Magical Weapons:30% Light Generation - How often does it come up for you?

[frankthedm]

Light Generation: Fully 30% of magic weapons shed light equivalent to a light spell (bright light in a 20-foot radius, shadowy light in a 40-foot radius). These glowing weapons are quite obviously magical. Such a weapon can’t be concealed when drawn, nor can its light be shut off. Some of the specific weapons detailed below always or never glow, as defined in their descriptions.

How often does this benefit / annoyance / lethal handicap come up for you?

Has it gone unnoticed until now?

Has your wizard ever borrowed a magic sword to prep spells by?

Has your orc rogue thrown or put away a glowing rapier in favor of a mundane club for a stealth attack?

Or will you still ignore this rule?

 

[shilsen]

In my game, magical weapons usually do not generate light. There have been a couple of times when players have considered getting one which does, but they invariably decide not to due to the handicaps.

 

[The Edge]

As a DM I don't use this rule, items glow as I want them to if it seems apropriate. If I did use the rule, I think that the 20-40 brightness is a bit much for most, and that candle glow should be right for lower level weps. More powerful weapons or light themed (eg, some pelor mace, etc) ones would glow more. I often give little details like a certain weapon glowing as its used or swung.

 

[Infiniti2000]

*scratches in the DMG with a permanent marker*

What rule?

 

[Demoquin]

Under creating a magic weapon, there is a 30% chance that the weapon will shed light. Another percentage to find if it will give some information as to what it does or how to use it.

 

[Scharlata]

[...]How often does this benefit / annoyance / lethal handicap come up for you?[...]

Hi!

Everytime an adventure says so, or a player creates a magic weapon with that property.

Enjoy!

 

[Evilhalfling]

right.

Have I had weapons that shed light? Yes.
Have I ever made this roll? No.

I think that shedding light is a option for the crafter, and most of the time they don't do it.

There was also a series of weapons called fungal blades, which shed light the same color and intensity as a common illumisent fungus in an underdark region. I believe the PCs sold it off when they needed to rasie a party member.

 

[silyolpooh]

ummm...

never. which seems to be the common answer.

 

[Vorput]

Ooo... this might beat out dodge applying to all enemies as the most common house rule on these forums... someone should make a poll....

 

[Wormwood]

As a DM, I decide whether a weapon generates light.

As a player, I do the same (via Craft Magic Arms & Armor)

I never roll in either case.