PF2E Archetypes & Multiclassing

Source: PF2E Player Core, Advanced Player's Guide Availability: All PF2E archetypes work in SF2E campaigns

What Are Archetypes?

Archetypes are optional character customization that lets you:

• Multiclass into another class
• Specialize in a particular fighting style or concept
• Gain abilities outside your base class

Archetypes use the dedication feat system - you take a dedication feat to enter an archetype, then can take additional archetype feats.

How Archetypes Work

Step 1: Take a Dedication Feat

• Usually available at level 2+
• Grants core archetype abilities
• Requires meeting prerequisites

Step 2: Take Archetype Feats

• Use class feat slots for archetype feats
• Must take 2 archetype feats before taking another dedication
• Can eventually take multiple archetypes

The Dedication Rule

You cannot take another dedication feat until you have taken at least 2 other feats from your current archetype.

This ensures meaningful investment before branching out.

Archetype Types

Class Archetypes (Multiclassing)

Take abilities from another class:

Skill Archetypes

Specialize in particular expertise:

• Acrobat, Assassin, Bastion, Beastmaster
• Bounty Hunter, Cavalier, Celebrity, Dandy
• Dual-Weapon Warrior, Duelist, Eldritch Archer
• Gladiator, Herbalist, Linguist, Loremaster
• Marshal, Martial Artist, Medic, Pirate
• Poisoner, Ritualist, Scout, Sentinel
• Shadowdancer, Snarecrafter, Viking, Weapon Improviser

Special Archetypes

Unique concepts:

• Free Archetype (variant rule)
• Animist, Exemplar (new classes with archetype options)
• Archetype-only concepts (Vampire, Lich, etc.)

Spellcasting Archetypes

Class archetypes that grant spellcasting follow this progression:

Note: Archetype spellcasting is slower than dedicated casters but provides versatility.

Free Archetype Variant

Optional Rule: At levels 2, 4, 6, 8, etc., characters gain a FREE archetype feat that doesn't use their class feat slot.

Benefits:

• More character customization
• Every character can multiclass/specialize
• Doesn't sacrifice class progression

GM Considerations:

• Increases character power slightly
• More complexity to track
• Great for experienced groups

Popular Archetype Combinations

Combat Enhancers

Spellcasting Additions

Skill Specialists

Using in SF2E Campaigns

All PF2E archetypes work in SF2E. Consider flavor adjustments:

Compendium Access

Archetypes are available in the PF2E Foundry system:

• Dedication Feats: Search "Dedication" in feats
• Archetype Feats: Filter by archetype trait

Last Updated: 2026-01-17