This is part 2 of 4 in our Going Rogue series.
An arrow sails through the shadows to find its mark. Witnesses scatter and their eyes dart about trying to spot the culprit. And one by one, they too disappear to a pattern of whistles and thunks as arrows fly and bodies drop.
Just an average day for a sneak attacking rogue.
In some TTRPGs, you can expect the rogue to not only nab the treasure and pick the lock, but they’ll often strike before you even had a chance to see them coming. What’s more, even after you feel their presence sinking into your side, they have already made a nimble escape to avoid the consequences of their actions.
Rogues have a unique playstyle compared to other characters in that their greatest moments are often their ability to seize an opportunity - or make one - for themselves.
Rogues tend to be stealthy types that either operate from the shadows unseen or in plain sight simply unnoticed. When they have the right moment, they can take advantage of a sneak attack or dodge an opponent with uncanny dexterity. They dart to and from, in and out, dashing, dipping, diving, ducking, and dodging through an encounter - ideally unscathed and standing next to their prize at the end ready to pocket it surrounded by conquered obstacles.
In real life, we can learn a lot from a rogue’s natural mobility.
Where are we waiting in plain sight for the right moment?
Where do we need to be quick and decisive?
When do we need to be patient and set up our future success?
What surprises do we have in store for ourselves and others?
Stealth and subterfuge is as much strategy as it is luck and talent. Knowing what is most important and staying flexible in how to get there is what turns a moment into an opportunity and into a success.
The rogue knows that sometimes what you see isn’t what you get. And they prefer it that way.
Strike swiftly!
Sincerely,
Autumn & Jerod