Combat options. I like them. I like simple tweaks. If you use two hands on a single handed weapon you get +1 to damage. Common sense dictates though, if a player tries to do this with a dagger a GM is indeed permitted to embed a 4-side in the requesting player's forehead. (The main reason I carry extra on me.) I like to keep them simple though. I don't want to calculate the arch of an arrow as it leaves a welsh longbow. Here are some simple rules I like. Please add some one you use to spice up the game a bit.
+1 to damage when two hands are used on a single handed weapon
+2 to hit for rear attacks, and the defender cannot use dex bonus or shield for AC
-4 to hit invisible opponents if you know the general location
-10 to hit invisible opponents if you don't know the general location
+2 to hit stunned, prone of motionless opponents and defender cannot use dex bonus for AC
Automatic hit for sleeping or held opponents
Two weapons, I am more of a fan of the -2/-4 to hit than +1 for 1 attack, but that would be something I would discuss with players and see what they like.
Critical hits, I like making my own table. The simple way we do it though is max damage and then roll normal damage on top of it. Sometimes I like the random effects of a good hit.
That's all for now. Lunch is over and I gotta run.
I like these, elegant and simple. Especially +1 damage for wielding one-handed weapons two handed. Why didn't I think of that - my options of class based damage distinguishing between one and two hand wielding of one-handed weapons is much more cumbersome.
ReplyDeleteThese rules are all in the original DMG. Page 70 I think. So nothing creative on my part. Just a rule thief.
ReplyDeleteA dagger WAS used in 2 hands to stab down through mail armor. ;)
ReplyDeleteYeah got me there Stuart. How could I forget the double fisted, over the head plunge.
ReplyDeleteThe variable -2 to +2 "GM's Call" bonus or penalty, a powerful tool if used correctly.
ReplyDeleteRule thief? I think not, imitation is the highest form of flattery. As you say, most of your rules are taken (or modified) from DMG page 70, but I can't find your +1 for wielding one-handed weapons two handed. Anyone know where this might come from or do we give Tim full credit?
ReplyDeleteI believe I got that one from Swords & Wizardry. So again not mine. I'm flexing my theifing skills.
ReplyDelete