What is the Arcane Trickster Roguish Archetype?

Identity

The Arcane Trickster is an Intelligence-using magical Rogue that combines Sneak Attack, Cunning Action and Expertise with limited Wizard spellcasting, illusion and enchantment magic, and an enhanced mage hand. Magic expands how the Rogue creates openings, infiltrates, and controls space, but weapon attacks and Sneak Attack remain the core damage plan.

How it fits the Rogue chassis

Arcane Trickster begins at 3rd Rogue level and gains further archetype features at 9th, 13th, and 17th level. Arcane Trickster gains its archetype features at Rogue levels 3, 9, 13, and 17. The long gaps between them matter because spellcasting develops alongside the Rogue's normal Sneak Attack and defensive progression.

Ability-score implications

Dexterity remains the main Rogue ability. Intelligence becomes the important secondary score when you select spells that use attack rolls or saving throws. Constitution remains useful for durability and concentration.

Combat and exploration role

Use spells to create advantage, concealment, control, mobility and infiltration rather than trying to become a full Wizard. Keep a finesse or ranged weapon available because Sneak Attack still applies to weapon attacks, not ordinary spell attacks.

Sneak Attack remains central

Arcane Trickster does not replace Sneak Attack with spell damage. Magic is strongest when it creates a better Sneak Attack turn: invisibility, illusions, control or Versatile Trickster can help produce advantage or safer positioning. Magical Ambush works in the opposite direction, using Rogue stealth to make saving-throw spells harder to resist.