44_292907-bindex.qxp 6/9/08 2:27 PM Page 411

Index

AC (Armor Class) • A • alternatives to, 79 damage reduction, 216 aberrant, defined, 397 defined, 398 abilities overview, 120 of clerics, 140 powers against, 81 defined, 397 superior, 248–249 of fighters, 131 target numbers, setting, 73 of rogues, 135 accuracy, 122, 192 of wizards, 137 acid arrow, 175 ability adjustments Acrobatics, 201, 203–207 of dwarves, 146 action-denial powers, 232–233 of elves, 147 action points, 86–87, 121, 397 of , 148 Action Surge, 189, 195 of humans, 144 actions ability checks, 19, 72–73, 397 defined, 397 ability modifier, 397 minor, 77–78, 94, 397 ability scores move, 77–78, 94, 397 adjustments, 227–228 standard, 77–78, 81, 94, 397 armor choices, 216–217 actors, 345–347 by class, 127, 157–158 ad (astral diamond), 210, 398 customization, 156 AD&D (Advanced DUNGEONS & generating, 155–157 DRAGONS), 10 how they work, 151–155 adjudicating results, 307–308 increasing, 226 adjustments for race, 23 min-maxing, 294 adult red dragon (level 15 solo soldier), 387 modifiers, 153 Advanced DUNGEONS & DRAGONS of monsters, 320 (AD&D), 10 overview, 24–25, 117 adventure skill base, 123 character roles in, 29, 280–281 training compared to, 201 characteristics of, 346–347 ability scores of characters choices, 308–309 Beryn, 54 components, 13–17 Calia, 38 creating, 323–328 Chenna, 66 COPYRIGHTEDdefined, MATERIAL 13, 14 Dreggu, 56 encounter types, 71–72 Eberk, 68 enjoyment of, 351–354 Jax, 44 game rules, 17–19 Lidda, 48 joining in, 19–20 Regdar, 34, 104, 106 narration, 348–351 Shadow, 46 objectives, 12 Telsa, 58 overview, 9–11 Thomm, 64 preparing, 304 Tordek, 36 sample scenario, 330–342 44_292907-bindex.qxp 6/9/08 2:27 PM Page 412

412 Dungeons & Dragons 4th Edition For Dummies

adventurer’s kit, 219 Arneson, Dave (game developer), 10 Adventurer’s Vault, 292 artillery, 239, 240 aid another, 245, 249, 282, 397 assets of D&D, 11 Alertness, 197 assumptions, reassessing, 241 alignment of characters astral diamond (ad), 210, 398 chaotic evil alignment, 116, 276–277, 399 Astral Fire, 194, 196, 197 choices of, 116 at-will powers, 27, 81, 124, 162, 398 defined, 398 Atari game publication, 18 evil character alignment, 116, 276–277, 402 Athletics, 204, 205, 207 good character alignment, 115, 276, 403 attack rolls, 19, 72–73, 81, 119, 194, 398 lawful good character alignment, attacks 115, 276, 404 bonus, 121–122 ally movement options, 86 close, 83–84, 163, 170, 176–177, 181, 399 ancient blue dragon (level 28 solo covering, 167 artillery), 391 daily, 296 anvil of doom, 167, 357–358 damage, 25, 80, 87–88 Arcana (training), 206, 207 direct, 252 arcane, 398 melee, 133, 163 arcane characters, 27 of monsters, 319–320 arcane gate, 177, 233 opportunity attacks, 85, 133, 134, arcane implement, 137, 218, 273 243–246, 406 Arcane Reach, 194, 195 passing, 165 arcane spells, 83 powers, 27, 160, 186, 235, 255 area attack, 84, 398 ranged, 163 arm slot items, 259 as standard action, 94 armor. See also magic types of, 83–84 Beryn, 55 with weapons, 79 Calia, 39 attacks, basic Chenna, 67 Beryn, 54 choices, 217 Calia, 38 Dreggu, 57 Chenna, 66 Eberk, 69 defined, 398 fighter, 266 Dreggu, 56 Jax, 45 Eberk, 68 Lidda, 49 Jax, 44 magic, 259 Lidda, 48 overview, 215–217 magic missile, 138–139 Regdar, 35, 105, 109 options, 121–122 Shadow, 47 Regdar, 34, 104, 106 Telsa, 59 Shadow, 46 Thomm, 65 Telsa, 58 Tordek, 37 Thomm, 64 armor check penalty, 123, 201, 204 Tordek, 36 Armor Class (AC) using, 122 alternatives to, 79 avenging flame, 179 damage reduction, 216 awe strike, 374 defined, 398 overview, 120 powers against, 81 • B • superior, 248–249 backdrop for D&D, 9 target numbers, setting, 73 Backstabber, 192 Armor Proficiency, 191, 194, 196, 197 44_292907-bindex.qxp 6/9/08 2:27 PM Page 413

Index 413

bag of holding, 219 bless, 249 bait and switch, 172, 366 blinded characters, 89 Baker, Richard (author) blinding barrage, 365–366 Swordmage, 395 bloodied characters/creatures, 87, 318, 398 base damage, 122 bloodied number, 118 basic attacks. See also attacks bloodied value, 26 Beryn, 54 bloodthread armor, 273 Calia, 38 bloody path, 172 Chenna, 66 bluff defined, 398 checks, 118–119, 172, 233 Dreggu, 56 of rogues, 171, 203, 205 Eberk, 68 blur, 175 Jax, 44 bonus Lidda, 48 for ability scores, 153 magic missile, 138–139 armor, 221 options, 121–122 attack, 120–121, 249 Regdar, 34, 104, 106 charging, 242 Shadow, 46 defenses, 81 Telsa, 58 enhancement, 264, 269, 273 Thomm, 64 feats, 123, 138, 141, 187 Tordek, 36 flanking, 241 using, 122 by race, 156 bastard sword, 196, 213, 215 skill, 201 bastion of health, 181 weapons/weapon proficiency, 212, 221 Battle Cleric bookstores, 20 ability scores, 158 Booster Packs, 18 as caster/noncaster, 253 boundless endurance, 166 as character choice, 139–140 bow, 214 feats of, 195, 196 boxing, 247 overview, 62 Brawny Rogue powers, 177–179 ability scores, 158 skill package, 207 build, 168 battle grid, 91–94, 329 as character choice, 134 battle order, 78 feats of, 191 battle strategy, 237–241 powers, 169–170 Battle Wizard, 158 Shadow as, 43 battleaxe, 213 skills for, 205 battlefield control, 248 Broot (bugbear), 332, 333 beacon of hope, 181 Brutal Scoundrel, 169 beast, 398 brute strike, 165 beginning players, 3 brutes, 239 beholder eye of flame (level 13 elite buffing powers, 282–283, 398 artillery), 384 bugbears, 332, 333 believability, 307 builds benign transposition, 182 character, 131 Beryn (wizard), 43, 54–55 cleric, 62, 139–140 Bigby’s grasping hands, 177 fighter, 32, 131, 163–164 Bigby’s icy grasp, 253 number of, 159 Blackiron armor, 266 rogue, 42, 134, 168 Blade Opportunist, 190, 246 wizard, 52–53, 137 blazing skeleton (level 5 artillery), 380 bull rush, 398 44_292907-bindex.qxp 6/9/08 2:27 PM Page 414

