Dungeon Master Forum

Kinda a dumb question, but now that I've found a place with lots of other players, I'm trying to find out the things I've always wondered about DM1.

What good are shields in DM1? I can't figure out how to get "block" or "hit" to do anything but waste a turn, and you can't even do that with them in your left hand.

I don't think they actually have a benefit. I'm sure some others have the exact answer.

My guess (and it's my guess only) is that some options like parry and block temporarily added an addition to some internal armour factor, rather than something absolute like 'no damage for x seconds'.
I'm also guessing that carrying a shield in hand would add some armour benefit like all armour does - personally I carry potion flasks : )

The only benefit I've ever had from a shield was in a DMuted dungeon...I gave it to my back members and kept using the hit/block options while in combat in a very deep (high experience) level and they gained fighter levels quite nicely : )

Most unknown options must have subtle number crunching effects that for the most part aren't noticeable.

DM2 seemed to correct this a little bit by giving most shields extra noticeable things like spells or stat increases.

Ah yes...my champions walk around with a potion flask in one hand and say..Hardcleave in the other....scares the monsters like anything!

Monster: What the heck is that "hero" doing carrying a potion flask?? HELP!!!!!!!

Lol, its not scary til it fills from nothing, then they run away.
Well, some stand around and try to figure out how the trick was done, which is when you get to hack them with the hardcleave/inquisitor.

In DM2, the shield does a good job blocking objects that have been thrown or shot at the party, like an axe or a slayer. You just have block at the right moment for it to work. May be considered a waste of time when you can just move to the side.

So you guys think I have the right idea? If I find a shield and there's a monster nearby, chuck it at the monster (ninja practice). Otherwise, leave it alone.

Actually, the chucking it idea is genius : )
I just go with the leaving it alone part myself.

I'll have to try the block in DM2 now though

personaly my 2 front line fighters use shields :P
maybe i will reconsider that though
horn of fear! hehe