So in the future, you can refer people here and not have to keep answering the same questions 5000 times
![[Wink]](wink.gif)
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Q: Is this FAQ "official"?
A: Yes and no. WOTC does not live and die by the answers in here, but I have tried to make them as accurate a representation of the rules, and their intent, as I can. Sage advice, game designer clarification, boards debates, official FAQs, erratas and common sense/reason were all conglomerated together in my head to make this document. In the end you are the one who has to make the decision, and this document will hopefully help you to make an informed one.
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General Boards Questions
Q: What do all of these acronymns that I see on the boards (IMO, BAB, PHB, etc.) mean?
A: check out: > trollbill's boards Dictionary <
Q: How do I format my posts to look as cool as yours?
A: Check this link: > UBB formatting tutorial <
Q: Where do all of these cool smilies come from?
A: Here are some links:
> My Smilies <
> Plauder Smilies <
> The Castle Of Fun Collection <
> Freaky Gamers Smilie Directory <
Be careful when linking smilies that might violate the CoC (Code of Conduct). If you're in doubt, don't post it.
Q: What is the CoC (Code of Conduct)?
A: It's the document that you agreed to when you signed up. In short, it says: Post nicely and fairly.
Here is a link to it: > Code Of Conduct <
Q: Is there an online version of the PHB, DMG, etc.?
A: Sort of. Everything that has been released under the OGL (open gaming licence) is located here (including the classes, spells, monsters and lots of other stuff):
> SRD (Systems Reference Document) <
Full versions are copyright infringement and are illegal.
The official WOTC version can be found here:
> Official WOTC SRD <
Q: Who is Skip Williams (the Sage)?
A: Some guy who answers questions (and also one of the game designers who used to work for WOTC; he does freelance now - tjeck out the back of your core books and his name is listed there). The official D&D FAQ by Skip can be found here:
> Official D&D FAQ <
Q: It is my understanding that "The Sage" has errated certain things along with WotC publishing official errata for their products. Is all of this information in one place?
A: Unfortunately not. WoTC slowly compiles the errata and periodicly posts updates on their website, but to date the site has run 6-12 months behind the rulings the Sage makes in Dragon magazine and the changes presented in the class accessory books.
Here is the link to the official WOTC errata:
> Official WOTC Errata for D&D <
There is an unofficial collection of Sage responses to individuals here:
> Unofficial archive of Sage Responses to individuals <
Q: Why don't the official FAQs agree with the errata? Why is there so much discrepancy and inconsistency?
A: This is like the answer to how they get the caramel inside the Caramilk (TM, of course) Bar. We're not supposed to know why WOTC can't produce consistent errata and FAQs, we're just supposed to accept it. Baaaaaaaaah... *bleat*.... *shuffle*....
Q: Who are the WizOs?
A: They are VOLUNTEERS (i.e. they are not paid), who roam the boards and try to help make some order out of the chaos that prevails here.
Q: Then who are the people with WOTC_ before their names?
A: They are employees of WOTC who take time out of their schedules to frequent the boards.
Q: What do I need to play?
A: For players - a Player's Handbook, dice and a character sheet (which can be photocopied out of the book or found online in many places).
For the DM - a DMG, a Monster Manual, a PHB and dice.
Q: What is the difference between 2nd Edition and 3rd Edition?
A: The differences are so numerous and complex, that I started a whole thread about it here:
> 2nd ed and 3rd ed compared objectively <
Basically about 1/2 of the game was kept the same, and the setting is similar - hence the vanguards of the old tradition don't get along very well with the newer members of the D&D community. :p
Q: What is Advanced D&D?
A: It is one version of the 2nd edition printing. In 3rd edition, the Advanced was dropped from the name to alleviate confusion ("Where's the basic edition?" "Ooo... that sounds too complicated", etc).
Q: Where can I find the other FAQs?
A: > Compiled FAQ links for all WOTC boards <
__________________
Rules Questions
Q: If I have more than one attack in a round due to a high BAB (i.e. +6/+1), can I cast more than one spell?
A: No. You still only get 1 standard action for the round, and casting a spell takes a partial action. If you can get another partial action somehow (i.e. Haste), then you can cast a second spell. Quickened spells also allow for an additional spell to be cast per round.
Q: Does Haste allow me to cast more than one spell in a round?
A: Yes. It allows for one additional spell to be cast each round, as long as the additional spell has a casting time of 1 action or less.
Q: Do I get my partial action from Haste the same round as I cast it?
A: Yes. The spell takes effect as soon as you cast it, and it gives you another partial action that round.
Q: Can I move more than 5' and make multiple attacks in the same round?
A: In general, No. It takes a Full-round action to do multiple attacks in a round, and that only allows for a 5 foot step.
Exceptions: Haste, Cleave, Expert Tactician, some animals
Q: How does Two-Weapon Fighting/Ambidexterity work?
A: Pg. 124-5 of your PHB gives a full account. But as an example, we'll take an 11th level fighter. (bonuses with (*) are for the off-hand)
+11/+6/+1 is his BAB.
+5/0/-5/+1(*) is for wielding two weapons of his size and no feats
+7/+2/-3/+3(*) is for having a "light" weapon in his off hand
+7/+2/-3/+7(*) is for having Ambidexterity
+9/+4/-1/+9(*) is for having Amb. and TWPF
+9/+4/-1/+9(*)/+4(*) is for having Amb., TWPF, and Improved TWPF
Q: What about Attacks of Opportunity (AoO)? They are really confusing.
A: Things are easier if you remember the following:
For movement, you do NOT provoke an AoO:
- if all you do is move (not run) during the round and the only threatened square you are in during the round is the one you started in
- if the only movement you make is a 5' step
- if you move INTO a threatened area
- if you tumble (DC 15 or 25) THROUGH the threatened zone
- if you have 1/2 or better cover from the monster that threatens you
For a tutorial, look at this link: > Movement and Attacks of Opportunity <
All other actions that provoke AoO are clearly (for the most part) listed in the PHB.
Q: Can I make multiple AoO in one round?
A: No. Only the Combat Reflexes feat will allow you to make more than one AoO in a round.
Q: Can I make multiple AoO against the same target in one round?
A: No. The PHB specifically says so. Even Combat Reflexes does NOT let you take additional AoO against the SAME target.
Q: What is the deal with vorpal weapons?
A: On a critical hit with the weapon, the monster loses its head (effects are decided by the DM - most creatures that are subject to critical hits will die). It only works on a successful (or confirmed) critical hit.
The literal reading of the text states that it stacks with Improved Critical, Keen, etc. Some find this to be too overpowered, and the Sage has replied that using the *base* threat range of the weapon is probably a good alternative (i.e it is not affected by Keen, Improved critical, etc.) But that's up to you and your DM.
Q: If my Bard or Sorcerer has a high Charisma, does he know extra spells, or is it only spells per day?
A: Extra spells gained through high ability scores only grant extra spells per day. They do NOT grant extra spells known. There is no way in the core rules to gain extra known spells (apart from gaining levels
). There is a feat called Extra Spell that allows somone to learn one more spell of one level lower than the maximum spell level they can cast (Tome and Blood).Q: Do Bracers of Armor +1 stack with normal armor?
A: No. Bracers of armor grant an *armor* bonus, and armor also grants an *armor* bonus. And bonuses of the same type never stack (except for Dodge bonuses and unnamed bonuses). Always choose the best bonus, and only it applies.
Q: If I have Bull's Strength and Gauntlets of Ogre power, so I get the d4+1 STR and the +2 STR?
A: No. As above, bonuses of the same type do not stack. Bull's strength gives an *enhancement* bonus to strength, as do the Gauntlets of Ogre Power (even though they're from different sources). So the d4+1 will always be the better bonus (+2-5 STR) and will be applied (until it runs out... then the gauntlets kick in)
Q: OK, then does an Amulet of Natural Armor +1 work with my chain shirt?
A: Yes. The amulet grants a natural armor bonus while the chain shirt offers an armor bonus. They are different types of bonuses, so they stack.
Q: Does a +1 magical weapon get +2 to hit because of the masterwork?
A: No. The masterworking does not stack with the enhancement bonus so it's +1 to hit, +1 to damage.
Q: Does a +1 adamantite longsword get +3 to hit and damage? (+1 magic, +2 adamantite)
A: No. The magic +1 (enhancement) does not stack with the adamantite +2 (natural enhancement) bonus. These are exceptions to the "different bonuses stack" rule. So it's +2 to hit, +2 to damage.
Q: OK then, does a +1 bow with +1 arrows only get +1 to hit and damage?
A: No. That is mentioned as a specific exception on pg. 183 of the DMG. Enhancement bonuses on shields and armor also stack - see pg. 179 of the DMG.
Q: How do I make a magic item that's not in the DMG?