414 Dungeons & Dragons 4th Edition For Dummies

Burning Blizzard, 194, 195 multiclassing, 297–300 burning hands, 174 overview, 3–4 buying magic items, 261–262 paragon path choices, 294–296 character defenses Beryn, 54 • C • Calia, 38 Chenna, 66 Calia (fighter), 33, 38–39 Dreggu, 56 campaign settings, 10, 305 Eberk, 68 cantrips (wizards), 138 Jax, 44 carpet of flying, 262 Lidda, 48 cartoons, 10 Regdar, 34, 104, 106 cast a spell, 398 Shadow, 46 casters, 251, 253, 399 Telsa, 58 chainmail, 221 Thomm, 64 Chainmail miniatures rules, 10 Tordek, 36 challenge encounters, 72, 325 character equipment change history (1970s), 10 armor, 215–217 Channel Divinity, 140, 141, 196, 197 gear, 218–219 chaotic evil alignment, 116, 276–277, 399 overview, 209 character, PCs (player characters) shopping, 210–211 balancing class choices, 128 upgrading, 220–221 defining, 21–27 weapons, 212–215 monsters compared to, 95–97 character feats playing, 27–29 Beryn, 54 role of, 13, 14, 29, 99 Calia, 38 selecting, 30 Chenna, 67 character ability scores Dreggu, 56 Beryn, 54 Eberk, 69 Calia, 38 Jax, 44 Chenna, 66 Lidda, 48 Dreggu, 56 Regdar, 34, 104, 106 Eberk, 68 Shadow, 46 Jax, 44 Telsa, 58 Lidda, 48 Thomm, 64 Regdar, 34, 104, 106 Tordek, 36 Shadow, 46 wizards, 193 Telsa, 58 character powers Thomm, 64 Beryn, 54–55 Tordek, 36 Calia, 39 character alignment Chenna, 67 chaotic evil alignment, 116, 276–277, 399 clerics, 141, 177–182, 373–376 choices of, 116 Dreggu, 56–57 defined, 398 Eberk, 69 evil character alignment, 116, 276–277, 402 fighters, 133–134, 163–168, 357–362 good character alignment, 115, 276, 403 Jax, 45 lawful good character alignment, 115, 276, Lidda, 49 404 monsters, 319–320 character building Regdar, 35, 105, 107–108 creature reference source, 15 rogues, 136, 168–172, 363–367 epic destiny, 296–297 Shadow, 47 min-maxing, 291–294 44_292907-bindex.qxp 6/9/08 2:27 PM Page 415

Index 415

Telsa, 59 description, 117, 399 Thomm, 65 DM tasks, 308 Tordek, 37 downed, 284–285 wizards, 138–139, 172–177, 369–372 effects on, 77, 88 character sheets episodic, 11, 12 key statistics on, 25 equipment levels, 221 overview, 22–27, 111–112 experience points, 223–225 sample, 112 feats of, 186, 187, 188 sections of, 112–125 level of, 103–108, 225–228, 263 sources of, 16–17 markers, 329 supplies of, 15 maximizing, 249 character skills min-maxing, 294 Beryn, 54 players compared with, 28 Calia, 39 roles of, 128–142, 299 Chenna, 67 victories, 12 Dreggu, 56 charging, 242–243 Eberk, 69 Charisma (Cha) Jax, 44 ability scores, 152, 155 Lidda, 48–49 of clerics, 196, 197 Regdar, 34–35, 104–105, 107 of rogues, 192 Shadow, 46 of wizards, 194 Telsa, 58 cheating, 353 Thomm, 65 checklist, adventure-building, 327 Tordek, 36–37 Chenna (cleric), 63, 66–67 character types, race of City of Brass, 262 clerics, 140 class dwarves, 145–146 ability scores by, 157–158 elves, 147–148 armor choices, 217 fighters, 131 buffing powers, 283 halflings, 148–150 of characters, 113, 123, 128–130, 160, 399 humans, 143–145 cleric, 140–141 other types, 150 description, 130–142 rogues, 134–135 dwarf, 146 wizards, 137 , 148 character weapons feats, 187 Beryn, 55 fighter, 133 Calia, 39 , 150 Chenna, 67 hit point determination, 117–118 Dreggu, 57 human, 145 Eberk, 69 overview, 23–24, 127–128 Jax, 45 powers, 161 Lidda, 49 weapons, 213 Regdar, 35, 105, 109 wizard, 137–138 Shadow, 47 class features Telsa, 59 Beryn, 54 Thomm, 65 Calia, 38 Tordek, 37 Chenna, 66 character(s). See also fighter Dreggu, 56 actions of, 19, 74–75, 77–78 Eberk, 68 battle grid placement, 93–94 Jax, 44 class of, 113, 123, 128–130, 160, 399 Lidda, 48 44_292907-bindex.qxp 6/9/08 2:27 PM Page 416

