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What is the Best Weapon for a Rogue? A Comprehensive Guide

The question of the “best” weapon for a rogue is multifaceted, and the answer isn’t always straightforward. It depends heavily on the game system, the rogue’s specific build, and the player’s preferred style of play. However, if we’re talking about the quintessential rogue, the weapons that frequently come to mind are daggers, rapiers, and shortswords, with longbows for ranged encounters. Let’s break this down:

For Melee: The rapier often stands out as a top choice for its blend of precision and damage. It typically deals piercing damage and is a finesse weapon, meaning it utilizes a rogue’s dexterity stat for attack rolls. In many systems, it provides a slightly higher base damage die than a shortsword. On the other hand, shortswords are also favored for their versatility and suitability for dual-wielding.
For Ranged: The longbow is a classic ranged option, offering excellent range and significant damage output when a rogue needs to engage from a distance, though not all games favor ranged rogues.
The Dual-Wielding Conundrum: Rogues frequently benefit from a dual-wielding playstyle to maximize opportunities for Sneak Attack (or similar mechanics). A common setup involves using a rapier in the main hand for damage and a shortsword or dagger in the off-hand for additional attacks.

So, while the “best” choice is circumstantial, rapiers, and shortswords usually hold center stage for melee, while longbows offer strong ranged support. Ultimately, the “best” weapon is the one that best complements the specific rogue’s capabilities and the encounter.

Delving Deeper: Why These Weapons?

The prominence of these weapons stems from how they interact with core rogue mechanics:

Dexterity Focus: Rogues primarily rely on Dexterity. Finesse weapons, like rapiers, shortswords, and daggers, directly benefit from this.
Sneak Attack/Backstab: This core rogue ability often requires a finesse weapon or a ranged weapon. Dual-wielding also maximizes the number of opportunities for a sneak attack or similar feature in combat.
Agility and Mobility: Rogues are built for agility. Lighter, more maneuverable weapons fit their style. Rapiers and shortswords allow them to weave through combat, while longbows enable them to pick off targets at range.

Beyond the Basics: Considering Different Systems

It’s important to note that the definition of “best” changes drastically depending on the game system:

Dungeons & Dragons (5e): Here, the rapier often reigns supreme for a melee rogue. It offers a slightly higher damage die than shortswords, is a finesse weapon, and fits well with dual-wielding rules. Daggers are more commonly used in the offhand slot or if going for an assassinate style gameplay. Longbows are used for the ranged option if the rogue chooses to be more stealthy.
Other Tabletop RPGs: Systems often vary on which weapons benefit rogues the most. Some may emphasize the agility of shortswords, the deadliness of daggers, or the utility of thrown weapons. Always check the rules to confirm weapon properties.
Video Games (MMORPGs, RPGs): In many games, rogues can utilize a wider array of weapons based on talent choices or specialization. This can include swords, axes, and maces (depending on the specialization). The best weapons often include those with added bonuses, special effects, or synergy with the rogue’s overall build.
Terraria Calamity Mod: Here, rogue weapons are an entirely new category with their own damage type and unique properties. Weapons like the Seraphim, Refraction Rotor, and Celestus stand out as powerful late-game options.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are 15 commonly asked questions regarding rogue weapons, to help clarify and provide further insight.

1. Is a rapier or shortsword better for a rogue in 5e?

Generally, the rapier is considered slightly better due to its higher damage die (1d8 versus 1d6) while still benefiting from the finesse property. The shortsword does work better when it comes to dual wielding as both are considered Light. However, the difference is often minimal, and a player’s preference for one over the other is the more important factor.

2. Can rogues dual-wield rapiers?

In D&D 5e, no, you cannot normally dual-wield rapiers as they are not classified as “light” weapons. For dual wielding both weapons need to be considered Light. However, you could use a rapier in your main hand and a light weapon, such as a dagger or a shortsword, in your off-hand.

3. Why would a rogue use a dagger?

Daggers are often used in an off-hand slot for dual wielding. They are also a light weapon meaning you can still use your bonus action to attack using them. Additionally, daggers are very common and easily acquired weapons. They can also be thrown which makes it a great versatile weapon for rogues.

4. Are swords viable for a rogue?

Yes, swords are viable in many game systems. While longswords lack the finesse property in D&D 5e, other games might allow rogues to wield them with dexterity or other similar weapon traits. In video games, specializations can often open up options for swords.

5. What is the best ranged weapon for a rogue?

The longbow is a classic ranged option offering the best range and generally good damage when the player is not looking to focus on skills for rogue builds. However, consider the overall build or specialization of your rogue, as that may heavily affect which ranged weapon you choose. Some rogues may prefer crossbows or thrown weapons depending on the game mechanics.

6. Do rogues always need daggers?

No, rogues do not always need daggers, but they are highly useful. They are light, common and can be used for throwing and melee. In the end, a dagger is just one type of weapon that rogues are proficient with.

7. What is the significance of “finesse” weapons?

Finesse weapons allow a character to use either their strength or dexterity modifier for attack rolls and damage. Since rogues primarily use dexterity, they greatly benefit from this property because their primary stat can now be used in melee combat.

8. Can a rogue use a great axe?

In most cases no (depending on if the rogue has the required strength to wield it). You can, theoretically hold a greataxe in one hand while using a shortsword in another but you won’t be able to apply two-weapon fighting. The greataxe, lacking finesse, would also rely on the rogue’s weaker strength stat for its attacks, making it less effective.

9. What are rogue weapons in Terraria Calamity Mod?

In the Terraria Calamity Mod, rogue weapons are a unique class, dealing “rogue damage” which operates differently from traditional damage. These weapons are often thrown, may have special return or flight patterns and are very specific to the Calamity mod.

10. Should a rogue dual-wield?

Yes, dual wielding can be a strong option for rogues, especially if the game system rewards multiple attacks, like D&D 5e with Sneak Attack, allowing for more chances to trigger additional damage.

11. What about critical hits with rogues?

Critical hits are always a good thing, but for rogues specifically it is extremely important to look for weapons that increase critical chance, or provide additional damage on critical hits due to the amount of damage you would deal on a successful hit.

12. What are the best stat boosts to look for on rogue weapons?

Dexterity boosts are ideal for rogues, but additional damage boosts, critical damage boosts and any kind of special trait or effect on weapons can make them extremely valuable as well.

13. Are there any weapons that are always bad for rogues?

Weapons that require high strength to wield, and do not have the finesse trait will be less useful. Additionally, weapons with a low damage die and lack of special traits will always be inferior.

14. Do some rogue subclasses favor different weapons?

Yes. Some rogue subclasses may be more focused on melee than others. Assassin Rogues, may focus heavily on daggers, while other subclasses might prefer rapiers. The player needs to make choices on what is most effective for their specific build.

15. How often should rogues be replacing their weapons?

Rogues should be looking for upgrades whenever it becomes available as that is their primary source of damage for combat. This is important so that their attack is always in line with their level progression. The value in keeping a dagger is that it is easily obtained to begin with.

Conclusion

There’s no single “best” weapon for a rogue. The ideal choice hinges on your game system, your specific build, and your personal playstyle. While the rapier, shortsword, dagger, and longbow are mainstays, a deeper understanding of game mechanics and your chosen rogue’s build is critical to finding your preferred weaponry. Always research your options and consider what will make your rogue most effective. Don’t be afraid to experiment and find your perfect fit!

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