A: There are no hard rules, but there is a table at the back of the DMG (pg. 242, or Tome and Blood, pg. 74) that gives GUIDELINES for making unique/different magic items. As always, your DM has the final say. Some combos are too powerful to just use the formulas strictly (i.e. 2000gp for a Shield or True Strike that is always on), so be REASONABLE and your DM should allow it.
Q: Can I make my weapons better after the initial enchanting?
A: Yes. Taking a +1 sword to a +2 sword costs 6000 gp - the difference between a +1 sword (2000gp) and a +2 sword (8000gp). For weapons and armor just calculate the difference in prices. (DMG, pg. 246)
Q: Can multiple casters cooperate when making magic items?
A: Yes. In fact, some items require cooperation between spellcasters. In order to make an item you need:
a) a character with the Craft XXXXX feat (appropriate to the item you want to make) and
- enough XP to spend on the item without losing a level (1/25 of market price)
- 1/2 the market value in valuable components (to be determined by the DM)
- 8 hours per day of uninterrupted work time
- a "fairly quiet, comfortable and well-lit place in which to work" (DMG, pg. 242) If you are interrupted during the creation process, the item is ruined, and all gold/XP already spent is lost.
c) for weapons and armor, a masterwork version of the item must be used, or the enchanting will not work
So a +3, flaming, vorpal longsword has a market price of 162,330gp = 3(enhancement) + 1(flaming) + 5(vorpal))^2 *2000gp + 15 gp (longsword) + 315gp (masterworked)
- it takes 162 days to make (162,000/1000)
- it requires 81,000gp to make (162,000gp/2)
- it requires an 9th level crafter (+3 enhancement)
- it costs 6480XP to craft (162,000/25)
- it requires that the crafter provide the Finger of Death *and* Keen Edge spells once per day from some source (for the vorpal ability)
- it requires that the crafter provide either the Flame Blade, Flame Strike *or* Fireball spell once per day (for the flaming ability)
So no, they shouldn't be very common
(Other details can be found on pg. 178 of the DMG.)
The issue of caster levels and pre-reqs is an unsettled one, and a debate on the issue can be found here: > link <
Q: What about using the sidebar on pg. 243 of the DMG?
A: It is the considered opinion of most board members that using that sidebar is a really bad idea. Do so at your own risk, as it has far-reaching consequences to the world you live in.
Q: I though it only took an extra 10% to stick a second ability into a magic item, what's up with the pricings people keep giving me?
A: That has been errataed in the official DMG errata - they left off a 0. (it's 100%, not 10%)
Q: How many HD of animals can a Druid adventure with?
A: In general, a Druid can only adventure with total HD = level animal companions (HD=level/2 for Rangers). (NOTE: this was added in the second PHB printing, but it is in the first DMG printing on pg. 46)
Q: When can I take 10?
A: PHB, pg. 61
When you are not in a rush and not being threatened or distracted, you may choose to take 10.
So you can take 10 to search for a trap, and you can take 10 on disarming it as well (which does *not* guarantee success however). It means that you are doing an "average" job of the skill. Note for DMs (DMG, pg. 91):
Encourage your players to use the take 10 rule
Q: Then when can I take 20?
A: PHB, pg. 61 gives the details, which are basically
- you can't be rushed, etc. as for taking 10
- you must have 20 times the normal time required to perform the action (usually 20 rounds)
- there must be *no* penalty associated with failing the skill check
So you can take 20 on searching for traps, but you can't take 20 on disarming them (because if you fail by 5 or more the trap goes off).
Q: Do all PCs get the XP for defeating a trap?
A: Yes. All members present should get the XP.
Q: Should the PCs get XP for a trap they set off, but don't disarm?
A: Yes. They survived the "encounter" and should get XP for it.
Q: Why aren't there prices for artifacts?
A: They are so powerful and game-influencing that the DM should consider carefully the inclusion of any artifact carefully. Also, they are "priceless" due to their unique and strange powers.
Q: If by BAB is +7/+2, can I fire my bow twice?
A: Yes and no. The issue isn't firing the bow, it's reloading it. A long/short bow can be reloaded as a free action (or "not-an-action"), while crossbows require a move-equivalent, standard or full-round action to reload. So Yes for the Short/Longbows (as you can take a full-round action to get all of your attacks), No for the x-bows (unless you have some way of reloading them quickly like the Rapid Reload feat from Sword and Fist).
Q: What's the deal with Polymorphing (self or other)?
A: Well, in the current errata:
- you can't turn into undead, elementals, outsiders or constructs (unless you're already one)
- you can't turn into something that has more HD than you have levels
- you can't turn into something with more than 15 HD under any circumstance (even if you are, say, 18th level)
- you can't turn into something that is more than 1 size category larger than you
What those are is up to you and your DM (at the moment
)Q: Harm - is it really like that? Touch the monster and all but d4 HP are gone?
A: Yes. You have to get through SR too, and make a succesful touch attack. There is no official errata (and the issue is still debated), but many people have suggested modifications, while many people have found it to be OK as presented. Usually, playing with all of the core rules, as presented, will keep your game balanced as long as actually follow the rules. Every "tweak" that you make to the game affects many things - so be careful when changing things.
Q: True Strike seems too powerful. Is there an errata?
A: No. Remember that it takes a standard action to cast the spell, and it only applies to your next attack (singular) before the end of the next round. So you basically forfeit your attacks from one round to get one good hit the next. Note: a threatened critical still only happens with the unmodified die roll - True Strike doesn't effect this.
Q: What are prestige clases (PrCs)?
A: An optional rules variant that has become a mainstay of most campaigns. The DM should approve any Prestige Classes you take beforehand. They can make your character more powerful, better at what they are, or fill out their story. They provide many opportunities for players and the DM alike, and are usually safe and fun to include. An important balancing factor for many seemingly overpowered PrCs is roleplaying...
![[Eek!]](eek.gif)
Q: Can a sorcerer quicken spells?
A: Under the core rules, it is useless to do so as it takes a full round action for a sorcerer to cast a spell that has been modified by a metamagic feat. The exception is the Arcane preparation feat from FRCS. This interpretation has been clarified by the WOTC design team members as being the right one.
Q: Can you cast spells while polymorphed?
A: In general, No. Unless your form has human-like hands (if it requires S components) and can speak (for the V components) and you have access to your components/holy symbol (for M/F/DF), then no. There is a Druidic feat in Masters Of the Wild that allows them to cast spells while wildshaped, however.
Q: Can a wizard memorize spells without his spellbook?
A: In general, No. Spell mastery partially circumvents this, and you can learn spells out of a borrowed spell book (check the PHB). But without his spellbook a wizard is generally pooched. (the only exception is Read Magic, which *all* wizards can memorise without a spellbook). From the Magic Of Faerun supplement, the DC to master someone else's spellbook is 25+the highest level spell in the book - and you could then memorise spells as if it were your spellbook.
Q: Is animating undead evil?
A: Yes. from the PHB, pg. 87:
Good and evil are NOT philosophical concepts in the D&D game. They are the forces that define the cosmos.
D&D is based upon absolute ethics, so what you intend to do with the undead is irrelevant. Spells with the descriptor [Evil] are, well, evil.
Q: Is an invisible person impossible to hit?
A: No. A spot check (DC 20) will let you notice an active invisible person within 30 feet. A +20 on the DC allows you to pinpoint them accurately enough to attack them, and you can then attack with the normal 50% miss chance. They also smell, make noise and leave other tell-tale signs. Make sure to read the invisibility section in the DMG.
Q: OK then, how does Invisibility work?
A: Invisibility is an illusion that causes a physical change... i.e. it bends the light around you. So there's no [Mind-Affecting] part to it and it can't be disbelieved. A character carrying a light source would emanate light (unless they concealed it somehow.. like a pocket)
Q: Are undead affected by illusions?
A: In general, yes (most creatures are). Unless it has the descriptor [Mind-Affecting], it will usually work. If you don't believe that Invisiblity is *NOT* a mind-affecting spell, > CLICK HERE < for a good explanation.
Q: Can my wizard learn spells that aren't from his school of specialisation?
A: Yes. The wizard can learn spells of any school but his prohibited school. Note: when gaining a level and choosing his 2 free spells, one of them *must* be from his specialty school (PHB, pg. 155).
Q: How do BAB and saving throw bonuses work for multi-classing?
A: Add them all together. Most elements of multiclassing allow you to just add all of your bonuses together. The one exception to this is the Monk's U (unarmed) BAB. This bonus does not stack with BAB from any classes, only UBAB. (the exceptions to this are any classes that allow you to freely multi-class with the monk: i.e. Red Avenger from S&F)
Q: What are the class accesories?
A: They are supplements that are released to be compatible with the core rules. They are not mandatory and are always to be used at the DM's discretion (although they are 98.345% safe).
Sneak Attacks:
Q: Can a Rogue sneak attack with a ranged weapon?
A: Yes. As long as their target is denied their Dex bonus to AC, then the Rogue can use their Sneak Attack ability (and the Rogue must be within 30 feet of their target). You cannot flank with a ranged weapon (as by definition you can only flank with a melee weapon), so that condition has no effect on ranged sneak attacks.
