I have some questions about CoAB.


1) Are we punished by modifying characters stats to 18 like in PoR?

2) If we are punished, how far can stats go for PLD,RNG,CL and MU without being punished with extra encounters?

I wont be using my PoR pt, ill create a new one since i reached the cap in PoR and want to level more. My pt will be all humans, PLD, RNG, CL, 2 MU and idk what will be the 6th member. Is THF required to view all content?

Suggestions are welcome.

This excellent document can probably help you with any questions you may have (I'm not the author): https://gamefaqs.gamespot.com/pc/564786-curse-of-the-azure-bonds/faqs/78365

However, here's my short answer:

Some things (including random encounters) are scaled your "Party Strength", which does take into account AC, HP, and THAC0, and therefore having 18 STR, DEX, or CON can affect it. (For the full details, see section 8.14 in the document linked above).

Having a thief is not essential, I think you'll only completely miss out on one thing (a small bit of non-essential info) if you don't have one. Otherwise, they're useful for avoiding traps and backstabbing.

For your last character I'd recommend you go for a multiclass: Dwarf F/T, Elf F/M, or Elf F/M/T depending on your preference.

The most useful character in the hardest part of Curse (fighting magic resistant Drow at low level) is a backstabbing Fighter/Thief.