Steve Jackson Games Forums - View Single Post - [Martial Arts] Should a Beat prevent using a weapon to attack?

aesir23 · 08-23-2016, 03:12 PM

I use that same house rule, it's come up on these boards before.

Mechanically, it compensates for the fact that Beats require additional set-up, that feints do not (a successful parry by either party). This works best if you make Beat an improveable technique completely separate from Feint.

Realistically, if a beat works and creates an opening, that presupposes that your target has not brought their weapon back into an optimal position before your attack.

In my own HEMA practice, I've noticed that most beats have a primarily defensive purpose, with the offensive benefits just being gravy.

08-23-2016, 03:12 PM	#6
aesir23 Join Date: Oct 2007 Location: Vermont	Re: [Martial Arts] Should a Beat prevent using a weapon to attack? I use that same house rule, it's come up on these boards before. Mechanically, it compensates for the fact that Beats require additional set-up, that feints do not (a successful parry by either party). This works best if you make Beat an improveable technique completely separate from Feint. Realistically, if a beat works and creates an opening, that presupposes that your target has not brought their weapon back into an optimal position before your attack. In my own HEMA practice, I've noticed that most beats have a primarily defensive purpose, with the offensive benefits just being gravy. __________________ My ongoing thread of GURPS versions of DC Comics characters. Last edited by aesir23; 08-23-2016 at 03:18 PM. Reason: Mis-read OP, responded to the wrong question.