416 Dungeons & Dragons 4th Edition For Dummies

class features (continued) powers/resources, 81–84, 235–237 Regdar, 34, 104, 106 practice, 93–97 Shadow, 46 strategy, 237–241 Telsa, 58 tactics, 241–246, 321 Thomm, 64 combat advantage, 399 Tordek, 36 Combat Anticipation, 193, 198 updating, 228 Combat Reflexes, 246 class skill, 399 come and get it, 167, 361 cleave, 165 comeback strike, 167, 361 cleric command, 179, 232, 233 ability scores, 158 competitive players, 12, 346–347 armor, 216 components, 13–17 bonus feats, 187 computer games, 18 defined, 399 concealment, 400 description, 61, 62 condition, 400 divine prayers, 81 consecrated ground, 179 feats of, 185, 195–198 console games, 18 gear, 211, 218 Constitution (Con), 152, 154, 194, 196, 197 how to play the role, 62–63 Constitution score, 117–118 as leader, 29, 129 construct, 400 magic items, 268–271 Consult Mystic Sages, 261 overview, 24, 30, 139–141 Consult Oracle, 261 powers of, 27, 177–182, 373–376 Control Wizard rituals of, 256 ability scores, 158 role of, 63 feats, 193, 194–195 selecting, 63–70 overview, 52–53, 137, 175–177 skill package, 207 powers, 173, 176 weapons, 214–215 skill package, 206 who should play the role, 61–62 controller climactic encounter, 327 defined, 400 Close attacks, 83–84, 163, 170, 176–177, monsters as, 239, 240 181, 399 overview, 128–129 close powers, 254 ranged, 247 cloud of daggers, 176, 372 role of, 29 cloud of steel, 170, 172, 365 wizard as, 53, 136 color pages, 4 conversation of DM, 313–314 color spray, 176–177 cooperation among players, 12, 281–282 combat copper piece (cp), 210, 400 basics, 75–78 core mechanic, 17–19, 72, 153 challenge/superiority, 133 cost of rituals, 257 choices, 231–234 counterproductive playing, 280 conditions, 88–90 coup de grace, 400 cooperation, 281–282 cover (in combat), 245, 400 DM tasks, 314–317 covering attack, 167 encounters, 72, 325 cp (copper piece), 210, 400 engaging in, 78–81 crack the shell, 167 foes, adapting to, 247–249 crash course, 3 initiative roll during, 28 creatures, 400. See also character(s) magic in, 254 crimson edge, 364 mapping, 17 crit, 400 movement in, 84–86 critical hits, 80, 400 44_292907-bindex.qxp 6/9/08 2:27 PM Page 417

Index 417

crossbow, 215 determining, 19 crushing blow, 134, 165, 253 practice session, 97–98 cure disease, 257, 258 rulebook samples, 75 cure light wounds, 160, 180, 373 of skills, 202 cure serious wounds, 180, 181, 374 D&D Dungeon Tiles, 15 currency, 210 D&D (DUNGEONS & DRAGONS). See customization, 16, 156–157, 185 DUNGEONS & DRAGONS (D&D) cut-scenes, 350–351 D&D Insider (Web site), 10, 15, 17, 18, 111, cyclops impaler (level 14 artillery), 383 117, 150, 304 D&D Miniatures, 15, 17 D&D Miniatures Starter Set, 18 • D • D&D Player’s Handbook as background, 3 d20 dice for beginning players, 1, 5, 20 in attacks, 94 classes in, 23 battle order determination, 78 combat movement, 85 practice session, 94 names in, 22, 113 success likelihood, 16, 18, 19, 72 as reference, 15, 16 dagger, 215 RPG experience in, 18 daily attack, 296 D&D Roleplaying Game Starter Set, 17, 102 daily exploits, 164 D&D Tiles, 17, 92 daily powers deadly positioning, 170 defined, 400 deafened characters, 89 with magic items, 266 death, 87, 118 overview, 81, 124, 236–237 death knight (level 25 elite soldier), 390 replacing, 163 death saving throw, 87 selecting, 162 deathjump spider (level 4 skirmisher), 378 types of, 165 decision points, 278 damage deep cut power, 170 from attacks, 80, 87–88 defender concentrating, 248 beginning players’ choice, 128 defined, 400 defined, 401 determining, 121–122 fighter as, 29, 32–33. See also fighter effects of, 94 overview, 129 of fighters, 165 paladin as, 141. See also paladin hit points, 118 defenses ongoing, 77 alternatives, 79 rating, 212 attacker advantages, 80 reduction of, 166, 216 bonus points, 81 spells, 175 of characters, 25 dance of steel, 167 of monsters, 318 Danger Sense, 193 overview, 119–121 , 10 pairing, 154 darkleaf armor, 268 types of, 244–245 darkvision, 400 defenses of characters daunting light, 181, 375 Beryn, 54 dazed characters, 89 Calia, 38 DC (Difficulty Class) Chenna, 66 action success, 73 Dreggu, 56 for attacks, 79 Eberk, 68 defined, 401 44_292907-bindex.qxp 6/9/08 2:27 PM Page 418

