Master. The damage you can dish out with
Monk 4+, Fighter 4, Weapon Master 7, the two weapon fighting feats,
Weapon Specialization Kama and Improved Critical Kama is sick. I
know. Stay away from undead though...



> 5.  I've looked at a monk guide written for the OC; are there any guides out
> there for the SoU & HotU storyarc (e.g. ones that include epic feats,
> expanded skills, new prestige classes, etc.)?


I played a monk tons through HotU, I can answer any questions.