Confused about holy symbols

[Aristotle]

Other implements use the weapon slot. Shields use the arm slot. The precident exists for class specific gear to use up an existing slot... I don't know that I like the idea of holy symbols skirting that precident and giving divine characters an "extra" slot.

I'm fine with standard symbols taking up either a neck or a weapon (offhand) slot, or with magic items for other slots that can be used as holy symbols.

 

[abyssaldeath]

Other implements use the weapon slot. Shields use the arm slot. The precident exists for class specific gear to use up an existing slot... I don't know that I like the idea of holy symbols skirting that precident and giving divine characters an "extra" slot.

I'm fine with standard symbols taking up either a neck or a weapon (offhand) slot, or with magic items for other slots that can be used as holy symbols.

One thing you are forgetting. You can only benefit from one Holy Symbol at a time, while every other type of implement can be dual wielded and fully utilize both powers and properties.

So, while Holy Symbols don't take up a "slot" they do have a down side compared to other implements.

 

[CapnZapp]

That's why I prefer the neck/hands solution. It brings Holy Symbols into line with the rest of the stuff, instead of having some weird ill-defined "Symbol Slot" all by itself.

 

[chaotix42]

I never even picked up on this during all my time with the PHB - I've been making my players hold their holy symbols. I guess I'll have to go back and re-read a few things... if this is true I know a paladin who is going to be very happy!

 

[cmbarona]

Ulitmately, I don't think allowing holy symbols to have their own slot really unbalances anything economy-wise. Usually, people want to focus on having as few "weapons" as possible (and let's face it, if anything, holy symbols are mechanically very similar to weapons, just like wands, rods, etc.). This is why the two-weapon Ranger faces a few difficulties keeping up in higher levels.

 

[Duelpersonality]

The problem with making a holy symbol a neck slot item is that neck slot items are one of the "required" magic items expected by the math of the system. I can't think of any reason to wear a holy symbol as a neck slot item, only to have my defenses be abysmal. The obvious solution to the problem is to just let holy symbols provide a level appropriate bonus to defenses, but then you run into the same problem of "giving them something for free."

I've run a game with a paladin and another with a cleric and I have had no problems with them wearing their holy symbols (and yes, there are plenty of other implement users in the groups with no complaints).

 

[Kordeth]

Not to mention nobody ever said you had to wear a holy symbol around your neck.

 

[Akaiku]

It exists like that so sword and shield paladins can use implement attacks (instead of having say, their weapon or shield be an implement.)

Clerics get the ability for free, as it were. I hope totems are the same way.