Age of Conan: Hyborian Adventures Interview
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Ten Ton Hammer: In general from the scant amount of video and descriptions of the Assassin that has filtered its way into the public why does the Assassin have such an emphasis on melee combat? Weren't Assassins just as good at killing people from a distance as they were with their close combat weaponry?
Evan: While Assassins are able to use crossbows and other forms of ranged weaponry, their strength is primarily in their ability to surprise and overwhelm their target quickly. Although one could accomplish this reasonably well with ranged attacks, the Assassin finds it more effective to be up close and personal, rapidly barraging his target with a flurry of quick jabs, poisoned blades, and other nasty techniques meant to expose his target's weaknesses.
Ten Ton Hammer: While combat is important in AoC, there has also been an emphasis placed on stealth and guile as well, which the Assassin seems to be exceptionally good at. How will the Assassin's stealth abilities allow him to gain an upper hand in certain encounters?
Evan: As was mentioned before, you are correct that the Assassin is exceptionally good at stealth, and the various advantages thereof. The Assassin takes full advantage of this, gaining the upper hand by surprising unwary foes and debilitating them before they have time to gain the upper hand.
Given that the Assassin isn't the most hearty fighter when it comes to getting directly attacked, being able to gain the element of surprise is a large boon for him. If skilled enough in sneaking around his chosen targets, the Assassin also has the ability to perform sneak attacks to further gain an advantage. He also has a number of abilities which have additional properties if used from stealth.