Q: Can I Sneak Attack with a magic missile spell?
A: No, but you can make a Sneak Attack with any damaging spell which requires an *attack roll*. These are considered weaponlike spells and fall into three categories: touch attack spells, rays and energy missiles (flame arrow , etc); most combat-based feats can also be applied to these categories of weaponlike spells ("Weapon Focus: Rays", for example), as can character class powers such as Sneak Attack. (cf. Tome & Blood)
Q: Can my Rogue make a Sneak Attack with multiple shuriken?
A: No. The Sage has errata'd this, ruling that the shuriken are thrown as a single attack and therefore can deal the Sneak Attack bonus damage only once per batch of shuriken. So the general rule is: one sneak attack per "attack" (and throwing 3 shuriken is considered 1 attack - the same applies to Acid Orbs from T&B, etc.).
Q: Can I Sneak Attack twice with a double Melf's acid arrow (using the Twin Spell feat)?
A: No - for the same reason as the shuriken.
Q: So if I need a Full Attack Action to use multiple attacks, I get only one Sneak Attack per round of attacks, right?
A: No. You can make a Sneak Attack with every attack as long as your opponent remains Flanked or is otherwise denied his Dex bonus to AC (usually flat-footed is enough, but some abilities like Uncanny Dodge would negate the Sneak Attack).
--
Q: How does the CR (Challenge Rating) system work ?
A: A single monster of CR <x>, or group of monsters with total EL (Encounter Level) <x> is a good fight for a typical party of four level <x> adventurers. In general, it is assumed that such a fight will exhaust about 20% of the party's total resources (HPs, spells, limited use magic items, etc.). See pages 100-103 and 165-167 of the DMG for further details. ECL and CR are the topic of much debate due to the intrinsic incompatability of them (IMO). The Monster Manual FAQ link at the top of the post has a more comprehensive analysis - tjeck it out.
Q: How do you "fix" the bard, ranger, sorceror, wizard, cleric, druid, paladin, monk, rogue, barbarian, and fighter?
A: You don't, you play them. (In short, be careful about altering core classes until you "know what you are doing". Even then, things can go wrong).
Q: How many partial actions does it take to retrieve a potion from a belt pouch and then quaff it?
A: That depends on the DM, but it's usually a Free Action to recover the potion (especially from a Heward's Handy Haversack), and a Standard Action to quaff it.
Q: What's my BAB if I'm a Monk 1/Rogue 1/Cleric 1? Is it +0, even though I'm a third level character, or do I use the behind the scenes math to figure out a BAB of +2?
A: Due to the fact that you are getting the other 1st level powers of each class, it's best to make sure that you don't do "behind the scenes" math in addition to that. So your BAB is still +0.
Q: Can sorcerers learn healing spells?
A: No. The spell ***must*** have Wiz/Sor in the level descriptor in order to be learnable by a sorcerer. The flavour text in the PHB was added to allow sorcerers to learn spells from upcoming supplements.
Q: What happens when I use a buckler and fight with a two-handed weapon?
A: You don't get the AC bonus from the buckler unless you forfeit your attacks with your off hand. And when you do attack with your off hand, you get a -1 to hit on all attacks because of the weight of the buckler.
----
Q: What is the probability of rolling a XX using 3d6 or 4d6 drop the lowest?
A: Here you go:
code:----Roll 4d6 % 3d6 %
3 1 .08 1 .46
4 4 .31 3 1.4
5 10 .77 6 2.8
6 21 1.6 10 4.6
7 38 2.9 15 6.9
8 62 4.8 21 9.7
9 91 7.0 25 11.6
10 122 9.4 27 12.5
11 148 11.4 27 12.5
12 167 12.9 25 11.6
13 172 13.3 21 9.7
14 160 12.3 15 6.9
15 131 10.1 10 4.6
16 94 7.3 6 2.8
17 54 4.2 3 1.4
18 21 1.6 1 .46
Q: Where's the first boards FAQ?
A: You're looking at it. November 22, 2001 was when I first posted this, never expecting the FAQ loop to grow to the gargantuan proportions that it's at now - covering 30+ boards. I just wanted to stop answering the "can I cast two spells in a round if my BAB s +6/+1?" question.
Hopefully you now know the answer to that question and many more that you had never imagined...
[ November 22, 2002, 03:43 PM: Message edited by: chonjurer ]
If so, then why bothering with concentration skill (not to mention "Combat casting" feat
)Originally posted by Caterane:
Q: I am engaged in melee combat and want to cast a spell. May I take a 5ft step back out of reach to avoid a concentration check or AoO????
Yes.
If so, then why bothering with concentration skill (not to mention "Combat casting" feat
Things like readied actions from your enemies, environmental conditions (i.e. riding a horse, being grappled or strong winds) and continuous damage (i.e. Melf's Acid Arrow) can cause concentration checks as well - so it still has a lot of uses.
A: Yes. As long as their target is denied their Dex bonus to AC or are flanked, then the Rogue can use their Sneak Attack ability (and the Rogue must be within 30 feet of their target)."
You can sneak attack with a ranged weapon only if the target is denied their dex. NOT if they are flanked. Also, must be within 30 feet.
[ December 28, 2001: Message edited by: Michigan_DnDer ]
Here's one on missile weapons...
I know it is a move equivalent action for a character to draw a weapon (when base attack is +1 or more).
Does this mean that a character with the rapid shot feat cannot use thrown weapons (such as a daggar) unless they have the quick draw feat?
Here's one on the quick draw feat...
Can the quick draw feat be used to draw a shield as a free action?
Can 2 weapons and/or shield be drawn as a free action at the same time with this feat?
Here's a question on whips...
Does a ranger with a whip in one hand and a daggar in the other hand suffer an attack of opportunity for making a ranged attack, since he is still armed?
Can a ranger wield a whip in each hand using the two weapon style?
Here's one on Spiked Shields...
A ranger is mounted, fighting with a heavy lance (a reach weapon) and a spiked shield - - fighting with the 2 weapon style. This character would also has the combat reflex feat (so he can make several OoO).
Does any opponent that moves to within 5 feet of this character suffer 2 attacks of opportunity - one for leaving threat range (with the lance) and one for entering threat range (with the spiked shield)?
If this same character has the shield expert feat and successfully knocks his opponent back 5 feet with the shield, does he get a 3rd attack of opportunity (for re-entering the threat range of the lance) on this same opponent??
Has the FAQ been moved or is it still in progress here?
It's still going as a reference for anybody that wants it (although the Official FAQ has finally answered a lot of these questions and made my job easier
)Here's one on missile weapons...
I know it is a move equivalent action for a character to draw a weapon (when base attack is +1 or more).
Does this mean that a character with the rapid shot feat cannot use thrown weapons (such as a daggar) unless they have the quick draw feat?
1st note: You can move *and* draw a weapon at the same time if your BAB is +1 or higher.
That said - you can have a thrown weapon in each hand at the start of your turn. Throw one, then use a free action to move the other one into your main hand and fire again. Then you have to reload next round (which may require the Quick Draw feat or not - depending on the situation. It's up to your DM as to whether or not "reloading" is a free action or not. Daggers lined up in front of you (or in a bandolier) are free actions.)
As for the rest... I'd need my books in front of me - I'll get back to you later... or someone else can tackle them ;)
I know it is a move equivalent action for a character to draw a weapon (when base attack is +1 or more).
It is always a move-equivalent action to draw a weapon. What you're thinking of is the ability of a character with a +1 BAB to draw a weapon as a free action while moving.
Does this mean that a character with the rapid shot feat cannot use thrown weapons (such as a daggar) unless they have the quick draw feat?
Usually yes, it does mean this. Throwing multiple weapons, even when using the rapid shot feat, normally requires drawing a new weapon after each attack which is a move-equivalent action each time (without Quick Draw). You CAN have two daggers drawn already (one in each hand) and throw those two without having to draw again. But throwing more than two in one round will require the Quick Draw feat.
Can the quick draw feat be used to draw a shield as a free action?
Not if you have to strap the shield to your arm, which you normally need to do. You could only pull it out and "hold" it as a free action. Whether or not this would give any benefit is up to the DM.
Can 2 weapons and/or shield be drawn as a free action at the same time with this feat?
Two weapons? Yes.
A weapon and a shield? Only if you don't have to strap the shield to your arm, which you normally need to do.
Does a ranger with a whip in one hand and a daggar in the other hand suffer an attack of opportunity for making a ranged attack, since he is still armed?
Whether or not he's "armed" doesn't matter. He's made a ranged attack so he DOES indeed provoke an attack of opportunity.
Can a ranger wield a whip in each hand using the two weapon style?
Sure, go nuts.
A ranger is mounted, fighting with a heavy lance (a reach weapon) and a spiked shield - - fighting with the 2 weapon style. This character would also has the combat reflex feat (so he can make several OoO).
