(IWD1) HoF mode from the beginning Options

[Klorox]

I'm going to give it a try, and I'm brainstorming party ideas now. here's what I've got so far:

Gnome Fighter (GM in Axes for a great AC and using the boomerang axe)

Half-Elf Cleric/Ranger

Half-Elf Fighter/Druid

Elf Fighter/Mage/Thief (basically, I'm using him as an archer who can open locks and disarm traps. Since he'll always be in the back-row, I figured he doesn't really need armor so why not throw some spellcasting ability in there as well?)

Gnome Fighter/Illusionist

Half-Elf Bard

I'm not too sure on where to allocate weapon proficiencies (other than maxing out ranged weapons for all characters ASAP).

I also know that Paladins are usually pointed at as being great for HoF mode, but I think that's because of being able to cast "Prot. from Evil" on themselves so often. I figure a single classed Gnome fighter can wear that gnome/halfling helmet for a better AC bonus, and can also be a more offensive character since he can get GM in a few weapons.

This is still in it's planning stage, so I'd really welcome comments/ideas/criticisms. TIA

[Klorox]

Cool, thanks.

I've decided to make one change so far. Instead of the Gnome Fighter, I'm plugging in a Gnome Fighter/Thief. I'll still use him as a tank(fully armored), but I think the slightly lower HP and lack of GM in any weapon is far outeweighed by the evasion ability he'll gain. I've come to realize that in HoF, you'll (need to) do a lot more damage with spells than weapons, so losing GM isn't that big of a deal. Besides, since this will allow him to gain specialization in more weapons, it opens up his versatility. I'll be using the Long Sword of Action +4 when I get it instead of an inferior Axe.