Limb Strength Scaling

[David Bofinger]

Large figures like centaurs and octopuses have large ST and also lots of limbs. Arguably they should have a smaller ST when they try to do something with their limbs.

Suggestion: instead of using the full ST, use 4 * ST / (number of limbs), round off, round halves down. Examples:

• An octopus of ST about 20 can use weapons of ST about 10. This is a pretty radical devaluation of the octopus but to me it feels more realistic.
• A starting PC centaur of ST 14 to 16 can use weapons of ST 9 to 11. The starting centaur is presumably on the weedy side so this doesn't bother me that much.

Maybe this has already been thoroughly discussed.

[hcobb]

Gargoyles are also six-limbed, and whataboutism the 5-limb reptile people?

[TippetsTX]

I can see carving out a special ST exception for octopi (on land, of course), but this seems unnecessary for any other race. Besides, centaurs need the reach provided by two-handed weapons.

[David Bofinger]

Originally Posted by hcobb

Gargoyles are also six-limbed, and whataboutism the 5-limb reptile people?

By all means apply the rule to them as well.

[David Bofinger]

Originally Posted by TippetsTX

I can see carving out a special ST exception for octopi (on land, of course), but this seems unnecessary for any other race.

Maybe not as critical to do it in those cases, but I think useful. And in any case probably better to have a general rule than a special exception.

A centaur whose torso is built like that of a ST 10 human really ought to be (a) capable of wielding a sword much like an ST 10 human and (b) stronger than ST 10 for other purposes.

Besides, centaurs need the reach provided by two-handed weapons.

I don't understand this. I mean, everyone *likes* having more reach, but why do they deserve/need it more than anyone else?

[JimmyPlenty]

I do like the idea of Octopi not always wielding a great axe just because they can. They are scary enough with three arms and extra hit points.

[Terquem]

Originally Posted by JimmyPlenty

I do like the idea of Octopi not always wielding a great axe just because they can. They are scary enough with three arms and extra hit points.

What are these Hit Points you speak of... just kidding

But I also agree that the more explanations for why things are different and can be changed up to make an adventure a little bit different are always a good thing

[hcobb]

"It's a seven hex dragon, with cesti."