Does any opponent that moves to within 5 feet of this character suffer 2 attacks of opportunity - one for leaving threat range (with the lance) and one for entering threat range (with the spiked shield)?
No. Leaving the threat range of the lance DOES indeed provoke an attack of opportunity. Entering the threat range of the shield does NOT. Entering a threatened space NEVER provokes an attack under any circumstances. Only LEAVING a threatened space provokes an attack (such as with the lance above).
If this same character has the shield expert feat and successfully knocks his opponent back 5 feet with the shield, does he get a 3rd attack of opportunity (for re-entering the threat range of the lance) on this same opponent??
No. Merely entering a threatened space NEVER provokes an attack.
Can a ranger wield a whip in each hand using the two weapon style?
Clarification: *anybody* can use two whips. The penalties are described on the first page of this FAQ.
If this same character has the shield expert feat and successfully knocks his opponent back 5 feet with the shield, does he get a 3rd attack of opportunity (for re-entering the threat range of the lance) on this same opponent??
Actually, he would provoke it if he had moved as part of his movement for the round (because he is *leaving* the first threatened space, despite the fact that he's entering the second. It's leaving the first threatened square that provokes the AoO (except in the specific situations noted in this FAQ on page 1)).
*BUT*, and this is important, you can never make more than one AoO against the *SAME* opponent in a round - even with Combat Reflexes (read the feat description in the PHB).
[ January 08, 2002: Message edited by: chonjurer ]
A: Add them all together. Most elements of multiclassing allow you to just add all of your
bonuses together. The one exception to this is the Monk's U (unarmed) BAB. This bonus
does not stack with BAB from any classes, only UBAB. (the exceptions to this are any
classes that allow you to freely multi-class with the monk: i.e. Red Avenger from S&F)
This is true and false
Thiers a chart in the orentail adventures book that covers monk and mix class BAB stacking.
A Fighter/monk does gain the BAB of the fighters buts its tricky as they must deside how they will use the BAB, fighter base or monk. Makes a difference on how many attacks the characters get and at what BAB.
Q: Is taking certain classes to maxmize my abilites and gain access to certain class cheating? and agest the rules of the game?
A: NO, some might call you a munchin, but taking 1 level of Wizard so you can pick up arcane archer and use it with your 10 levels of druid is not cheating or breaking the rules.
Take a look at the chart for details.
http://boards.wizards.com/community/ultimatebb.php?ubb=get_topic&f=21&t=000049
Here's one that shows up daily over on the MM board?
Q: What ECL should <critter x> be? or
Q: What is the relationship between CR and level?
A: While it is not official, there are some very good guidelines at:
http://boards.wizards.com/rpg-bin/ultimatebb.cgi?ubb=get_topic&f=11 8&t=000540
Unless you have a bandoleer or a potion-belt (such as those given in the Forgotten Realms CS), which makes it a free action.
Moreover, p. 190 of the DMG, they say that drinking a potion is a standard action that provokes an AoO.
So if you were in the treatening area of two foes and you would take a potion from your bag and the drink it, you might take two AoO before being able to drink it, or one before and the second at the beginning of the process... You might not survive the drinking, after all...
Originally posted by Ainaelin:
[QB]Is it not stated in the PHB that to retrieve a stored item is a Move-equivalent action that provokes an AoO?
If you're stuck with it buried deep inside you pack, then sure. That's why I said it's a DM call...
So if you were in the treatening area of two foes and you would take a potion from your bag and the drink it, you might take two AoO before being able to drink it, or one before and the second at the beginning of the process... You might not survive the drinking, after all...
You forgot the (in)famous 5' step... ;)
Originally posted by chonjurer:
[QB]
Q: Can my wizard learn spells that aren't of from his school of specialisation?
A: Yes. The wizard can learn spells of any school but his prohibited school. Note: when gaining a level and choosing his 2 free spells, one of them *must* be from his specialty school.
[QB]
That note is news to me - is there a reference? Obviously it makes sense to take a speciality spell when you gain a level that allows you to cast a new level of spells, unless you have an appropriate scroll to scribe, but I don't recall it being a requirement, and if it were, it would slightly penalise those specialists who have only one specialist spell in some levels.
Originally posted by Riffler:
That note is news to me - is there a reference?
It's either in the section on specialisation or in the magic section where it states you get the two free spells at a new level - I don't have my books with me right now (and the SRD is missing it).
and if it were, it would slightly penalise those specialists who have only one specialist spell in some levels.[/QB]
Yeah, I have actually run across this with Abjurers, Necromancers, Enchanters and Diviners, if you only use the spells in the PHB. But who does that anyways ;)
Originally posted by chonjurer:
Q: Can a wizard memorize spells without his spellbook?
A: In general, No. Spell mastery partially circumvents this, and you can learn spells out of a borrowed spell book (check the PHB). But without his spellbook a wizard is generally pooched.
Just a minor point, which I keep forgetting. A wizard can always memorize Read Magic without having to refer to a spellbook.
It's not self-evident to all of us. :o
Originally posted by Riffler:
That note is news to me - is there a reference?
Just found my PHB - pg. 155, under Spells gained at a new level
A: Yes, (as far as I know.)
Q: If I use a ready action to: "If a hostile creature attacks me in melee, I make a melee attack against them and move back 5 ft." Can the enemy then close and attack me, considering that it has already made an attack against me when I was technically not in range? (Unless they have a reach greater than 5ft.)
A: ?
There was a large bun fight about this one about five months ago and I do not know what the answer was in the end.
What do you think chonjurer (da new man?)
Originally posted by Shadowless:
Q: If I use a ready action to: "If a hostile creature attacks me in melee, I make a melee attack against them and move back 5 ft." Can the enemy then close and attack me, considering that it has already made an attack against me when I was technically not in range? (Unless they have a reach greater than 5ft.)
A: ?
The action that triggers your return attack and moving is their attacking you - so they should get their one attack off at you.
There was a large bun fight about this one about five months ago and I do not know what the answer was in the end.
Let me guess... undecided? (because some people wanted to be able to never be attacked)
(da new man?)
That is still clarkcd's title - and always will be
(call me something else if you wish)Originally posted by chonjurer:
That is still clarkcd's title - and always will be
I was just playing, I know that clarkcd is, and always will be Da Man.
Call you something else hey? How about Chonjurer. :p
Originally posted by Shadowless:
How about Chonjurer. :p
*WHAM!*
*digdug*
Is there any official ruling on this, as the PHB is somewhat cryptic?
Q: Can Sorcerers and Bards learn spells not found on their spell-lists?
Thanks,
Neomancer
It's not cryptic, although I had to read it several times before I got it straight.
A: There are various supplements of spells for these classes and it is possible to make up a new spell. But only wizards can learn infinite spells and clerics/druids cast divine magic and automatically know all of them.
Confusing? Yes it is at first but you'll get the hang of it.
Originally posted by Neomancer:
I don't have the PHB in front of me now, but in the Sorcerer's class description and in the section on learning new spells the following question has come to light a couple of times.
Is there any official ruling on this, as the PHB is somewhat cryptic?
Q: Can Sorcerers and Bards learn spells not found on their spell-lists?
Thanks,
Neomancer
the answer is: NO. you can only learn the spells on the list of spells for your class. so if you mulitclassed, you could theoretically learn a different spell, but it would be for the other class and at that class's caster level.
Q: Can a Rogue sneak attack with a ranged weapon?
A: Yes. As long as their target is denied their Dex bonus to AC or are flanked, then the Rogue can use their Sneak Attack ability (and the Rogue must be within 30 feet of their target).
A rogue with a ranged weapon has no threat area... No threat area = no flanking... No flanking = no sneak attack.
You can tell EXACTLY where an invisible creature is by making a listen check that beats the invisible creature's move silently check by 20 or more. This is known as extraordinary success.
A ranger would be able to use two whips at once (even if that's damn near impossible in RL), but his virtual two-weapon fighting feat would not apply, since a whip is a ranged weapon. TWF only applies when fighting with melee weapons.
Originally posted by chonjurer:
A: Unless a spell has Wiz/Sor in its level description, it is NOT a Wiz/Sor spell (and thus the Sorcerer can't learn it). Plain and simple.
Okay, I've got my PHB here now.
Page 156
"Adding Spells to a Sorcerer's or Bard's Repertoire: Sorcerers and bards gain spells each time they attain new experience levels and never gain spells an other way. When you gain a new level, consult Table 3-5: Bard Spells Known or Table 3-17: Sorcerer Spells Known to learn how many spells from the appropriate spell list in Chapter 11: Spells you now know. With the DM's permission, sorcerers and bards can also select the spells they gain from new and unusual spells that they have gained some understanding of (see Spells in the sorcerer description, page 50)."
