Dex rules question

[Drawmack]

Good points though, it can definetely be played both ways, but one would assume that the "rules-right" way is the way its meant to be played.

I'm not arguing the way it is intended to be played. Simply stating that I'll continue to use it with the dex penalty being applied all around as I personally feel it makes more sense that way. I also think it's easier cause your dex bonus is always the same.

From the SRD:
Maximum Dex Bonus: This number is the maximum Dexterity bonus to AC that this type of armor allows. Heavier armors limit mobility, reducing a character's ability to dodge blows.

As it clearly states right here that by the rules this is only applied to AC their rational seems to make very little sence. Heavier armors limit mobility. Then they should limit mobility in all cases thereby effectivly reducing the dex bonus all around. Maybe this will be changed in 3.5e.

 

[Numion]

As it clearly states right here that by the rules this is only applied to AC their rational seems to make very little sence. Heavier armors limit mobility. Then they should limit mobility in all cases thereby effectivly reducing the dex bonus all around. Maybe this will be changed in 3.5e.

Hopefully not. As it is, the mithral chain shirt is the most used armor in my games; we're the plate nerfed further, no-one would use it.

 

[hong]

I was thinking more along the lines of traps as they get used a lot more IMC then magic since the party does not have a magic user.

Look at the traps again. The ones that need a Ref save typically don't need an attack roll, and vice-versa.

 

[hong]

As it clearly states right here that by the rules this is only applied to AC their rational seems to make very little sence. Heavier armors limit mobility.

That's what the reduced movement rate and armour check penalty are for.

 

[Guilt Puppy]

Re: Reflex saves... I'm in agreement that armor essentially evens this out (for instance, cover gives you a bonus to Reflex save -- so there's precedent for the general idea.) It does bring up a question, though, on things where it doesn't make sense to get an improved Reflex save (either from "balancing out" the effects of the armor, or cover, for that matter). Deflect arrows, for instance (I'm better at deflecting arrows because I'm ducking behind a table?)

Or is that a can of worms? (and a bit of a sidetrek/hi-jack, but then the original post has been answered)