Staunch Defender

Summary

Staunch Defender is a paladin advanced move in Dungeon World that Vasso considered during Session 3. The move presumably enhances the Defend basic move, making it more effective for characters who expect to use defensive actions frequently in combat. Shawn recommended it as a good choice if Vasso anticipated using the Defend action regularly.

Details

Staunch Defender appears in the paladin playbook as one of the Advanced Moves available to characters of that class. While the specific mechanical benefits are not detailed in the session transcript, Shawn's guidance suggests the move provides additional advantages or bonuses when a character takes the Defend action. In Dungeon World, the Defend basic move allows a character to protect another person, place, or thing from immediate danger, and Staunch Defender would presumably amplify this capability.

The move was discussed alongside other paladin advanced move options, including one referred to as "the exterminatus," indicating that Vasso was evaluating multiple character advancement paths. Dayna, who portrays Vasso, expressed interest in the move as one of several appealing choices.

History

Session 3

During character advancement discussions in Session 3, Dayna mentioned considering Staunch Defender as a potential advanced move for Vasso. Dayna noted, "I kind of like the idea of the exterminatus or the staunch defender," indicating it was among the preferred options. Shawn responded with tactical advice: "Staunch defender is good. If you think you're gonna use defend a lot," suggesting the move's value depends on Vasso's expected combat tactics and play style.