Page 50
"At each level, the sorcerer gains one or more new spells, as indicated on Table 3-17: Sorcerer Spells Known (Note: The number of spells a sorcerer knows is not affected by his Charisma bonus, if any; the numbers on Table 3-17 are fixed.) These spells can be common spells chosen from the sorcerer and wizard spells list (page 168), or they can be unusual spells that the sorcerer has gained some understanding of by study. For example, a sorcerer with a scroll or spellbook detailing an unusual arcane spell (one not on the sorcerer spell list) could select that spell as one of his new spells for achieving a new level, provided the spell is the right level. In any case, the sorcerer can't learn spells at a faster rate due to this means. It simply allows the sorcerer to occasionaly select spells that aren't found on the sorcerer and wizard spell list."
That said, it would seem to imply to me that Bards and Sorcerer's can learn arcane spells not found on their spell-lists, barring the DM's approval.
The Sorcerer does not seem to benefit from this a great deal but it appears tha the Bard would--as there are very few Bard specific arcane spells vs many wizard/sorcerer arcane spells to select from in addition to the possibility of creating new spells.
Sorry about being verbose, I just wanted to be clear that I did not add or remove anything from the above quotes.
Cheers,
Neomancer
[ February 11, 2002: Message edited by: Neomancer ]
[ February 11, 2002: Message edited by: Neomancer ]
Originally posted by Shadowless:
Q: If I use a ready action to: "If a hostile creature attacks me in melee, I make a melee attack against them and move back 5 ft." Can the enemy then close and attack me, considering that it has already made an attack against me when I was technically not in range? (Unless they have a reach greater than 5ft.)
Actually, on PHB134 it states (just after "Readying an Action", at the bottom of the first paragraph) "Only partial actions can be readied." Therefore, you could either ready an action to
A. "If a hostile creature attacks me in melee, I make a melee attack against them."
or
B. "If a hostile creature attacks me in melee, I move back 5 ft."
In the case of A, they get their attack against you. In the case of B, you stepped back before they could attack. They, however, could then step forward and smack you.
Note that while on PHB127 (under Partial Actions) it does say "Typically, you may take a 5-foot step as part of a partial action", I would personally rule that readying an action is a situation in which this rule does not apply. Since readying is a standard action (ie, you can also take a move action), it seems somewhat unfair that you would also get a 5-foot step.
Originally posted by Neomancer:
That said, it would seem to imply to me that Bards and Sorcerer's can learn arcane spells not found on their spell-lists, barring the DM's approval.
Agreed, but the requirements are left purposefully ambiguous to stop abuse. I will have you note that the Sorcerer is the only class mentioned on pg. 50, so if you want a strict reading of the rules (which I never really favour anyways), the bard couldn't benefit from it.
Originally posted by jabberwock:
Actually, on PHB134 it states (just after "Readying an Action", at the bottom of the first paragraph) "Only partial actions can be readied."
Note that while on PHB127 (under Partial Actions) it does say "Typically, you may take a 5-foot step as part of a partial action", I would personally rule that readying an action is a situation in which this rule does not apply. Since readying is a standard action (ie, you can also take a move action), it seems somewhat unfair that you would also get a 5-foot step.
And this is why I still hold that readied actions suck. They are poorly explained, poorly implemented and lead to all sorts of inconsistencies and rules-mongering over them (like your 5' step point).
We (my group) discarded them entirely and just go with common sense - and that seems to work a lot better. ;)
Originally posted by chonjurer:
Agreed, but the requirements are left purposefully ambiguous to stop abuse. I will have you note that the Sorcerer is the only class mentioned on pg. 50, so if you want a strict reading of the rules (which I never really favour anyways), the bard couldn't benefit from it.
Perhaps, however a logical reading of the aforementioned quote on page 156 would read as "(see Spells in the sorcerer description, page 50 [to understand how Bard's and Sorcerer's learn new and unusual spells].)"
I could be wrong, but it seems to be a reasonable understanding of what the text says.
This is why I was wondering if their was any official ruling on the topic?
Thanks,
Neomancer
Originally posted by chonjurer:
And this is why I still hold that readied actions suck. They are poorly explained, poorly implemented and lead to all sorts of inconsistencies and rules-mongering over them (like your 5' step point).
We (my group) discarded them entirely and just go with common sense - and that seems to work a lot better. ;)
Hey, don't shoot the messenger! Sounds good to me.
Originally posted by jabberwock:
Hey, don't shoot the messenger! Sounds good to me.
:BLAM!:
;)
Q: When crafting a magic item, does the crafter need to be able to cast the spell himself or can another person cast it for him?
I'm sure its probably in the books somewhere, I can't find it though. :o
quote: Finding All Quaternions (if you're not)Q: What's a Quaternion?
quote:Originally posted by Ivellios Nailo:A mathematical curiosity, Basically, they are the reason that we have some of the modern vector notation that we do.
quote: Finding All Quaternions (if you're not)Q: What's a Quaternion?
(i,j and k are the directional unit vectors for v = x i + y j + z k and are from quaternion algebra)
quote:Originally posted by chonjurer:Also note that not every spell on the Wiz/Sor spell list can be learned by sorcerers - while this is basically only the case with spells that are absolutely useless to sorcerers (namely, those that affect previously prepared spells), you actually need to double check in the spell description to see if your sorcerer can learn.
A: Unless a spell has Wiz/Sor in its level description, it is NOT a Wiz/Sor spell (and thus the Sorcerer can't learn it). Plain and simple.
quote:Originally posted by chonjurer:The action that triggers your return attack and moving is their attacking you - so they should get their one attack off at you.
quote:Originally posted by Shadowless:
[qb]Q: If I use a ready action to: "If a hostile creature attacks me in melee, I make a melee attack against them and move back 5 ft." Can the enemy then close and attack me, considering that it has already made an attack against me when I was technically not in range? (Unless they have a reach greater than 5ft.)
A: ?
I think what the person is trying to do is avoid MULTIPLE attacks, in which case I would say they were out of luck. A multi-attack sequence is technically ONE Full Attack action, not multiple actions. So they all technically occur simultaneously. In this instance they would take all the attacks, counterattack, and then take the FFS back.
quote:Originally posted by Power Munchkin:This is subject to some debate. The relevent text is on page 100 under the description of Crossbow, Heavy "The Two Weapon Fighting feat does not reduce these penalties because it represents skill with melee weapons, nor ranged weapons. The Ambidexterity feat lets someone avoid the -4 off-hand penalty..." the Light Crossbow description imples that weapon follows similar rules. However this is not repeated under Dart, Javelin, Net, Whip, etc. In fact, the historical use of some of these weapons (like the famous Trident and Net combo) implies that they can be used a a Two-Weapon style.
quote:[QB]A rogue with a ranged weapon has no threat A ranger would be able to use two whips at once (even if that's damn near impossible in RL), but his virtual two-weapon fighting feat would not apply, since a whip is a ranged weapon. TWF only applies when fighting with melee weapons.
Q: Can a Rogue sneak attack with a ranged weapon?
A: Yes. As long as their target is denied their Dex bonus to AC or are flanked, then the Rogue can use their Sneak Attack ability (and the Rogue must be within 30 feet of their target).
Has there been a Sage Advice on this?
I don't want to debate it here though as there are multiple threads already discussing it.
As for TWPF and crossbows.... no comment.
[ February 26, 2002, 12:40 PM: Message edited by: CrimsonCat ]
quote:Originally posted by ChaoticGod:The levels stack for the purpose of determining which Uncanny Dodge abilities he has. This is addressed in the section on multiclassed characters at the end of Chapter 3 of the PH - I don't have the book handy as I'm at work, or I could give you the page reference. The equivelant section of the SRD covers it too.
Q: A multiclassed Rogue3/Barbarian2 has Uncanny Dodge (Dex bonus to AC) twice. He also has 5 levels of two classes which provide Uncanny Dodge. Does this character have Uncanny Dodge (can't be flanked) and if so why?
quote:Originally posted by chonjurer:I don't know if anyone else brought this up yet, but sorcerors can make use of quicken spell if they take the Arcane Preparation feat from the (iirc) Forgotten Realms book...
[QB]Q: Can a sorcerer quicken spells?
A: Under the core rules, it is useless to do so as it takes a full round action for a sorcerer to cast a spell that has been modified by a metamagic feat.
[QB]
--Perusing Spikey
quote:Originally posted by rtechie:Two-weapon fighting only works with melee weapons. It's right there in the crossbow description. Thrown weapons are not melee weapons*. The only benefit to having the TWF feat with thrown weapons is that you can draw 2 weapons during your move instead of just one.However this is not repeated under Dart, Javelin, Net, Whip, etc. In fact, the historical use of some of these weapons (like the famous Trident and Net combo) implies that they can be used a a Two-Weapon style.
Has there been a Sage Advice on this?
*Daggers and other melee weapons that are also ranged weapons are not considered melee weapons while they are being thrown.
If you want to get an extra attack with a ranged weapon, take rapid shot.
