The new Purple Dragon Knight seems super cool, but it seems like they would be more Charisma based over Int?

I get the impression it’s a little divisive from some videos I’ve seen, but honestly I feel like the subclass seems SUPER cool! I feel like it’s exactly the kind of thing that would’ve resonated with me as a kid.

It kind of seems weird they would focus on Int instead of Charisma, though? Seems like that would make a more natural fit when it comes to building a bond with your dragon.

Also, I like the idea of having mounted combat as an option, but it seems a like a Lance is too going to be, like… WAY better than any other option? I guess it makes sense to be a good mounted weapon, but kind of wonder if there would be any sort of vaguely competitive sword option?

I’ve been wanting a super traditional “sword-and-shield” sort of character for a while, but it seems like the class is almost tailor made to use a Lance, so I’d just be curious if there might be some way to make it competitive? I would almost wonder if between this and the Paladin if there ought to be a magic item or some sort of weapon that is a little more competitive as a mounted option?

Curious what you guys are feeling on it? Think it’ll make the cut as an officially release subclass? Changes you guys want to see?