The "game math" doesn't assume the PCs will be in possession of magic items or the like. So anything you give them can make them slightly more powerful to way more powerful than expected. Magic items have a set rarity: common, uncommon, rare, very rare, or legendary. A character doesn't typically find a rare magic item until around 5th level according to the DMG, but this is completely up to the DM.
Read Chapter 7 of the DMG on how to use the random treasure tables. Try them out and see how it goes. Remember, as DM, you have a practically infinite amount of was to challenge even players loaded down with gold and magic items. So don't sweat it too much.
It is possible to run campaigns at very different power levels. I believe 5E takes more tweaking at the higher magic campaign setttings, but it is possible.
I prefer 5E at its designed level.... which is relatively low magic. First level PCs don't really need *anything* more than what they started the game with. They may find some gold, or a map to a later treasure/adventure etc. First level is very short.... let them play their characters and get to 2nd level at least before getting 'stuff'. Even then, usually keep it down to things like low level potions, maybe some Splint mail armor....
Gnollbane wrote:
Mommy_Was_An_Orc has a pretty good breakdown, I’d say. I’d also pay attention to the tier information in the DMG based on rarity. I’ve been mostly adhering to that and it’s worked out fine. On the other hand, the official Adventurers’ League play is really light-handed when it comes to doling out magic items.
As for the amount of gold to hand out, that really depends on the type of game you’re running. Are you making them pay cost of living expenses? Is there stuff for them to buy other than lots of potions of healing and plate mail? Would they be the sort to purchase a business or their own stronghold?
Ralif_Redhammer wrote:
Coredump00 wrote:
Gnollbane wrote:
Mommy_was_an_Orc wrote:
Gnollbane wrote:
Gnollbane wrote:
I personally think that there is no non-magical item that is going to derail the game, and therefore there is no amount of money that I'm unwilling to give players, nor mundane item that I'd restrict them from buying.
At worst if I give them lots of money, they'll start their own fiefdom, which is fine by me.
Saeviomagy wrote:
Let the players look at the magic section in the dmg. Ask them what items they want/think are cool. Any thing they want/point out is too powerful for them at first level. They will do the work for you
Thus you don't have to worry about it. As for when to give that gear to them (becuase forshadowing is magic) ask your self If I gave this to a enemey would they be able to defeat him even with the buff the item gave? This also lets you create plot hooks as you have a list of gear you know the players want.
Interesting, I thought it was relatively light. Maybe it’s just because I’ve seen relatively few “meaty” items (I’ve not seen one magic weapon or armor given out). Also, most of the groups I’ve played with have consisted of 6 – 8 PCs, so our characters are definitely below the one magic item per level.
Mommy_was_an_Orc wrote:
Gnollbane wrote: