D&D (2024) Longsword finesse when used 2H

[Bill Zebub]

Is the idea crazy?

Implications:

• A rogue could sneak attack with a d10 weapon, but would sacrifice two attacks with d6 weapons, which means only one chance at sneak attack
• In general elven proficiency would no longer be totally worthless
• Archers (fighters and rangers) would have a cool alternative to dual wielding
• The “unarmored swordsman” archetype would have viable builds other than Kensei

For rule symmetry it would probably make sense to just say that all Versatile weapons are finesse when used with two hands. I can’t quite picture it with axes and hammers, with their balance points at the other end, but it would open up more options and not actually break anything.

Thoughts? Am I overlooking an exploit/loophole?

 

[Charlaquin]

Elves no longer have longsword proficiency by default, and since ASIs are floating now, elves could make as much use of longsword proficiency as anyone else.

Anywho, I’m not sure two-handing really fits the image of the Dex-based fighter.

 

[Bill Zebub]

Anywho, I’m not sure two-handing really fits the image of the Dex-based fighter.

Really? Huh.

 

[TwoSix]

Anywho, I’m not sure two-handing really fits the image of the Dex-based fighter.

Not sure I agree...fast, skinny guys using big swords has been a trope for a while now.

 

[TwoSix]

Thoughts? Am I overlooking an exploit/loophole?

Can't see one. Sounds like a fun, easy change to me.

 

[Charlaquin]

Not sure I agree...fast, skinny guys using big swords has been a trope for a while now.

Oh, sure, but like… BIG swords, not regular longswords.

 

[TwoSix]

Oh, sure, but like… BIG swords, not regular longswords.

I'm A-OK with changing the rule for heavy weapons also so we can have Cloud/Sephiroth types.

 

[GMforPowergamers]

I am perfectly happy with adding finesse to longsword and removing rapier from the game (or giving it something other then being the finesse longsword)

 

[Bill Zebub]

The way I figure it, if power isn’t your thing, two hands on the hilt gives you the leverage to move it quickly.

 

[Laurefindel]

Thoughts? Am I overlooking an exploit/loophole?

I've been racking my brain for ten minutes and can't find one other than sneak attack as you mention, if you can call that an exploit. I swear I had a pretty good case against it way back then when I was messing around with a versatile fighting style, but now I can't think of it.

I'd keep it to the longsword however. If symmetry is necessary, give the versatile battleaxe "heavy" property and let it -5/+10 with GWM, and give "thrown" to the warhammer because, hum, Thor?

[edit] just notice this is the 5.5e subforum so -5/+10 no longer exist. Does "heavy" bring any direct or hidden perks that we know of in 5.5?