Equipment represents any external items or natural weapons that provide an alteration to game mechanics, such as damage values, skill adjustments, or other mechanical modifications. For example, a sword might have a damage die like a d8 rolled when used in combat, while natural weapons like a grizzly bear’s claws can also be considered equipment with a damage value tied to their use. Tools such as lockpicks may give a +2 bonus to skill rolls for picking locks, and a magical healing salve could allow a character to regain life points, modifying the mechanics by restoring health. Equipment of all kinds influences a character’s ability to perform tasks or succeed in various situations by altering core mechanics.
Equipment can also come with specific requirements for their use. For instance, a shield might grant a +2 bonus to deflect a sword thrust but require an action for active defense. A breastplate might offer a similar bonus automatically without requiring the use of an action for the modifier to be applied.
Whether adjusting attack rolls, improving defense, enhancing skills, or providing other mechanical benefits, equipment plays a crucial role in shaping how characters interact with the game world and how effective they are in different situations.
Example of Initial Equipment
Player: “I’m thinking my vampire hunter should have some classic gear—like a wooden stake, a silver dagger, and maybe some holy water. What do you think?”
GM: “That sounds fitting. The wooden stake could deal 1D6 damage, but if you use it on a vampire’s heart, it’ll cause instant paralysis as well. The silver dagger could do 1D4 damage normally, but against supernatural creatures like vampires and werewolves, it’ll deal 1D6.”
Player: “Perfect. What about the holy water?”
GM: “For the holy water, let’s say it can be thrown, covering a 5-foot area. It’ll deal 1d8 damage to any undead or evil creatures it hits. You can start with three vials, but they’ll be single-use items.”
Player: “Sounds good! That gives me some solid tools to take on the undead.”