418 Dungeons & Dragons 4th Edition For Dummies

defenses of characters (continued) distance in combat (movement), 85 Jax, 44 divine aid, 181 Lidda, 48 divine characters, 27 Regdar, 34, 104, 106 divine fortune, 140, 141 Shadow, 46 divine power, 179, 401 Telsa, 58 divine prayers, 81 Thomm, 64 dizzying blow, 165, 360–361 Tordek, 36 DM (). See Dungeon Defensive Advantage, 192 Master (DM) deities, 62, 116 dominated characters, 89 delay tactic, 242, 254, 282 downed characters, 284–285 destinations, specific, 85 dragon, 401 destiny of characters, 114, 297 Dragon Magazine, 18 Detect Magic skill, 206 dragonborn, 150, 401 Devastating Critical, 194, 196 , 10 Devoted Cleric Dragonlance Chronicles (Weis and Hickman), ability scores, 158 393 as caster, 253 Dragonlance Legends (Weis and Hickman), 393 feats of, 195, 196–198 dragon’s fangs, 165 overview, 62, 139–140 Dreggu (wizard), 43, 56–57 powers, 177, 180–182 dungeon building. See adventure; dungeon skill package, 207 sample Dexterity check, 119 dungeon exploration, 73–75 Dexterity (Dex) Dungeon Magazine, 18 ability scores, 152, 154 Dungeon Master 4th Edition For Dummies, 304 Acrobatics, 201 Dungeon Master (DM) armor choices, 216 adventure choices, 308–309 as feat, 190 alignment choices, 116 of rogues, 191, 192 applicable chapters, 3 of wizards, 194, 195 battle grid determinations, 78 dice character creation, 103, 113 attack rolls, 19, 72–73, 81, 119, 194, 398 defined, 401 fudging results, 353 deity choices, 116 rolling, 18, 19, 72–73, 75, 248–249 dice rolls, 75 types of, 16 difficulty class, 73 differences from other games, 11 Dungeon Magazine, 18 difficulty class (DC) entitlements, treasure/magic, 264 action success, 73 finding, 102 for attacks, 79 magic items decisions, 261 defined, 401 membership choices, 101 determining, 19 monster optimization, 318–321 practice session, 97–98 overview, 4, 303–304 rulebook samples, 75 passive perception score, 119 of skills, 202 role of, 13, 14, 95, 99, 304–308 dimension door, 175 rulings, 29 Diplomacy (encounter), 203, 206, 207, 233 skill checks, 202, 234 dire rat (level 1 brute), 379 tasks of, 309–317 dire straits, 278 team needs, 130 disguise self, 253 veto options, 117 dispel magic, 370 weight limits, 219 disruptive strike, 182 XP determinations, 224–225 44_292907-bindex.qxp 6/9/08 2:27 PM Page 419

Index 419

Dungeon Master’s Guide Telsa (wizard), 58–59 battle grid, 92 weapon choices, 213 beginning players, 5 Enchant Magic Item ritual, 262 as reference, 3, 15 enchanting items, 262 RPG experience in, 18 encounter attack, 296 as starting point, 20 encounters dungeon sample combat, 78–79, 324 adventure, 330–342 defined, 401 setup, 328–330 key to, 329–330 wrapup, 342–344 powers, 81, 124, 162, 235–236, 401 DUNGEONS & DRAGONS Basic Set, 10 types of, 325–326 DUNGEONS & DRAGONS (D&D). ending of adventure, 327 components, 13–17 Endurance, 204 game rules, 17–19 endure elements, 255 history of, 1, 10 enemy movement options, 86 joining in, 19–20 enhancement bonuses/value, objectives, 12 258, 264, 269, 273 overview, 10–11, 13 entitlements, treasure/magic, 264 plastic miniatures, 18 epic destiny, 114, 161, 228, 266, 296–297, 402 DUNGEONS & DRAGONS Roleplaying Game equipment. See also magic; outfitting Starter Set, 15, 20 characters dwarf of characters, 12, 125, 221, 263 armor, 217, 266 of Jax, 45 defined, 401 min-maxing, 294 Dreggu (wizard), 56–57 of monsters, 320 Eberk (cleric), 68–69 overview, 26 overview, 23 of Regdar, 35 race, 145–146 escape, 402 Tordek (fighter), 36–37 Evasion, 190, 192, 193, 194, 196 weapon choices, 213 even-handed treatment, 354 dwarven greaves, 258 event-based adventure, 326 dying, 87–88, 89, 118 evil character alignment, 116, 276–277, 402 exalted armor, 270 excitement, 306 • E • Expanded Spellbook, 194–195 experience points (XP) easy target, 170 achievement level, 24 Eberk (cleric), 63, 68–69, 97 defined, 402 , 305 dungeon sample, 333, 336, 338–341 EBERRON settings, 18 gaining, 223–225 eladrin, 150, 401 for level advancements, 227 elder purple worm (level 24 solo soldier), 390 of monsters, 318 elemental, 401 experienced players, 2, 3 elf exploit power, 402 accuracy, 192 exploits Calia (fighter), 38–39 of fighters, 30, 133–134, 164–167 cloak, 258 of martial characters, 27 defined, 401 of rogues, 30, 136, 168, 169, 171 overview, 23 exploration, 73–75, 312–313 race, 147–148 extended rest, 402 44_292907-bindex.qxp 6/9/08 2:27 PM Page 420

420 Dungeons & Dragons 4th Edition For Dummies

powers of, 27, 163–168, 357–362 • F • selecting, 33–40 skill package, 204 failure chances, 72 weapons, 213–214 falchion (weapon), 213 who should play the role, 31–32 fantasy world changes (campaign settings), 10 fireball, 175, 177, 251, 371 favored tactics, 279 fireball spells, 192 feats First Strike, 135, 192 acquiring, 187 flame strike, 181, 232, 374 armor choices, 217 flameburst battleaxe, 251 bonus, 138, 141 flanking, 80, 241, 242, 249, 281, 402 choices, 187–198, 228 flesh golem (level 12 elite brute), 383 defined, 402 flexibility (character), 252 description, 186 fly spell, 160 gaining, 227 foes, 238, 248, 249. min-maxing, 294 Forbiddance ritual, 257 multiclassing, 297–298 forced movement, 85 overview, 26, 123, 185 , 10, 18 weapons, 213 FORGOTTEN REALMS, Campaign Guide, 305 feats of characters FORGOTTEN REALMS Player’s Guide, 150, 292 Beryn, 54 Fortitude defense (Fort), 79, 81, 119, 120, 402 Calia, 38 free action, 77–78 Chenna, 67 free time, 317 Dreggu, 56 frost, 266 Eberk, 69 Jax, 44 Lidda, 48 Regdar, 34, 104, 106 • G • Shadow, 46 game balance, 353–354 Telsa, 58 game optimization, 4 Thomm, 64 game rules, 17–19 Tordek, 36 game sessions, typical, 99–100 wizards, 193 gamestation.net, 15 feet slot items, 260 gaming store, 305 fey, 402 gauntlets of ogre power, 262 fiery bolts, 258 gear. See also equipment; outfitting fighter characters ability scores, 158 Beryn, 55 armor, 215, 216 Calia, 39 as defender, 29 Chenna, 67 defined, 402 Dreggu, 57 description, 31, 32 Eberk, 69 feats of, 185, 188–190 Jax, 45 gear packages, 211 Lidda, 49 how to play the role, 32–33 overview, 26, 218–219 magic items, 264–266 Regdar, 35, 105, 109 martial exploits, 83 Shadow, 47 as new player role, 103–108 Telsa, 59 as noncaster, 253 Thomm, 65 in opportunity attacks, 246 Tordek, 37 overview, 24, 30, 131–134 gender equality, 117, 144 44_292907-bindex.qxp 6/9/08 2:27 PM Page 421

