The Lurker Fallacy

Playtesting D&D Next has been a lot of fun and has created many interesting discussions within our group related to game design, play styles, and editions. Sometimes, however, our group finds something where we are all unanimous. Such a thing is the design of lurkers in 4E and the design of the rogue in D&D Next.

It was no surprise to us to see the rogue be designed as it is. It continues a long trend from the very beginning of 4E, and it goes like this: A lurker is often a creature that disappears from site, landing a devastating blow the next turn. And, here's the added kicker that really seals the deal: 'devastating' is usually defined as double damage (and sometimes less).

Example: The 4E Twig Blight

1. It has a rechargeable melee power that deals 2d6+8 damage

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