--Newbie Spikey
Giving XP for a trap that is set off should have some kind of disclaimer. Otherwise, a resetting trap could be set off multiple times just to get XP. Also, there should be something about the party overcomming the trap. A pit with a ladder on the side the party is coming from hasn't been over-come if they fall into it and climb back out on the side they fell into it from.
You should also add more verbage to the shuriken entry. Weapon specialization, true strike, weapon focus, etc only apply to one shuriken. It's not only sneak attacks that just get applied to one.
The vorpal weapon entry should really reflect the real rule. Having a rule FAQ with a house rule stated as "the rule" is kind of silly. Vorpal weapons decapitate on the full critical, not just the weapon's base critical.
You really want more questions for it:
1. What happens when you have a buckler with a two handed weapon?
2. Does mind blank stop true strike or invisibility?
3. Does a paladin's mount gain feats (its a magical beast)?
4. Can monks use shields?
5. What are the magic item "slots" for animals.
6. Can you take an additional 5' step when hasted?
7. Does the fly spell work underwater?
8. Is climb/fly/burrow/swim speed affected by expiditious retreat.
9. Do you threaten an area while unarmed.
10. Are gauntlets armor for purposes of things like monk's special abilities?
11. Can a barbarian with DR 2/- negate the DR from another creature with DR 2/-?
12. Does the Bless spell negate +1 or all of an evil creatures DR?
13. 15. Do Touch Attacks = weapons for all purposes? (One example - can you Coup de grace with a Touch Attack?)
14. What can and cannot be done during time stop?
15. Can you use a "non-trip" weapon to initiate a trip attack?
16. Paladin's Mount/Blackguard’s Servant and Familiars Natural AC Improvement. (Do all these work the same way? Does the Nat AC actually get better, or is the class bonus considered like a Nat Ac bonus that does not stack?)
17. Do tiny creatures get an AoO on creatures that pass through their square?
18. Do you get an AoO if you took Total Defense?
19. Does burst damage replace or stack?
20. Can you cleave off a mirror image?
This is a list compiled by Artoomis over at ENWorld.
--Ambiguous Master Spikey
quote:Originally posted by ENB SpikeyFreak:No, it is implied in the description not actually addressed. it actually only addresses the use of a ranged only weapon by itself. ie. the hvy.crossbowquote:Originally posted by rtechie:Two-weapon fighting only works with melee weapons. It's right there in the crossbow description.However this is not repeated under Dart, Javelin, Net, Whip, etc. In fact, the historical use of some of these weapons (like the famous Trident and Net combo) implies that they can be used a a Two-Weapon style.
Has there been a Sage Advice on this?
quote:Thrown weapons are not melee weapons*. The only benefit to having the TWF feat with thrown weapons is that you can draw 2 weapons during your move instead of just one.This again is your personal interpretation. No where does it state this directly. Think of the throwing axe. I could use it in melee combat quite effectively, but its purpose is to be thrown. No where in the TWF description does it state that I can not use it as a ranged weapon.
*Daggers and other melee weapons that are also ranged weapons are not considered melee weapons while they are being thrown.
Again, read the exact wording of the crossbow description.
quote:If you want to get an extra attack with a ranged weapon, take rapid shot.
--Newbie Spikey
quote:Originally posted by ENB SpikeyFreak:And also, shields (and their enhancement bonuses) stack with physical armor (and only physical armour, not items or spells that have armour bonuses). Might also want to point out that armour enhancement bonuses increase the AC of the armour, not your AC directly.
There are also other exceptions to the stacking rules: the enhancement bonus from a bow and its ammo stack.
quote:Clearly you get the xp for overcoming the encounter, whether by disarmimg, avoiding or setting off the trap.
Giving XP for a trap that is set off should have some kind of disclaimer. Otherwise, a resetting trap could be set off multiple times just to get XP. Also, there should be something about the party overcomming the trap. A pit with a ladder on the side the party is coming from hasn't been over-come if they fall into it and climb back out on the side they fell into it from.
quote:
The vorpal weapon entry should really reflect the real rule. Having a rule FAQ with a house rule stated as "the rule" is kind of silly. Vorpal weapons decapitate on the full critical, not just the weapon's base critical.
But you might want to leave in the "suggested fix"
quote:You cannot use the bucker (and hence do not get its AC bonus for tha round) while attacking with the 2H weapon, but do get a -1 to hit due to the buckler weight. If you dont attack, but elect to do anything else that only requires one hand, you get the AC bonus.
You really want more questions for it:
1. What happens when you have a buckler with a two handed weapon?
quote:
2. Does mind blank stop true strike or invisibility?
Stops true strike from being cast by the target of the mind blank, but doesnt stop someone else casting true strike to gain a +20 insight bonus against the target of the mindblank (the caster sees their own future I assume). Invisibilty isnt affected eitherway, "See Invisibility" *is* stopped by mind blank though, and cannot detect an invisible, mind blanked person.
quote:No, a paladins mounts abiities are only those listed on the requisit page of th PHB, as are wizards and sorcerers familiers. A special mount gained via the "Leadership" (see DoTF) feat may be different.
3. Does a paladin's mount gain feats (its a magical beast)?
quote:No. But thats only by reflex
4. Can monks use shields?
quote:
5. What are the magic item "slots" for animals.
Clearly animals have at least :
1xArmour (barding)
1xfeet (horse shoes)
But magic items must be specifically made for animals to function (they only adjust for humanoid forms). In which case their locations and animals they work for are listed in the item descriptions.
quote:Only if the partial action you perform as a haste action allows a 5ft step.
6. Can you take an additional 5' step when hasted?
quote:No. It only allows movement through relativly empty space (like gasses and vacuums). If it worked underwater it would also give you a "Swim" speed.
7. Does the fly spell work underwater?
quote:
8. Is climb/fly/burrow/swim speed affected by expiditious retreat.
Only movement types that are based off your "speed" (which is short for "Tactical Speed") are affected. If the spell, ability or skill that gives you a movement of this type lists a set speed, that is the one you use. If it lists it as a multiple or fraction of your speed then you get the benefit of Expeditious retreat or similar movement enhancing or impeding spells or abilities.
quote:
9. Do you threaten an area while unarmed.
Yes, although making an unarmed attack as an AoO may in itself provoke an AoO (which happens before your attack is resolved). Note that due to the "Only one AoO rule", this is the most AoO's that can happen in this case. If you have "Improved Unarmed Strike" you do not count as "Unarmed", even when lacking a weapon.
quote:No, but using a gauntlet may impede the monks ability to use his better UAB, flurry of blows and monk unarmed damage, as gauntlets are not a Monk weapon.
10. Are gauntlets armor for purposes of things like monk's special abilities?
quote:No, the DR granted by a x/- counts against all attacks by sources of physical damage (but not spells or similar effects). It is not negated by any weapon enhancement or creature DR rating
11. Can a barbarian with DR 2/- negate the DR from another creature with DR 2/-?
quote:You mean the spell "Bless Weapon", which bypasses
12. Does the Bless spell negate +1 or all of an evil creatures DR?
the DR of evil creatures.It bypasses *all* the creaures DR, *and* is capable of striking incorporeal creatures as if it were +1.
quote:Yes, and even with a Range touch attack that deals damage , as long as the caster is adjacent to the target of the CDG. If a touch spell was already charged, you can use it in an AoO for example.
13. 15. Do Touch Attacks = weapons for all purposes? (One example - can you Coup de grace with a Touch Attack?)
quote:The caster can cast spells and leave their effects to come into play at the end of the TS. He can cast spells on himself and the effects happen immediatly.He can move and use movement spells that effect only him. He can maniplulate unattended objects, so long as the maniplulation is directly caused by his interaction. You could pull a lever that releases an anvil to fall, but it wouldnt fall till after the TS. You could use a pully to lift an anvil however. Similarly, you cannot light fuses etc unless you leave an item or spell in place to light it for you once the TS ends.
14. What can and cannot be done during time stop?
quote:Yes, although unless you have the "improved trip" feat you may provoke an AoO (If using a reach weapon on someone who is out of your reach this may be irrelevant).
15. Can you use a "non-trip" weapon to initiate a trip attack?
quote:
16. Paladin's Mount/Blackguard’s Servant and Familiars Natural AC Improvement. (Do all these work the same way? Does the Nat AC actually get better, or is the class bonus considered like a Nat Ac bonus that does not stack?)
From the SRD:
----------------QUOTE-----------
Natural Armor: This is a bonus to the servant’s natural armor rating
Natural Armor: The number listed here is an improvement to the mount's AC. It represents the preternatural toughness of a paladin's mount.
Natural Armor: This number improves the familiar's AC.
---------------UNQUOTE------------------
Although the table heading lists this as "Natural Armour" its clear that the description of the table heading does not name the bonus. Therefor it is an unamed bonus that stacks with natural armour or anything else.
quote:Yes, they get an AoO when the creature leaves their square (it is a threatened space).