Index 421

Gentle Repose, 271 Hall of the Spider God. See dungeon sample gestures, 279 hammer and anvil, 182 get over here power, 168 hammer (weapon), 213 ghoul (level 5 soldier), 379 hand slot items, 260 giant spider, 342 handaxe, 214 giant’s wake, 165 handy haversack, 219 giantslayer warhammer, 253 head slot items, 260 gish, 402 Healer’s Lore, 140 goggles of night, 268 healing, 87–88, 129, 204, 207, 403 gold piece (gp), 210, 403 healing prayers, 178 Golden Rule of equipping, 264 healing strike, 181, 375 good character alignment, 115, 276, 403 healing surge good-unaligned-evil scale, 276 of clerics, 141 gp (gold piece), 210, 403 with comeback strike, 167 grab, 403 defined, 403 graph paper, 17 of fighters, 133 Great Weapon Fighter hit point restoration, 118 ability scores, 158 as ritual cost, 257 armor, 216 of rogues, 135 characters, 33 using, 81 feats of, 189–190 value, 26, 118 gear packages, 211 of wizards, 138 overview, 131, 164–166 healing word, 141, 161, 178, 235 powers, 164–165 Heavy Blade Opportunity, 246 skill package, 204 hell hound (level 7 brute), 378 weapons, 32, 133, 163 helm of battle, 258 greataxe, 213 helpless characters, 89 greatsword, 213 Hickman, Tracy (author) Greenwood, Ed (author) Dragonlance Chronicles, 393 Sword Never Sleeps, The, 396 Dragonlance Legends, 393 Guardian Fighter hit points (hp) ability scores, 158 of characters, 26 armor, 216 of clerics, 141 characters, 33 critical, 80 feats of, 189, 190 defined, 403 gear packages, 211 determining, 117–118 overview, 131, 166–168 of fighters, 133 powers, 166–167 gaining, 228 skill package, 204 of monsters, 318 weapons, 32, 133, 163 playing the game, 87–88 Gygax, Gary (game developer), 10 reducing, 232 regaining, 81 of rogues, 135 • H • of wizards, 138 hobby stores, 20, 101, 102 habitual sayings, 279 holy spark, 179 hack-and-slashers, 346–348 holy symbol, 218, 270, 403 half-elf, 150, 403 honesty, 353 “1/2 LVL” (level modifier), 113 hp (hit points). See hit points (hp) Halfling Agility, 192 Human Perseverance, 195 halflings, 22–23, 48–49, 64–65, 148–150, 403 44_292907-bindex.qxp 6/9/08 2:27 PM Page 422

422 Dungeons & Dragons 4th Edition For Dummies

humanoids, 403 Internet resources humans D&D Insider, 10, 15, 17, 18, 111, 117, 150, 304 Beryn (wizard), 54–55 for meeting players, 101 bonuses, 120–121, 123, 187 Intimidate skill, 204, 233 defined, 403 into the fray power, 166 Jax (rogue), 44–45 invisibility, 251, 253, 255 overview, 22–23 iron vanguard, 165 race, 143–145 Iron Will, 198 Regdar (fighter), 34–35, 104–108 Shadow (rogue), 46–47 skills of, 123, 202 • J • Thomm (cleric), 64–65 javelin, 214 hunger of Hadar, 182 Jax (rogue), 43, 44–45 joining in finding someone to play with, 100–102 • I • high-level characters, 103–108 ice storm, 175, 177, 370 overview, 19–20 Icewind Dale Trilogy (Salvatore), 394 typical game session, 99–100 icon usage, 4–5 jump, 252 icy terrain, 176 ignoble escape, 170 illustrations, 4 • K • imagination as limit, 29 Kathra (wizard), 25 immediate action, 78 keen weapons, 268, 292 immobilized characters, 89 key ability, 201 immortality path, 114 key statistics, 16, 25–26 immortals, 403 keyword, 404 immunities, 318 knock, 255, 258 implements, 259, 403 knockout, 172 improved initiative, 186, 192, 194–195 kobold influences on D&D, 9 dragonshield, 341 informed choices, 125 dungeon sample, 332, 334 initiative skirmisher, 94, 96–97, 98 defined, 404 dungeon sample, 332, 335, 339, 340, 341 modifier/check/log, 25, 76, 94, 404 of monsters, 318 • L • order, 241–242 lamp oil, 219 overview, 119 lance of faith, 181, 249, 374 rolls, 28 languages of monsters, 320 Insight, 118–119, 206, 207 lanterns, 219 inspiring strike, 179 lawful good character alignment, insubstantial, 404 115, 276, 404 Intelligence (Int) leader, 29, 63, 129, 139, 142, 404 ability scores, 152, 154 leaping dodge, 365 armor choices, 216 level of clerics, 196, 197 buffing powers, 283 of wizards, 194 defined, 404 Internet connection, 15 gaining, 224–228 44_292907-bindex.qxp 6/9/08 2:27 PM Page 423

