by BLA1NE Sun Feb 17, 2013 10:51 pm
^No need to be rude about it...
The actual reason is probably due to game balance--PvE balance, specifically. If you look at the starting classes, their starting stats (amount of levels, more importantly than their distribution) and starting level seem to factor other starting attributes, like gear, covenant, and spells. The Sorcerer, for example, has the lowest amount of starting total stat points, but starts with an attunment of soul arrows.
The thief starts with a free master key. Doesn't seem huge now, but it used to be when you couldn't purchase it, and it allowed you to get an extra starting gift.
(Don't ask me in what universe the Pyro starting class is considered to be balanced though!
)
Looking at it from a PvP build perspective it seems underpowered, but that's not the way From looked at it. And after a few patches they probably diluted the advantages the Thief class had to begin with, but I guess re-balancing the starting classes was no longer an option at that point.
Considering how huge PvP has become for Dark Souls, I wouldn't be surprised if From balanced starting classes with that a little more in mind for Dark Souls 2, though.