The old "Orb Quest" microgame & Shields

[Shostak]

Originally Posted by Drakenbow

Although it is not said in the quest, I would expect the shield to be silvered. I would not think the creators of this microgame would over look issues with a wizard carrying a shield when encounter. In the core book I know has the Iron, Silver, and Magic section on p.140.

A shield can be made with minimal iron, so I don't know that I would necessarily apply the iron penalty to spellcasting for a wizard wielding a shield.

And I am aware of the Wizard Staff has options of being a dagger or sword (preferable silvered) from p.148. The Gestures and Incantations on p.142 suggests with an IQ 2 points or higher than the spell being cast would only require one hand.

So, in your opinions can a wizard wield a shield (or non-Staff weapon) in the off hand and still cast? Does the Occult attack from a Wizard Staff imply the same limitations on IQ?

Yes, I'd absolutely allow a wizard to cast while wielding a shield, provided both hands are not needed for gestures.