Q about multiple abilities on an item (did i do this right? )

[Dross]

"Similar" is really a poor word choice in my opinion. I think "mutually exclusive" would have been better.

True, as the word *similar* allows for the argument that two knowledge skills ARE enough like one another to meet this clause.

sigh, the use of *similar* requires a judgement call based on common sense, always an ikky proposition in my experience. :\

 

[mikeanite12]

If there are two multiple similar abilities on an item that takes up a slot, then you simple add the two costs together. That's why the magic item creation page did not have a cost adjustment under the "Special" category for two similar abilities that take up a body slot. This is not obvious since often we try to dig and dig for what is there, when really what's important is what isn't there in this case.

This begs the question: What is a similar ability? Well we know by the wording under "Multiple different abilities" that it is not a attack roll bonus and a spell-like ability, and it is not a saving throw bonus and a spell-like ability. You may think this tells us next to nothing, but using logic we can deduct and confirm a hypothesis. Since there is a lack of description of what a similar ability is we must logically assume that whatever a similar ability is, IS simple and intuitive. Since it was specified that an attack roll bonus and a spell-like ability are NOT similar, and since an attack roll bonus and a spell-like ability are VASTLY different, then similar must mean things that are not vastly different. Thus it is logical to assume that two different competence bonus on skill checks are indeed similar abilities considering their lack of vast differences. This is not enough to take it and run if we want to be a rule-monger, we must confirm this hypothesis. Thus I conclude with evidence.

The vest of escape:
Hidden within secret pockets of this simple silk vest are lockpicks that provide a +4 competence bonus on Open Lock checks. The vest also grants its wearer a +6 competence bonus on Escape Artist checks.
Faint conjuration and transmutation; CL 4th; Craft Wondrous Item, knock, grease; Price 5,200 gp.

+4 (open lock) --> 16 x 100 = 1600
+6 (Escape Artist) --> 36 x 100 = 3600
For a grand total of 5200 folks the exact price of the vest of escape.