Converting "generic setting" Second Edition monsters

[Shade]

If its basic programming allows it to itself without harm, then its programmers would likely set this construct to do that whenever it is forced to move by an electric shock.

It looks like you're missing a word in there, but I think you're suggesting the "forced stall", correct?

I'll go for that. Maybe 1d4 damage for a forced stall?

 

[Cleon]

It looks like you're missing a word in there, but I think you're suggesting the "forced stall", correct?

I'll go for that. Maybe 1d4 damage for a forced stall?

Dang it, it lost a "stop" when I reedited it. Better correct the previous post.

Methinks the damage ought to be more than that. If it isn't a significant amount, it's no real sacrifice. I was thinking something like 2d12 or 3d12 damage, or thereabouts. Maybe/probably reduce that for the Lesser version.

 

[Shade]

Dang it, it lost a "stop" when I reedited it. Better correct the previous post.

Methinks the damage ought to be more than that. If it isn't a significant amount, it's no real sacrifice. I was thinking something like 2d12 or 3d12 damage, or thereabouts. Maybe/probably reduce that for the Lesser version.

I was thinking of the lesser version. I could see maybe 2d8 for the greater, but I don't think it should be significant.

 

[Cleon]

I was thinking of the lesser version. I could see maybe 2d8 for the greater, but I don't think it should be significant.

I think it has to have a significant enough opportunity cost to give them a reason not to use it.

 

[Shade]

I think it has to have a significant enough opportunity cost to give them a reason not to use it.

I wasn't thinking it was a choice. I figured the construct's programming would automatically attempt to avoid hazards, and thus suffer a slight burning of the gears.

 

[Cleon]

I wasn't thinking it was a choice. I figured the construct's programming would automatically attempt to avoid hazards, and thus suffer a slight burning of the gears.

Well, every action this Construct does is automatic in that sense, since it's a mindless creature that simply follows its programming. The choices in question are performed by the programmer, not the Clockwork Warrior itself.

It doesn't answer the issue that if the burning of the gears is too "slight" it would probably be more advantageous if it always blocked Galvanized Movement. It will thereby remain in whatever tactically advantageous position its programmer chooses, and not be forced to roam hither and thither.

 

[Shade]

Well, every action this Construct does is automatic in that sense, since it's a mindless creature that simply follows its programming. The choices in question are performed by the programmer, not the Clockwork Warrior itself.

It doesn't answer the issue that if the burning of the gears is too "slight" it would probably be more advantageous if it always blocked Galvanized Movement. It will thereby remain in whatever tactically advantageous position its programmer chooses, and not be forced to roam hither and thither.

That is why I once again return to my original stance: No choice but to move, but its programming prevents it from moving through obvious detrimental areas. No damage, no choice, no need to save. It simply moves randomly away into "safe" spaces (albeit possibly through areas threatened by AoOs).

 

[Cleon]

That is why I once again return to my original stance: No choice but to move, but its programming prevents it from moving through obvious detrimental areas. No damage, no choice, no need to save. It simply moves randomly away into "safe" spaces (albeit possibly through areas threatened by AoOs).

So something like "Reroll the direction of the galvanic movement if it would enter an obvious hazard such as a pit or pool of acid. The construct's programming causes it to avoid spaces it registers as unsafe. The construct may move through areas threatened by attacks of opportunities or traps that are not included in its programming."?

I could live with that.

 

[Shade]

So something like "Reroll the direction of the galvanic movement if it would enter an obvious hazard such as a pit or pool of acid. The construct's programming causes it to avoid spaces it registers as unsafe. The construct may move through areas threatened by attacks of opportunities or traps that are not included in its programming."?

I could live with that.

Looks good!

 

[Cleon]

Looks good!

Amalgamating the changes we get:

Galvanized Movement (Ex): If a clockwork golem takes electricity damage it must succeed on a Fortitude save (DC X or the DC of the attack) or be forced to move its base speed in a random direction at the start of its next turn. This movement is a move action by the golem, so it cannot take a full round action (such as charging or a full attack) in a round it performs galvanized movement. Reroll the direction of the galvanic movement if it would enter an obvious hazard such as a pit or pool of acid. The construct's programming causes it to avoid spaces it registers as unsafe. The construct may move through areas threatened by attacks of opportunities or traps that are not included in its programming.

Is that enough for you?