D&D 5E (2014) (no more) boring shields

[samursus]

I'd simply say: when you use Parry or Protect while wielding a shield, any martial damage die (hate that name) you spend increases to d8.

I really like this nice simple idea.

 

[deleteaccount]

Shield-specific maneuvers might be good for fighters but atm I'd just allow you to sacrifice the shield to turn a critical hit into a regular hit - or maybe even halve the damage of an area attack.