Scott DeWar
Prof. Emeritus-Supernatural Events/Countermeasure
I would like a rogue's gallery.
I actually had full discussions with my players back when I made the decision. The only time I have seen it really make a difference was quite recently in LPF. By knowing the high AC (29) of a buffed out summoner’s eidolon, they decided to not even attack it. However, they probably still would have avoided the eidolon to go after the summoner anyway since it was more efficient that way.Though I typically use the ??/?? HP mechanic more often than PM, as he said I give AC (and often HP) out to my players. I haven't done a data driven study or anything, but I can't really tell that it often makes a difference in player decisions. Since I can't tell, it doesn't matter enough to sacrifice the pace, IMO. I've been tempted to reveal monster saves as well, but there are more variables there to consider - situational bonuses come to mind right off the bat.
I am not sure how can you say it is “more” realistic? They are all pretty much the same thing when you get down to it, Mowgli.It's not as realistic as the hybrid system mentioned by kinem, but IMO it is more realistic than the standard AC system.
Attack bonuses are going to increase, but AC will not increase as much. Damage amounts will increase, but DR really will not.
Bottom Line: Cons, increase complications and potential balance issues. Pros, none
Consider this, Mowgli. Take a look at higher level games with characters like Frost. Her Defense under the "Armor as DR" variant is 15, but she has DR of 15 to balance against the mundane damage. However, her opponents are getting multiple attacks with Attack bonuses of +20 and +15 on secondary attacks. That's 19 hits out of 20. Guess what happens when they have added ability damages like level drain. She is hit on nearly every attack and needing like more saves per turn.
Looking at level 1 those goblins and kobolds rolling 1d4 damage dice are hardly doing anything to most characters with Studded Leather armor or better. A fighter with scale mail armor is practically invincible against a horde of them.
The more I look into it, I am starting to really question the balance issues.
Exactly. Thinking about those combats with Heinrich and Tyrien against those undead wights got me thankful that variant was not being used.an interesting and rather valid argument.
I see what you are worried about, airwalkrr. 1st level (and even 2nd level) is common to have that one combat that drags out for 10 rounds as both sides have a few rounds where neither side lands a blow. Oddly enough every single one of those battles I have experienced involved DR on the monsters (Skeletons and Fey). After 3rd level, I have rarely seen that happen though. So if the variant rule is strictly to speed up combat then it is most applicable to provide the analysis at level 1.To everyone: regarding Armor as DR, Therefore the only issue up for debate on whether or not I use this rule is "Will this 1) speed up, 2) slow down, or 3) have no appreciable effect on combat?" Discuss.
I am wondering why we need a different rule variant for magical attacks. If we need the GM to provide meta-information on Saving Throws to self resolve magical spells anyway, then why not just allow players to roll the saving throw for the GM in that case?PRATD: What say you to this?
Kinem switched to wizard, so we have plenty of arcane support but we are now slightly weaker on melee strength.SdW, you're right that there is not a "strong" arcane filling the role, but with both a bard and a summoner the arcane abilities of the party should be up to par.