5 Ways To Master Animal Companions In Pathfinder 2E
Animal companions have been a staple of fantasy role-playing games for decades, and Pathfinder 2e is no exception. These loyal friends can add a new layer of depth to your gameplay experience, providing support, combat prowess, and even emotional connections. However, mastering animal companions can be a daunting task, especially for new players. In this article, we will explore five ways to master animal companions in Pathfinder 2e, covering topics from selection to training and beyond.
Understanding Animal Companion Basics
Before diving into the nuances of animal companions, it's essential to understand the basics. In Pathfinder 2e, animal companions are creatures that can be trained to fight alongside their owners. These companions can be acquired through various means, such as purchasing them from a market or finding them in the wild.
Selection Strategies
With over 100 animal companions to choose from in the Pathfinder 2e core rulebook, selecting the right companion can be overwhelming. Here are a few strategies to help you make an informed decision:
- Consider Your Playstyle: Think about the type of gameplay experience you want to have. Do you want a companion that excels at melee combat or one that provides ranged support?
- Assess Your Character's Abilities: Choose an animal companion that complements your character's abilities. For example, if your character is a skilled archer, consider a companion with high speed and agility.
- Look for Synergies: Some animal companions have abilities that synergize with specific character classes or archetypes. For example, the wolf's pack tactics ability pairs well with the ranger's hunter's prey ability.
Training and Upgrading
Once you've selected your animal companion, it's time to start training and upgrading. Here are a few tips to help you get the most out of your companion:
- Invest in Training: Spend time training your animal companion to improve its abilities and increase its effectiveness in combat.
- Upgrade Equipment: Provide your animal companion with the best equipment available, such as better armor or more potent abilities.
- Choose the Right Feats: Select feats that complement your animal companion's abilities and playstyle.
Feats for Animal Companions
Feats can significantly impact your animal companion's performance in combat. Here are a few feats that are particularly useful for animal companions:
- Attack of Opportunity: Allows your animal companion to make an opportunity attack when an enemy enters its reach.
- Combat Maneuvers: Enables your animal companion to perform combat maneuvers, such as disarm or trip.
- Improved Initiative: Grants your animal companion improved initiative, allowing it to act sooner in combat.
Combat Strategies
Combat is where your animal companion will shine, but it's essential to have a solid strategy in place. Here are a few tips to help you get the most out of your animal companion in combat:
- Use Terrain to Your Advantage: Position your animal companion in a way that takes advantage of the terrain. For example, if you're fighting in a forest, use the trees to provide cover and concealment.
- Control the Battlefield: Use your animal companion's abilities to control the battlefield. For example, if your companion has a powerful area effect ability, use it to clear clusters of enemies.
- Coordinate with Your Party: Work with your party to create a cohesive combat strategy. For example, if your party has a tanky character, use your animal companion to provide flanking support.
Maintaining Your Animal Companion
Animal companions require regular maintenance to ensure they remain effective in combat. Here are a few tips to help you keep your animal companion in top shape:
- Feed and Care for Your Companion: Provide your animal companion with regular food and care to maintain its health and morale.
- Train Regularly: Spend time training your animal companion to maintain its skills and abilities.
- Upgrade Equipment Regularly: Regularly upgrade your animal companion's equipment to ensure it remains effective in combat.
Conclusion
Mastering animal companions in Pathfinder 2e requires a combination of strategy, training, and maintenance. By selecting the right companion, training and upgrading it, using effective combat strategies, and maintaining its health and morale, you can create a formidable ally that will aid you in your adventures.
What is the best animal companion in Pathfinder 2e?
+The best animal companion in Pathfinder 2e depends on your playstyle and character build. However, popular choices include the wolf, bear, and lion.
How do I train my animal companion in Pathfinder 2e?
+To train your animal companion in Pathfinder 2e, spend time training it using the Train Animal feat. You can also use other feats and abilities to improve its skills and abilities.
Can I have multiple animal companions in Pathfinder 2e?
+Yes, you can have multiple animal companions in Pathfinder 2e, but it's essential to consider the logistics and balance of having multiple companions in your party.