Carrying capacity can depend on Size.
A Medium character can carry a Small load without encumbrance, or a Medium load with encumbrance.
A Large character (such as a horse) can carry a Medium load without encumbrance, or a Large load with encumbrance.
This method approximates the amount of space, and never worries about calculating weight.
In my experience, encumbrance rarely comes up, except maybe when carrying an incapacitated teammate, or transporting a dragon treasure hoard. The DM can "eyeball" these kinds of situations.
If an item seems narratively awkward to carry, then the DM can request a Strength check to determine success. Such as a strong Small gnome temporarily lifting up a Large character.
So, a gnome can be super strong − but still Small. A horse can be runt but probably still able to carry a human rider. A gnome is more likely to drag a horse than carry it.
A Medium character can carry a Small load without encumbrance, or a Medium load with encumbrance.
A Large character (such as a horse) can carry a Medium load without encumbrance, or a Large load with encumbrance.
This method approximates the amount of space, and never worries about calculating weight.
In my experience, encumbrance rarely comes up, except maybe when carrying an incapacitated teammate, or transporting a dragon treasure hoard. The DM can "eyeball" these kinds of situations.
If an item seems narratively awkward to carry, then the DM can request a Strength check to determine success. Such as a strong Small gnome temporarily lifting up a Large character.
So, a gnome can be super strong − but still Small. A horse can be runt but probably still able to carry a human rider. A gnome is more likely to drag a horse than carry it.
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