17. Do tiny creatures get an AoO on creatures that pass through their square?
quote:
18. Do you get an AoO if you took Total Defense?
No. You can do nothing else but move your speed while taking this action.
quote:
19. Does burst damage replace or stack?
It replaces.
quote:
20. Can you cleave off a mirror image?
Yes. They may be Illusionary creatures, but they are creatures none the less, and take up a 5ft square besides.
This is re-inforced by the spell "Shadow Image" in FR, which gives the Mirror images HP's.
For example, you do not threaten an area while unarmed.
quote:[mind blank] Stops true strike from being cast by the target of the mind blankDoesn't make any sense.
You can only take on 5' step a round, regardless of haste.
Do you have an official source for #7,8 or 12?
You CAN take AoOs while on doing the total defensive action.
Just thought I would point that out. A lot of your answers are just interpretations that could go either way and have not been answered by the sage. (no.s 7,8 and 12).
For instance, the Bles Weapon spell's effect can easily be interpretted as meaning that it only bypasses +1 of an evil creatures DR.
--Skippy Spikey
Wow... there are a lot of wrong answers on there. I'll work on it later when I have my books with me.
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This was not intended to superscede the official FAQ, but rather to be a thread that people can point others to for quick rules clarifications that are often inquired about on these boards. I don't want to bloat it *too* much with weird rulings/rules discussions that are best discussed in individual threads on other forums.
quote:Originally posted by ENB SpikeyFreak:Then clearly you must have some source for that. I was using the definition: "A character threatens an area into which they can make a melee attack, regardless of if it is their action or not" (SRD). You can still make melee attacks when unarmed.
Justicesays: You should really put some kind of disclaimer saying that those are how you would play it or your opinion, because a lot of the answers you provided were wrong.
For example, you do not threaten an area while unarmed.
quote:Its a personal target divination spell. Seems right to me. As mind blank renders you immune to divination spells.quote:[mind blank] Stops true strike from being cast by the target of the mind blankDoesn't make any sense.
quote:The sage for 7
You can only take on 5' step a round, regardless of haste.
Do you have an official source for #7,8 or 12?
8 based on the movement section of the PHB
12 - The spell could be read either way I suppose, but hey, I like paladins!
quote:Total defense [Standard][AoO: No]
You CAN take AoOs while on doing the total defensive action.
Description: A combatant doesn't attack or perform any other activity other than moving at base speed.
Seems to prohibit attacks of Aoa, based on the fact that you arent capable of makeing melee attacks into the areas around you (for one round)
I assume you have a source?
quote:Hey, call me Mr. Liberal. I didnt think I would have to put a disclaimer based on the fact that 1) I dont have WOTC in my name 2) chonjurer will put any "correct" (whatever that means) Q&A's in the main FAQ body. 3) Its a message board, noone should take anything here as official,without checking the "offical" sources *anyway*
Just thought I would point that out. A lot of your answers are just interpretations that could go either way and have not been answered by the sage. (no.s 7,8 and 12).
For instance, the Bles Weapon spell's effect can easily be interpretted as meaning that it only bypasses +1 of an evil creatures DR.
--Skippy Spikey
[ March 08, 2002, 03:08 AM: Message edited by: Justicesays ]
Q: How exactly does chonjurer apply common sense when the fighter wants to prevent the wizard standing right in front of him from taking a 5' step backwards and casting power word kill?
Q: What does chonjurer think about the delay action?
Please enlighten us, chonjurer.
Why, you looking for a new one?
"Q: How exactly does chonjurer apply common sense when the fighter wants to prevent the wizard standing right in front of him from taking a 5' step backwards and casting power word kill?"
Well, probably the only way you can with the D&D turned based combat system. If the fighter is already in the wizards face, then most likely he has already swung and either hit or missed. On the wizards turn, he steps back 5'( or actually shifts spacing 5'because of the combat footwork)and cast his spell. The easiest way to picture it is fighter runs up to wizard, swings, misses, wizard steps back fires a spell. There ya go, common sense.
"Q: What does chonjurer think about the delay action?"
![[Dubious]](graemlins/dubious.gif)
That is weird, I thought we were doing rule clarifications from all the questions( or a least some ) that have been raised in the past, not Conjurers opinion on the rules."Please enlighten us, chonjurer."
![[NoNoNo]](graemlins/nonono.gif)
It does appear to be pretty dark there.
quote:Originally posted by Biggen Gurble:I admit I'm a bit off topic (But if I ask these questions often enough, they will become FAQs
"Q: What is chonjurer's house rule replacement for readied actions?"
Why, you looking for a new one?
<snip>
"Please enlighten us, chonjurer."
It does appear to be pretty dark there.
![[Evil Smirk]](graemlins/Up_to.gif)
)However, chonjurer has stated in this thread that he doesn't like the 'ready action' rules and uses his own house rules instead.
Seeing how chonjurer seems to consistently make intelligent remarks in these boards I figured his ready-action rules might be better than the official WotC-stamped-and-approved ones, and maybe he would share his wisdom with us. If I like them, I might use them.
I assure you, my intentions are completely honourable.
If so, how would you know if your topic was being ignored (Other that not getting posts)?
![[Bounce]](graemlins/jump.gif)
quote:Originally posted by vengeful:I missed this question, so I'll address it briefly here. If you guys want to discuss my answer, we can take it ouside by the bike racks.
"Q: What is chonjurer's house rule replacement for readied actions?"
------------
Firstly, I would like to say that we don't use battlemats or figurines. Occasionally, for the more involved combats, we'll draw on a blank piece of paper and use some dice, as we can all keep track of things in our heads and *exact* values are not of much importance to us, as the combat system was not really designed to be 100% accurate anyways. We prefer the looser combat method in *all* of my groups (but we still give rough numbers for distances, etc.).
readying: you can ready for a more general type of action. This is completely subjective, but we have not had a single problem with it yet.
No - really. For the past couple of years we haven't had a single problem with saying: I'm going to wait to see what *that* guy does. And then responding with an appropriate quasi-simultaneous action.
If it's obvious that the guy is a spellcaster and you want to interrupt his spell, but you're not sure what spell you want to use when he does cast it (because of allies and other tactical positionings/considerations), you can wait until he starts casting to decide what spell to use.
This helps, IMO, to alleviate the "penalty" for acting earlier in the round. It's also more realistic in the sense that turn-based systems don't make sense in the "he's currently standing in stasis, but 3 segments after you've acted he starts casting a spell" sense, and helps with the fluidity.
After taking your readied action, you can still take you MEA, but it happens after the other person's action, or simultaneously depending on the situation. Once again this is for continuity and fluidity reasons.
Here's a real example from one of our sessions:
P1, P2, Girallon (G) are in a campfire clearing, and P1/P2 are each about 15 feet away from the beast (it has 10' reach).
Initiative order: P1, P2, G
P1: I am going to wait to see which of us he goes for
P2: Ditto
DM: the G goes after *randomly determines with a d2* P1
P1: I start backing up, luring him towards me
DM: he seems to be faster than you are
P1: OK then, when he gets within 10' to smack me (the fact that the G had reach had already been established), I will step towards him and hit him.
[game mechanics: G moves (more than a 5' step) and makes one attack. P1 moves and makes one attack (provoking an AoO for moving through a threatened square). Attacks are made simultaneously and resolved simultaneously]
P2: I am going to move towards G and hit it
[tumbles in (MEA) and makes one attack, G dies]
This is more fluid, IMO, than P1 and P2 moving back 10' and readying a charge for when the beast attacks someone. Everybody is responding to the situation.
----------------
eg. 2
Caster is waiting to interrupt buddy's spell. Buddy decides he wants to move behind full cover, and caster responds by whacking him with a spell before he runs behind cover, and then moves as he wishes (his initiative has changed, so I don't see why he can't take his MEA).
This represents, to me, the ability of people to respond to new situations in combat and still use their readied action. "losing" your readied action should be a rare thing indeed, when you are paralysed with indecision (something that shouldbe rare for people that are constantly fighting for their lives).
Anyways, there is a heuristic argument backed with some examples and such.
quote:Originally posted by chonjurer:
Q: Is an invisible person impossible to hit?
A: No. A spot check (DC 20) will let you notice an active invisible person, and you can then attack them with the normal 50% miss chance.....Make sure to read the invisibility section in the DMG.
This is wrong! I will give you a two days to tell me why.Well time is up. It says that a spot check of 20 will give you an indication that there is something out there, providing that the invisible person is moving around and less than 30 feet away, (if it is holding still or an inanimate object the DC is 30 and 40 respectively.) However, you do not know where it is well enough to make an attack against it, (unless you just go for "pick a square any square," and get lucky.) It then says to be able to 'see' it well enough to make an attack against it, the DC is +20, making a grand total of 40 (50 or 60). And then there is still the 50% chance to miss.
