What element would "radiation" be?

[Emirikol]

What element would "radiation" be in D&D? Fire?

For example, radiation from xrays, gamma rays, etc. or "plutonium."

jh

 

[HeavenShallBurn]

I've always equated radiation with the 'Vile' damage type. And I gave yugoloths immunity to it and other fiends a resistance. May vary with your campaign.

 

[Korgoth]

What element would "radiation" be in D&D? Fire?

For example, radiation from xrays, gamma rays, etc. or "plutonium."

jh

I don't think it would map exactly onto our current concept of radiation.

Radiation from earthy substances would be an effect of the element Earth. Radiation from fiery bodies would be of the element Fire, etc. It would depend on the element of the originating body, in other words.

Funny the things you wonder about in the 21st century, isn't it?

 

[Ambrus]

In a metaphysical sense, radiation usually propagates invisibly through air but can burn like fire so philosophers (assuming they are aware of it) would likely considered it a combination of air and fire; a "burning wind" of sorts. Since only it's effects are easily observable, in the form of radiation burns and poisoning, primitive folk would likely consider it to be some form of sickness caused by tainted air (much like malaria).

From a mechanical standpoint, the damage radiation causes could most easily be equated with fire damage, though I suppose a case could be made that it is as similar to electricity damage as it is to fire.

Not sure if this helps answer your question. :\

 

[megamania]

I like the Vile damage answer. Will place in the back of my mind for future reference

 

[ssampier]

Air and Fire sounds just right. I love the flavor behind it. However, I can only imagine the smart-ass player that says, "burning wind, that sounds like a bad burrito night!" :\

 

[RainOfSteel]

Might radiation equals the quasi-elemental type of Radiance?

 

[painandgreed]

Fire. Fire is the elemental of change.

 

[Darklone]

The good old Searing Light spell suddenly looks different to me...

 

[Whimsical]

In Dragonstar, radiation is its own energy which requires its own energy resistance spells to reduce.

Also,
Lasers = Fire
Concussion grenades = Sonic