Scott Christian
Hero
The assessment of whether "Intimidate" is the worst skill in Dungeons & Dragons 5th Edition is subjective, as it depends on various factors, including campaign style, character build, and the Dungeon Master's storytelling approach. Here are a few points I think we need to keep in mind:
1. Versatility: Intimidate can be used in social encounters to deter or manipulate NPCs. While it may not have as many applications as skills like "Persuasion" or "Deception," it can still be valuable in certain situations. (And indeed, it might be able to be used more depending on how you look at it. I mean, we all picture the PHB picture, but maybe it can be more subtle than that. Is a dad's glare intimidation or persuasion? It doesn't necessarily make the child hate their dad just because they caught "the glare."
2. Role-Playing Opportunities: Intimidate offers a lot of role-playing opportunities. A character with high Intimidation might be the group's enforcer or the one who negotiates through fear. This can add depth to the story and create memorable moments.
3. Campaign Style: In a campaign that heavily focuses on combat and dungeon crawling, social skills like Intimidate might see less use, making them appear less useful. However, in a more intrigue-based campaign, it can be incredibly valuable.
4. Character Build: For some character builds, intimidate can be super-effective. Think barbarian or warrior.
5. DM Flexibility: The effectiveness of Intimidate also relies on the Dungeon Master's interpretation. A creative DM might reward a well-executed Intimidation attempt with unexpected benefits or steer the story in interesting directions.
So, while intimidate may not be as universally applicable as some other skills (and, to be fair, there is an argument it is just as applicable), it certainly has its place in the game. Its utility greatly depends on the campaign's focus and the player's creativity in using it. Additionally, it's essential to remember that this is a collaborative storytelling game, and skills like intimidate can lead to memorable moments and exciting character development. Whether it's the "worst" skill or not is ultimately a matter of personal preference and campaign context.
1. Versatility: Intimidate can be used in social encounters to deter or manipulate NPCs. While it may not have as many applications as skills like "Persuasion" or "Deception," it can still be valuable in certain situations. (And indeed, it might be able to be used more depending on how you look at it. I mean, we all picture the PHB picture, but maybe it can be more subtle than that. Is a dad's glare intimidation or persuasion? It doesn't necessarily make the child hate their dad just because they caught "the glare."
2. Role-Playing Opportunities: Intimidate offers a lot of role-playing opportunities. A character with high Intimidation might be the group's enforcer or the one who negotiates through fear. This can add depth to the story and create memorable moments.
3. Campaign Style: In a campaign that heavily focuses on combat and dungeon crawling, social skills like Intimidate might see less use, making them appear less useful. However, in a more intrigue-based campaign, it can be incredibly valuable.
4. Character Build: For some character builds, intimidate can be super-effective. Think barbarian or warrior.
5. DM Flexibility: The effectiveness of Intimidate also relies on the Dungeon Master's interpretation. A creative DM might reward a well-executed Intimidation attempt with unexpected benefits or steer the story in interesting directions.
So, while intimidate may not be as universally applicable as some other skills (and, to be fair, there is an argument it is just as applicable), it certainly has its place in the game. Its utility greatly depends on the campaign's focus and the player's creativity in using it. Additionally, it's essential to remember that this is a collaborative storytelling game, and skills like intimidate can lead to memorable moments and exciting character development. Whether it's the "worst" skill or not is ultimately a matter of personal preference and campaign context.
