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Monks for Five Torches Deep

Five Torches Deep is a roleplaying game that mix the rules of D&D 5e and OSR games philosophies (my review is here). Some thing that is left out from FTD is the monk class. I can totally see why it was not included, as the last thing I would imagine in a western fantasy setting is a wuxia monk. While it was introduced in an old school edition (OD&D's supplement Blackmoor), not much people actually played with them. High restrictions for a low HP fighter with some spells and skills made this class overlooked. However in 5e they are amazing. Multiple attacks and increased movement make them the perfect controllers in combat. My players are going to miss them from FTD.

So, in order to experiment with FTD class system, the monk is the perfect guinea pig. FTD has classes and archtypes. Classes are what define your character, while archetypes are subclasses that offer some features and bonuses. The four classes and the 12 corresponding archetypes in FTD are:

  • Warrior: Barbarian, Fighter, Ranger
  • Thief: Assasin, Bard, Rogue
  • Zealot: Cleric, Druid, Paladin
  • Mage: Sorcerer, Warlock, Wizard
Should monks be class or archetype? In order to be a class it should have some subdivision that could become their own archetypes. I prefer to go for archetype with this one. The question now if wich class should monks be tied with. Fighters have already multiples attack per turn, thieves are dodgy and zealots have the "mystic" aura of a monk. I will go for thief, but all options are valid.

I wont use ki points for two reasons. One, it wasnt in OD&D/AD&D; Second, the mechanic would be too wordy for the reduced space archetypes have in the rulebook. 

First, all archetypes gain some proficiency bonus. They should receive a bonus to athletics, but also things related with "the power of the mind". I want them to stun opponents, have good damage unarmed, and maybe give them and additional attack. They also should have a pair of rolls with advantage. Lets work.

Monk Archetype
You gain your proficiency bonus to perception, insight, and athletics related checks. Gain one feature at level 3 and 7.

Attack rolls of 19-20 stuns enemy for 1 turn.
Advantage to resist spells Dont receive damage for falling  
Additional unarmed attack   Advantage to resist diseases
Self induced death for 10' Unarmed does1d6 damage

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