Index 423

high-level sample, 103–108 overview, 257–262 hit point determination, 117–118 powers of, 162 magic items, 265, 267, 269–273 rogue, 267 modifiers, 226, 228, 404 selling, 261–262 overview, 113 wizard, 271–273 of powers, 24, 160 magic missile, 138–139, 160, 174, 215, 232, 369 ritual choices, 256 magic throwing weapon, 214 training compared to, 201 magical armor, 221 level of characters magical beast, 405 clerics, 178–181, 195 make-believe, 2, 9 fighters, 164–167 management strategy, 237 monsters, 225, 318 maneuvering, 233, 244, 252 rogues, 169, 171, 191 mannerisms, 278–279 wizards, 174, 176, 193 mantle of glory, 181, 375 levitate power, 177, 233, 252 mapping action, 17 Lidda (rogue), 43, 48–49, 122 mark, 405 Light Blades, 191 marked characters, 89, 133 Light Shield Proficiency, 216 markers light source, 218–219 in combat, 92 light spell, 218 dungeon sample, 332, 335, 339, 340 lightning bolt, 371 using, 329 line of sight blocking, 247 martial characters, 27 Linked Portal, 258 martial exploits, 83, 168 list making, 219 Martial Power, 292 longbow, 213, 214 martial powers, 163, 405 longsword, 213, 262 mass cure light wounds, 180, 181, 375 Lord of the Rings, The, (Tolkien), 1, 9, 352 master of deceit, 172 low-light vision, 404 masterwork armor, 220–221, 266, 405 lurkers, 239, 240 medium size characters, 114 melee attacks, 79, 83, 133, 163, 405 menacing behavior (opportunity attack), • M • 246, 247 message boards, 292 mace, 214–215 Mettle, 190, 196 magic milestone powers, 271, 405 baseline, 262–273 min-max, 291–294, 405 in combat, 254 mind flayer mastermind (level 18 elite defined, 404 controller), 385 as light source, 219 minions, 239, 240 overview, 251 minor action, 77–78, 94, 397 rituals, 255–257 mirror image, 370–371 spells, 252–253 modifiers MAGIC: THE GATHERING, 10 ability, 153 magic items determining, 19, 119 of characters, 124 key statistics, 25 cleric, 269–270 level, 113 defined, 404 module, 324 fighter, 265 money, 210 finding, 261 monster knowledge, 206 gear, 219, 221 , 3, 5, 15, 18, 20 min-maxing, 294 44_292907-bindex.qxp 6/9/08 2:27 PM Page 424

424 Dungeons & Dragons 4th Edition For Dummies

monster origin, 405 orb, 218, 406 monsters. See also character(s) , 94–95, 97, 98, 343–344 actions of, 71, 320–321 Orc King, The, (Salvatore), 395 DM speaking for, 306 orc raider (level 3 skirmisher), 380–381 high-level, 389–392 orcus (level 33 solo brute), 392 level of, 225 organizing games, 102 low-level, 377–381 origin type and keyword, 318 markers, 329 outfitting characters mid-level, 383–392 armor, 215–217 player characters compared to, 95–97 gear, 218–219 stats, 318–320 overview, 209 motivation, 324–325 shopping, 210–211 move action, 77–78, 94, 397 upgrading equipment, 220–221 movement, battle grid, 84–86, 92 weapons, 212–215 multiclass, 297–300, 405 outnumbering, 239 multiclass feats, 198 mummy lord (level 13 elite controller), 385 mythological world, 9 • P • paladin armor, 217 • N • as class choice, 141 name of characters, 22, 112–113 defined, 406 narration, 348–351 feats of, 185, 197 neck slot items, 259 as noncaster, 253 negotiation, 233–234 spells, 182, 253 new players sample, 103–108 paragon path night vision, 268 Arcane Reach, 194, 195 Nimble Blade, 191, 192 choices, 228, 294–296, 299 noncasters, 253 of clerics, 198 noncombat encounters, 72 defined, 406 nonplayer characters (NPCs), Dexterity, 190, 191 13, 305, 320–321, 405 Evasion, 192 note paper, 15, 17 magic items, 266 novels, 10, 18, 393–396 Mettle, 190, 196 NPCs (nonplayer characters), overview, 114 13, 305, 320–321, 405 Spell Focus, 195 number of players (worldwide), 10 utility powers, 296 passing attack, 165 passive perception score, 119 • O • path of characters, 114 PCs (player characters) objectives, 12 action points, 86 obstacles in combat, 86 balancing class choices, 128 occupied squares, 85–86 defining, 21–27, 406 ogre skirmisher (level 8 skirmisher), 380 monsters compared to, 95–97 one/two-handed weapons, 212 nonplayer characters (NPCs), 13, 305, Online resources 320–321, 405 D&D Insider, 10, 15, 17, 18, 111, 117, 150, 304 playing, 27–29 for meeting players, 101 role of, 13, 14, 29, 99 opportunity action, 78 selecting, 30 opportunity attacks, 85, 133, 134, 243–246, 406. penalty, 153, 216–217 See also attacks 44_292907-bindex.qxp 6/9/08 2:27 PM Page 425

Index 425

pencils, 15, 17 in combat, 81, 84 Perception, 118–119, 203, 204, 205, 206 defined, 406 perception checks, 97, 331 expendable, 235–237 persona building, 277–278 gaining, 226, 228 personality of characters, 116 min-maxing, 294 petrified characters, 89 movement in combat, 244 piercing strike, 170, 367 navigating through, 160–163 pit fiend (level 26 elite soldier), 390–391 overview, 159 pit fighter, 165 reading, 82–83 plane, 406 relative, 24 , 10 types of, 271 platinum piece (pp), 210, 406 power attack, 186, 190 play, continuity of, 11, 12 power source, 406 player characters (PCs) powers of character types action points, 86 clerics, 141, 177–182, 373–376 balancing class choices, 128 fighters, 133–134, 163–168, 357–362 defining, 21–27, 406 monsters, 319–320 monsters compared to, 95–97 rogues, 136, 168–172, 363–367 nonplayer characters (NPCs), 13, 305, wizards, 138–139, 172–177, 369–372 320–321, 405 powers of specific characters playing, 27–29 Beryn, 54–55 role of, 13, 14, 29, 99 Calia, 39 selecting, 30 Chenna, 67 players, 28, 76, 345–348 Dreggu, 56–57 Player’s Handbook Eberk, 69 as background, 3 Jax, 45 for beginning players, 1, 5, 20 Lidda, 49 classes in, 23 Regdar, 35, 105, 107–108 combat movement, 85 Shadow, 47 names in, 22, 113 Telsa, 59 as reference, 15, 16 Thomm, 65 RPG experience in, 18 Tordek, 37 “players seeking players” posts, 101 pp (platinum piece), 210, 406 playing the game PRACTICAL GUIDE series, 18 action points, 86–87 Practical Guide to Dragons (Trumbauer), 394 combat, 75–81, 84–86, 88–90 practice session dice, 72–73 battle grid/markers, 90–93 dungeon exploration, 73–75 practice combat, 93–97 hit points, healing, dying, 87–88 story elements, 97–98 power use, 81–84 prayer rest and recovery, 88 cleric powers as, 141 skill challenges, 87 of clerics, 27, 30, 177, 178–181 understanding D&D, 71–72 defined, 406 positioning strike, 172 precise strike, 358 Potent Opportunity, 246 pregenerated characters, 3 potion, 260, 406 premise, 324–325, 328–329 power preparation, 349 at-will, 27, 81, 124, 162, 398 prerequisite, 406 attack types, 83–84 Press the Advantage, 192 buffing, 283 priest’s shield, 179 of characters, 12, 27, 124 prismatic beams, 175 44_292907-bindex.qxp 6/9/08 2:27 PM Page 426

