Level Up (A5E) Kits vs Tools

[Anonymous3]

As per the rules, can kits (Herbalism, Poisoner etc) be swapped for Artisan tools?
My reading suggests not but would clarity help.

 

[Verall]

I’m assuming you mean proficiency?

It will depend, sometimes it will specify artisans tools, in that case no, other times it will just say tools.

Is there a specific rules interaction you’re looking at?

That aside, I don’t think many people would be bothered by making the swap if you ask first.

 

[Anonymous3]

Yes, being proficient in said tool or kit. There are certain backgrounds that list "Artisan tools" or "kits" etc.

 

[Deadmanshand]

The question is really “can you tweak backgrounds?” and the answer is yes, but perhaps with Narrator discretion. The existing backgrounds are templates for quick character creation. There are guidelines for making your own backgrounds in A5E (in O5E, most people missed that you were supposed to create your own, the templates in the books were just examples). If you can create new backgrounds, then you certainly can tweak existing ones.

 

[Verall]

Yes, being proficient in said tool or kit. There are certain backgrounds that list "Artisan tools" or "kits" etc.

Outside of background choices, the answer is no.
As an example, gpg issue 32 has new cleric subclasses, the divine hedonist grants the following
“You also gain proficiency with one set of artisan’s tools or a musical instrument of your choice.”
In this instance RAW no you would not be able to swap out for other tool proficiencies, though I would add most reasonable GMs would allow that substitution.

Do you have a specific instance you’re looking at?

 

[Anonymous3]

Thanks. That is clear.
Yeah, a player wanted Herbalist on their Marshal but was not keen on the AG's backgrounds that provided it (Hedge Witch, Hermit, Wanderer). The game being played is quite strict on the rules because it is a first play through.

 

[lichmaster]

The game being played is quite strict on the rules because it is a first play through.

Of all things, I think that swapping one tool/kit proficiency for another is among the most innocuous changes one could make to the game. It's also very easy to justify with a customized background

 

[Sepulchre]

From the AG:

Making Backgrounds
If you want to design your own background, it should include the following:
• +1 to two ability scores of your choice.
• Proficiency in two skills.
• Proficiency in two tools, two languages, or one of each.
• One connection: an acquaintance, ally, or enemy from your past.
• One memento: an item of sentimental value worth less than 30 gold.
• A background feature describing your relationship with the world. Your background feature typically provides a source of information, shelter, or financial support in a certain lifestyle.