You know chonjurer, I am really getting sick of cleaning up your messes. :p
[ March 31, 2002, 05:16 AM: Message edited by: Shadowless ]
quote:Originally posted by chonjurer:This has been debated more than once. Fact: The PHB does not specifically say so. It simply ends an example with the words "You may still only make one attack of opportunity per enemy." (taken from memory)
Q: Can I make multiple AoO against the same target in one round?
A: No. The PHB specifically says so. Even Combat Reflexes does NOT let you take additional AoO against the SAME target.
Some take this as a general rule (and add the words "per round" at the end), some consider it only part of the example. Skip Williams belong to the first group, and Monte Cook belong to the second. Take your pick. To my knowledge it hasn't been clarified in the official errata or FAQ.
*wonders what other messes he's left around*
Oldtimer: "You may still only make one attack of opportunity per enemy." seems pretty clear to me. Until I hear otherwise (i.e. officially from an errata or something), then I will go with the "sensical" interpretation of the rule - only one AoO per enemy.
quote:Originally posted by Oldtimer:It was [almost] clarified in the addendum to the 2nd printing PHB. Unfortunately for those who think that the 'sensible' interperetation of Combat Reflexes is Monte's, the remainder of the WotC design team apparently agrees with Skip (or those who don't agree just failed to notice the text in the addendum before it went to print).
To my knowledge it hasn't been clarified in the official errata or FAQ.
quote:Originally posted by chonjurer:There aren’t any; that was my point, although somewhat concealed.
*wonders what other messes he's left around*
quote:Originally posted by Shadowless:*fails his spot tjeck*
that was my point, although somewhat concealed.
Oh...
![[Blush]](graemlins/blush.gif)
You state incorrectly under AoO's that you don't provoke an attack of opportunity if all you do in a round is move.
Under double move the PHB explicitly states that "as with any other move...you provoke an attack of opportunity...however...the space where you begin your move is not considered threatened, and therefore enemies do not get attacks of opportunity for your moving from that space." (PHB, p.126, 2nd column, 2nd paragraph under Double Move)
t~
)Since Attacks of Opportunity are mentioned in this FAQ I would like to plug this link:
http://www.wizards.com/dnd/files/RoleModels.pdf
to a pdf-ed Dragon article on the wizards.com site explaining attacks of opportunity with examples.
It's what got me through AoO's.
Perhaps it should be prominently displayed in the FAQ.
I already plugged it on the Skills and Feats, Combat and Weapons Board, but since AoOs are also mentioned here, I think it's applicable.
Good advice is never stated too often.
Q. Who is Jack Chick?
A. The psudeonymous author of the bible tract Dark Dungeons >>Link, which paints D&D as a form of satanistic indoctrination.
quote:Q: Then when can I take 20?Wrong. You must have 20 times the amount of time it would take to roll for the check randomly. Taking 20 on a full-room search takes more time for bigger rooms.
SNIP
b) you must have 20 rounds to perform the action (2 minutes)
SNIP
NOTE: I don't have the book in front of me, so if I am spewing bovine fecal matter, please correct me.
:-)
thank you!
Minor editing/rules tjanges.
quote:And as per the Sage, here :
Q: What is the deal with vorpal weapons?
A: ....It only works on a successful critical hit that was rolled using the *base* threat range of the weapon. Keen, Improved critical, etc. do not effect this.
quote:...cogito ergo bumpo....
There seem to be two sides to this argument.
1) The burst/vorpal enhancements use the end-result threat range of the weapon (i.e. they take into account Improved Critical or Keen).
This one's technically correct.
- Added links to the magic boards FAQs, COF FAQ, and fixed some stylistic things.
- Fixed the above question to reflect the current answer to the question.
quote:I'm afraid your answer is wrong.
Q: What is Advanced D&D?
A: It is one version of the 2nd edition printing. In 3rd edition, the Advanced was dropped from the name to alleviate confusion ("Where's the basic edition?" "Ooo... that sounds too complicated", etc).
The short answer is 2nd edition is short for 2nd Edition Advanced Dungeons and Dragons.
The long answer is as follows:
Since it's initial release, there were several versions of Dungeon's and Dragon's. Each was seen as the new edition and the prior version was no longer supported.
Then, it diverged into two versions. One was called Advanced Dungeons and Dragons (later known as 1st edition). One of the biggest changes (in my opinion) of this version was the separation between class and race. This version consisted of the Player's Handbook, Dungeon Master's Guide, and Monster Manual. Later additions, such as game settings (eg Forgotten Realms) and Rules Supplements (eg Unearthed Arcana).
The other consisted version of the game, simply called Dungeons and Dragons, consisted of two boxed sets (Basic covered levels 1-3 and Expert levels 4-12). Later these boxed sets were revised and two additional boxed sets (Companion and Master covering levels up to the hard limit of 36) and rules for ascension to immortality and play as weak deities (The Immortals boxed set). The game-world that these sets were set in was expanded with 14 gazeteers, each on a different nation, including additional rules.
Time for revision occured, and a new version of Advanced Dungeons and Dragons was released, known as 2nd Edition Dungeons and Dragons. It was widely accepted as an improvement on 1st Edition. It included several rules supplements, most notably "The Complete Book of ..." (each devoted to a class or race).
However, at this time, Dungeons and Dragons (commonly referred to as Basic) also underwent a revision (including and improving on rules introduced in the gazeteer series). The new version, known as the D&D Rules Cyclopaedia was a single book that included all the rules (players and DMs), monsters, and a campaign setting. Further accessories were in the form of more material for the campaign setting (finally named Mystara).
Both Dungeons and Dragons and Advanced Dungeons and Dragons continued as two separate but active product lines, both receiving support from TSR.
At some stage, the rich Mystara Campaign World was converted to the AD&D system, and the Dungeons and Dragons line was discontinued.
A revised version of 2nd Edition Advanced Dungeons and Dragons was released, though it was still called 2nd Edition. It included the Player's Option (Skills and Powers, Combat and Tactics, Spells and Magic) and DM's Option (High Level) add-ons that broadened the rules and granted a lot more freedom. I've seen this version referred to as AD&D2½ but i don't believe the term has common acceptance.
Finally, Wizards of the Coast released a new updated version of the game. It includes elements from both the Basic version and the AD&D series, along with some logical revisions for simplification (such as a higher AC being better than a lower AC). This was initially released as Dungeons and Dragons third edition, probably so that AD&D fans didn't assume it was a revival of the Basic line. The "third edition" part was always intended to be dropped from it's title, which is why it is not prominently displayed on the cover.
This completes my short history lesson. I am sure some older gamers could give a better description of the different incarnations before the split into the two product lines (AD&D and D&D).
I don't believe that the term Advanced was dropped from the title to avoid confusion, but because there was now only one version being supported, so there was no need to differentiate it from another product line.
[ September 18, 2002, 01:52 AM: Message edited by: Doppleganger ]
[ October 04, 2002, 10:42 PM: Message edited by: Dragon Snack ]
for the prune alert.
Ok, say a ranger is armed with a short sword. He is in melee, and decides to punch his foe with his fist as his off-hand attack. Does this draw an attack of opportunity? He is not technically "unarmed", since he has a weapon and is wielding it to defend himself.
quote:Originally posted by PhaedrusXY:If you haven't noticed yet, the FAQ was taken down and is kinda on hiatus right now. I'm not sure of its future.
I've got one. I could just post a new thread, but thought it might be useful here.
Ok, say a ranger is armed with a short sword. He is in melee, and decides to punch his foe with his fist as his off-hand attack. Does this draw an attack of opportunity? He is not technically "unarmed", since he has a weapon and is wielding it to defend himself.
To answer your question, this is how I would handle it.
The Ranger would provoke an AoO only against the person he attacks unarmed. The reason being he has to bring his body close to the opponent. (pg 140 of the PHB) However if your opponent is unarmed then you would not provoke an AoO from him.
I can't tell you for sure though if thats the official or correct ruling. I tried searching for something regarding it, but I couldn't find anything.
If anyone knows the dark on it, please let me know.
[ October 31, 2002, 09:01 AM: Message edited by: 0gre ]
so if you have a question that hasn't been answered in another thread. make it a new thread.
quote:Originally posted by Prophet of Chaos:A: I believe u can only put 45 spells in a B's B B. (Don't have the DMG here)
is it possible to fit all of the spells in the PHB into one spellbook(like say a Boccob's Blessed Book)
And the player's handbook has more than 45 wizard spells.
BTW I have a question too:
Q: If I die and get reincarnate (druid spell) cast on me, and I come back to life as a creature with more than 1 HD standard, how does it work?
Do I instantly get those hit dice? If I get them, should I modify my experience and ECL with appropriate scaling (+4d8 hit dice (with extra BAB and sasves and stuff) for becoming a centaur; +5 ECL)
Do I have to make do without them? What if I'm only level 3? Could I become a centaur with only 3 levels?
And what happens to my racial bonuses (+1 attack vs goblinoids, or +2 to listen)
Hehe I know it's a big question with a long (or more than one) answer. But I like the spell, so I wanna know anyway.