TOPIC: Idea for 2019 token set

I was thinking it might slow it down, or be useless, by requiring both dex to hit and str for damage.

Wade Schwendemann wrote: I was thinking it might slow it down, or be useless, by requiring both dex to hit and str for damage.

I think you're probably right - it would just require running some numbers.

But with the point that there are thrown weapons that function in exactly this way, I don't really see much risk.

We could see if the relic and legendary throwing hammers this year seem to be causing problems.

Matthew Hayward wrote: I think it's a good idea, but one that needs to be handled cautiously to avoid accidentally causing a huge power creep.

Thoughts:

One problem with a finesse build is that you have to split stats. If you go all-STR you’ll do max damage but sacrifice to hit, unlike regular melee where STR contributes to both. That puts finesse at a disadvantage.

Historically, it’s much more likely for an encounter to prevent melee attacks (e.g. thorns, flying) than it is for range to be prevented (I can only remember high winds in Cogwind’s tower). All things equal, you’re better off with a throwing weapon than a finesse weapon from that perspective.

Leaping Attack gets around many melee restrictions. I can’t think of any way around throwing restrictions.

It would be interesting to start with something like Dagger of Throwing and see a hit/damage comparison between three builds: melee, thrown, and “finesse melee.”

It seems like they’ll be pretty close, with an edge to finesse vs throwing (because of melee token support) but melee beating them both for power (but requiring Leaping to mitigate restrictions) -

Bracers of Archery and Fire both +0/+2; for eyes, Sniper is +3/+0 vs Instant Analysis only +2/+0 ... but I haven’t studied it much beyond that

My thoughts are if there is to be a dex based melee weapon. Make it dex to hit, no strength damage bonus. Extended crit range, bonus damage on a natural 20

Maybe only do one at common or uncommon the first year and see if the low level items created any major problems.