Yeah, I think something like this could work, just maybe set up a little different.
I like the idea of a heretic class, which could be called any made up name like the ones the OP mentioned.
I think it should run a lot off adrenaline, since the warrior is really the only class that makes use of it right now. A staff would be their main weapon.
I think Shout-like skills could work, but instead call them something different.
How about this for attributes:
Fanaticism - Primary
Boldness
Charisma
Dark Arts
Heresy
Fanaticism - This would kind of be like the Divine stuff the monk has. It affects other Heretic skills, and maybe has a handful of skills under this attribute. This is how far the heretic is willing to go to follow it's beliefs.
Boldness - This would be a buffing sort of skill set. Half off mana, the other half off adrenaline. Maybe something like traditional Barbarians in D&D. This is where you could put some of the OP deflect/blocking stuff, as well as sacrificial type attacks.
Charisma - This would be a majorily shout-type skill set. Instead of shouts, have them called Orations, or Sermons, or something like that. Also, the OP benediction stuff could fall in here.
Dark Arts - This could be some Rasputin type skills. Gazes that can cause conditions, and stuff like that. I see Hypnotize as an elite here, not sure exaclty what it woudl do, maybe daze, etc....
Heresy - This would be the main attack skillset. Since this class would be using wands/staves, this would include buffs and special attacks. So special attack skills, that use the staff as their source. Think of some moves from Soul Caliber, with the woman with the staff. I can't think of names, but like sweeping out someone's feet, block, counter-attacks, etc...
I think the OP had a good thought, no need to needlessly bash him, offer up some suggestions instead.
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Just had another thought that could work this into the story line a bit. The heretics are followers of the Titans. Since that whole thing came out, no doubt word has spread. Heretics are popping up trying to spread the word as to how they are our true masters, or something like that. That or followers of the Seer, whatever that thing was. Or even the Margonites. You know who the Margonites are right? If not, go back and read some of the stuff NPC's tell you.
