Thief (character class)
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Template:Wesnothunit The thief character class in role-playing games such as Dungeons & Dragons, Final Fantasy, and most MMORPGs are stealthy, dextrous characters who are the only characters who can disarm traps, pick locks, and perform backstabs from hiding.
Typically, these thieves are capable of hand to hand fighting or usage of bows, and while stronger than a mage, are outclassed in physical combat by character classes who are dedicated to such talents.
However, thieves usually have the highest chance to dodge blows or spells of any class, due to their natural dexterity, which gives them an edge in combat. But, however, if they are once hit, their constitution (ability to withstand the pressure of damage) might not be as good.
Also, thieves almost always have some sort of stealth ability, allowing them to disappear from sight; logically following, thieves have the ability to attack while their opponent is unawares, doing massive damage. This is usually referred to as a backstab or sneak attack. They are also fond of using double-blades, one in each hand, usually a short sword or perhaps a dagger, if they are too small for even that.
However, thieves are usually restricted to the lighter armors, leather and the like, and Thieves can not cast actual magic, although they might in some games (such as Dungeons & Dragons) use scrolls or other magical items.
A thief's real talent shines in performing duties of subterfuge: Picking chests, disarming traps, and assassinating key targets. They may also in some games "multiclass" with some other class to help complement their lacks, such as lack of physical head-on battle-skill, or arcane magic-arts.
The Thief series of computer games focuses entirely on the lifestyle of a medieval fantasy thief.
In the Fire Emblem games, the Thief is one of two classes that can use lockpicks. Their weapon is usually the sword, but in Fire Emblem: Path of Radiance, they use knives. In addition to opening doors and chests, they may also steal items from enemy units. However, weapons, magic, and staves cannot be stolen. Thieves upgrade to thief fighters, assassins or rogues, or not upgrade at all.
Although the thief as an archetype in role-playing games achieved popularity through Dungeons & Dragons, in the game's Third Edition the class was renamed as "Rogue", likely since not all stealthy characters are actually thieves. Today, spies, scouts, and detectives, as well as thieves and just about any other character who relies on stealth and/or a broad range of skills, falls under the Rogue class.