Classes of Legend: the Fiendblade (with the tag line ?command the armies of hell?) is the latest of the Classes of Legend series from Lion?s Den Press which try to bring classic fantasy archetypes into the D20 system.

The Fiendblade tries to model the dark warrior with a pact with the infernal powers who can summon the aid of dark forces in his battles. Think of a certain pale skinned prince of a island ruled by those who practiced forbidden arts.

The Fiendblade class is presented first, the mechanics are simple, it is a combat class with extras. The Fiendblade is an interesting counterpoint to a paladin, while the paladin draws on faith to enhance their abilities, the Fiendblade relies on dirty tricks and summoning dark forces to fight for him.

The Fiendblade gets full BAB, D10 HD and the ability to summon fiendish allies, like a Summon Monster spell (as a spell). They are restricted to a certain number of HD summoned per day and further by a limited amount of HD worth of creatures summoned at any one time. They also gain a few dice of sneak attack, the ability to smite outsiders and a few other tricks. Mechanically It seems balanced with other combat and combat/spell casting hybrid classes.

Following the mechanics is advice on playing Fiendblade, both roleplaying and in game. Then a section about the place of Fiendblades in a world, how they fit into a campaign and how they can be used. Lastly, an example Fiendblade (Elsirott Krell, the Bane of Andallin, a 13th level Fiendblade) is presented as a ready adversary or patron.

Overall, quite a good source, the Fiendblade looks entirely balanced though I would have liked to have seen one or two feats and magic items especially tailored for the class to round it out. But if you like doomed and ill-fated heroes (or anti-heroes) this is worth looking at.<br><br> <b>LIKED</b>: New character options.<br><br><b>DISLIKED</b>: No support for the class beyond the class itself.<br><br><b>QUALITY</b>: Very Good<br><br><b>VALUE</b>: Satisfied<br>