Hardness

[Question]

I cant seem to find where the rules regarding hardness are used. In particular i want to know if magic ignores hardness.

 

[Thanee]

No it does not. Energy damage is halved against objects even. I think acid ignores hardness or at least has a more devastating effect against objects.

Bye
Thanee

 

[MarkB]

No it does not. Energy damage is halved against objects even. I think acid ignores hardness or at least has a more devastating effect against objects.

Acid and sonic damage affect objects "normally". The FAQ clarifies that this simply means their damage is not halved or otherwise reduced when affecting objects, as other forms of energy damage are - it does not mean they can ignore hardness.

 

[Silveras]

3.5 Players Handbook, p. 165, Smasahing an Object.

You have to read carefully, though. Thanee's reference is a common interpretation, but is contradicted by the FAQ (and a careful reading of the PH supports the FAQ, once you know what the FAQ says).

Hardness is always applied. Acid and Sonic damage are not divided, like other energy damage.

Acid: Full damage - hardness
Sonic: Full damage - hardness
Cold: 1/4 damage - hardness
Fire: 1/2 - hardness
Electricity: 1/2 damage - hardness

 

[Thanee]

Sounds good. I definitely wasn't sure about it without looking it up.

Bye
Thanee

 

[starwed]

There are specific exceptions, like how the psionic energy powers ignore hardness if you choose sonic.

 

[Question]

So it seems that ranged weapons such as arrows cannot do damage to a ship?

 

[Thanee]

I would say that's about right from a realistic point of view as well (unless you hit the sails with fire arrows or something).

Cannons are another issue, of course.

Bye
Thanee

 

[Question]

Any idea what kind of stats the sails of the ship should have?

 

[Jdvn1]

Well, rope (as well as paper and cloth) has Hardness 0 and 2hp/inch. I'd figure sails wouldn't be much stronger, though they're just bigger.

Though, leather and hide has Hardness 2 and 5hp/inch.