My point is a shield is a benefit because you know how to use it. If you didn't know how to use it. Why would you strap a hunk of sheet metal to your arm to go to war.
Edited
Warmaster (M) Berserker vs Savant (V?) Necromancer
in this game anybody can pick up and wear any items (within weight restrictions).
Not everyone benefits equally from all items (see encumbrance, and proficiency in general).
If a magic shield gives me flight, even if I cant block attacks with it I can hold it in my hand and fly.
If someone (a mage) has a free hand, why not hold a magical shield? He has no intention of performing "shield blocks", but he wants to benefit from the properties of the item.
Because that logic literally only applies in FL. And it's only argued as a pro for min maxing. Applying faulty logic to justify "but muh free 80 ac". I'd wager that you couldn't find one instance of someone carrying something they can't use just because it does xyz across the entire fantasy genre. Barring items who's sole purpose is to do exactly what it does (like Jack sparrows compass for a relatable pop culture reference).
My argument is that a shields ac benefits are representative of knowing how to use a shield, and should only exist if you can make use of a shield. That's all. If all soldier couldn't use a pike, they didn't carry one. You don't carry a bow if you can't shoot arrows. You don't carry a tower shield if you can't use one.
Anonymous poster hash: 56257...5ce
No clue why that posted as anonymous. ^tarako
On 5/24/2019 at 1:58 PM, Anonymous said:
You parry Umbricant's attack.
You can feel "Rokujan" the Dark Dagger dig into your body.
Umbricant's wrath mauls you.
20 minutes ago, Anonymous said:
My argument is that a shields ac benefits are representative of knowing how to use a shield, and should only exist if you can make use of a shield.
We most players feel that holding a slab of metal/wood is an innate skill, like wearing armor. You could be blind and still benefit from holding a shield.
It also creates an interesting mechanic where you forgo staffs and wield 1handed weapons and a shield, favoring AC/offence over parry.
Let's keep this on topic, please. If you wish to continue discussing the realism of holding a shield while proficient and not and the applications thereof, please create a new thread.