426 Dungeons & Dragons 4th Edition For Dummies

prismatic burst, 175, 177 ranged weapon, 122. See also specific weapons prisoners, 332 ranger profession (class), 127 armor, 217 prone characters, 89 as class choice, 141 props, 351–352 defined, 407 protection, 253 feats of, 197 publications, adventure, 305, 309 as noncaster, 253 pull, 85, 406 spells, 182 push, 85, 406 as striker, 130 puzzle-solvers, 346–347 , 10 reach, 407 reaping strike, 96, 165, 358 • Q • reckless strike, 165 reconnaissance, 253 quarterstaff, 215 Reflex defense (Ref), 73, 79, 81, 119, 120, 407 quest, 324 Regdar (fighter) attack bonus, 122 characteristics of, 34–35 • R • defenses, 120–121 R.A. Salvatore’s War of the Spider Queen, 394 overview, 33 race practice session, 96 ability adjustments, 156 sample for new players, 103–108 of characters, 114, 123 Reliable exploits, 164 class choices, 127 Religion, 207 defined, 407 Remove Affliction, 258 feats, 187, 189 reputation of characters, 12 overview, 22–23, 143 resistance, 253, 282, 318, 407 powers, 161 resounding weapon, 270 race of character types resources, expendable, 235–237 clerics, 140 rest, short, 408 dwarves, 145–146 rest/recovery, 88 elves, 147–148 restrained characters, 89 fighters, 131 retreating, 234 halflings, 148–150 reward and risk, 353 humans, 143–145 righteous brand, 179, 242 other types, 150 righteous smite, 182 rogues, 134–135 rings, 260 wizards, 137 riposte strike, 170 racial traits risk and reward, 353 Calia, 38 ritual casting, 138, 141, 255 Chenna, 67 rituals, 207, 218, 255–257, 271 Dreggu, 56 rogue Eberk, 68–69 ability scores, 158 Lidda, 48 defined, 407 Telsa, 58 description, 41, 42 Tordek, 36 feats of, 190–193 Raging Storm, 194 gear, 211, 218 Raise Dead, 256–257, 258 how to play the role, 42–43 range, 407 magic items, 267–268 range penalty, 122 martial exploits, 83 ranged attacks, 79, 83, 163, 407 as noncaster, 253 44_292907-bindex.qxp 6/9/08 2:27 PM Page 427

Index 427

overview, 24, 30, 134–136 short rest, 408 powers of, 27, 168–172, 363–367 shortbow, 213 selecting, 43–50 silver piece (sp), 210, 408 skill package, 204–205 site-based adventure, 326 as striker, 29, 130 situation, evaluating, 237–238 tactics, 135 size of characters/monsters, 114, 318 who should play the role, 41–42 skeleton, 336 role, defined, 407 skill checks roleplaying armor choices, 216–217 overview, 28 computing, 201 with style, 275–280 definition of, 19 table manners, 285–289 perception, 97 working together, 280–285 success likelihood, 72–73 roleplaying game (RPG), 1, 9, 18 of wizards, 206 Roleplaying Gamers Association, 101 skills rope, 218, 219 challenges, 87, 315 round, 407 clerics, 141 RPG (roleplaying game), 1, 9, 18 difficulty class, 202 run, 407 fighters, 133 monsters, 320 overview, 26, 122–123, 199–203 • S • packages of, 203–207 rogues, 136 sacred flame, 181, 376 wizards, 138 Salvatore, R.A. (author) skills of specific characters Icewind Dale Trilogy, 394 Beryn, 54 Orc King, The, 395 Calia, 39 sample starting gear, 211 Chenna, 67 saving throw (save), 408 Dreggu, 56 scenario, sample, 73–74, 95–97, 330–342 Eberk, 69 scorching burst, 174 Jax, 44 scroll, 408 Lidda, 48–49 seal of warding, 181 Regdar, 34–35, 104–105, 107 searing light, 181, 255 Shadow, 46 second chance, 192 Telsa, 58 second implement, 195 Thomm, 65 second wind, 81, 88, 244, 408 Tordek, 36–37 sending (ritual), 258 skirmishers, 239, 240 senses, 318 slaying strike, 170, 367 sequence, combat, 78–79 sleep, 177, 252, 371 serpent dance strike, 359 slide movement, 85, 408 setting (scenery), 349–351 sling, 214, 215 shadow, 408 slippery mind, 172 Shadow (rogue), 43, 46–47, 95 slot items, 259–260 shadow stride, 170, 172 slowed characters, 89 shield, 175, 177, 190, 216, 372 sly flourish, 171, 364 shield of faith, 181 small size characters, 114 shift battlefield action, 84, 167, 241, 244, sneak attack, 135, 168 254, 408 social interactions, 71–72, 102, 278, 325–326 shock sphere, 174 soldiers, 239 shopping (outfitting characters), 210–211 soundtrack, 352 44_292907-bindex.qxp 6/9/08 2:27 PM Page 428

428 Dungeons & Dragons 4th Edition For Dummies

sp (silver piece), 210, 408 ranger as, 141 space validity, 85 rogues as, 43, 134 special abilities, 25 role of, 29 special traits warlock as, 141 dwarves, 146 structure during play, 72, 73 elves, 147–148 stunned characters, 90 halflings, 149 Sun Tzu, 231 humans, 144 sunrod, 219 spectral ram, 174, 175 supplies, 15 speech pattern, 279 sure strike, 92, 93, 167 speed, 25, 84, 121, 319 surprise attack, 182 spell surprise knockdown, 186 casting, 398 surprised characters, 90 defined, 408 suspense, 307 selecting, 252–253 sustain, 409 of wizards, 27, 30, 172, 174–176 sweeping blow, 360 Spell Focus, 194, 195 sword spellbook, 138, 218 bastard sword, 196, 213, 215 Spellstorm Mage, 177 greatsword, 213 spider, 342 longsword, 213,262 spiked chain, 213 Sword Never Sleeps, The, (Greenwood), 396 spinning sweep, 165 Swordmage (Baker), 395 spiritual weapon, 181, 249, 281 splitting up (in defense), 247 squares, movement in, 85–86 • T • stack, 408 table manners, 285–289 staff, 218, 273, 408 tactics, 239–240, 321 staff of the war mage, 273 “take 10,” 409 stalwart guard, 168 taking turns, 27–28, 76 standard action, 77–78, 81, 94, 397 target numbers and difficulty class (DC) standard array, 155–156 action success, 73 starting point, 20 for attacks, 79 statistics, 16, 25–26, 122 defined, 401 Stealth, 203, 204, 205, 233 determining, 19 stinking cloud, 247 practice session, 97–98 stirge (level 1 lurker), 377 rulebook samples, 75 Storm Dragon (Wyatt), 394 of skills, 202 storm giant (level 24 elite controller), 391 tarrasque (level 30 solo brute), 391 storm of blows, 167 team needs/resources, 128, 130, 236, 258, story elements, 97–98 280–285 storytelling, 12 teleport power, 254 strategy, combat, 237–241 television programs, 10 Streetwise skill, 204 Telsa (wizard), 43, 58–59, 95–96 Strength (Str) Temple of Elemental Evil, 326 ability scores, 152, 154 terrain, difficult, 85, 86 of clerics, 196, 197 territorial control, 246 of fighters, 189 thicket of blades, 165 maximizing, 293 thievery, 205 strengthen the faithful, 179 thieves’ tools, 218 striker Thomm (cleric), 63, 64–65 beginning players’ choice, 128 threat, non-existent, 239, 240 defined, 408 throwing hammer, 213, 214 overview, 130 44_292907-bindex.qxp 6/9/08 2:27 PM Page 429

Index 429

thunder wave, 176 utility spells, 175, 177, 253 thunderlance, 372 tide of iron, 167, 362 , 150, 409 • V • Tolkien, J.R.R. (author) versatility, increasing, 293 Lord of the Rings, The, 1, 9, 352 victory conditions, 12, 17 , 326 video games, 18 topple over, 170 villains. See specific characters; specific torches, 219 monsters Tordek (fighter), 33, 36–37 vocation (class), 127 tornado strike, 172, 363–364 voice pattern, 279 torturous strike, 170 voidsoul specter (level 23 lurker), 390 Total Defense, 244 vrock demon (level 13 skirmisher), 385 Toughness, 193, 194, 195, 196, 197 training, 123, 203 trick strike, 172 Trickster Rogue • W • ability scores, 158 wailing ghost (level 12 controller), 384 build, 134, 168 waist slot items, 260 characters, 43 walk in combat, 84, 92 feats of, 191 walking wounded, 172 powers, 170–172 wall of fire, 247, 253 skills for, 205 wall of fog, 247 Tripping Chain, 246 wand, 218, 409 Trumbauer, Lisa Trutkoff (author) Wand of Accuracy, 194 Practical Guide to Dragons, 394 war devil (level 22 brute), 389 TSR, Inc., 10 war troll (level 14 soldier), 386 tumble exploit, 160, 170, 367 War Wizard turn, 78, 94–95. See also taking turns builds, 137 turn undead, 140, 141 feats of, 193–194 two-handed weapon, 409 gear packages, 211 powers, 173–175 skill package, 206 • U • wargames as inspiration, 10 warhammer, 213, 215, 253 umber hulk (level 12 elite soldier), 384 warlock unaligned characters, 115, 277, 409 armor, 217 unarmed strike, 409 as caster, 253 unbalancing attack power, 170 as class choice, 141 unbreakable power, 166, 168, 360 defined, 409 unconscious characters, 90 feats of, 197 undead, 409 line of sight blocking, 247 unyielding avalanche, 167 spells, 182 upgrading character equipment, 220–221 as striker, 130 utility powers warlord 4th edition changes, 255 armor, 217 attack powers compared with, 160–161 as class choice, 142 of clerics, 181 defined, 409 damage mitigation, 166 feats of, 197 in dangerous situations, 168 as leader, 129 epic destiny choices, 297 as noncaster, 253 overview, 124 spells, 182 paragon path, 296 44_292907-bindex.qxp 6/9/08 2:27 PM Page 430

430 Dungeons & Dragons 4th Edition For Dummies

warplate armor, 221 armor, 215 weakened characters, 90 bonus feats, 187 weakness, character, 293 as caster, 253 Weapon Focus as controller, 29, 128–129 clerics, 196, 198 defined, 410 fighters, 189 description, 51, 52 paladins, 197 feats of, 185, 193–195 rangers, 197 gear, 211, 218 rogues, 191 how to play the role, 52–53 warlords, 197 line of sight blocking, 247 weapon group, 409 magic items, 271–273 Weapon Proficiency, 122, 213, 215 overview, 24, 30, 136–139 weapons. See also magic powers of, 27, 172–177, 369–372 cleric, 139, 196 rituals of, 256 fighter, 134, 163, 164, 166, 189, 266 role of, 53 magical, 221 selecting, 53–60 melee, 121–122, 213 skills, 123, 205–206 one/two-handed, 133 weapons, 215 overview, 212–215 who should play the role, 51–52 ranged, 122 , Inc. rogue, 134, 135, 168, 191 4th edition, 1 for small/medium characters, 114 message boards, 292 wizard choice, 136 publications, 18, 305, 393–396 weapons of specific characters supplies from, 17 Beryn, 55 TSR purchase, 10 Calia, 39 wondrous items, 260 Chenna, 67 working together, 280–285 Dreggu, 57 the world, 410 Eberk, 69 world building, 304–305 Jax, 45 wrathful thunder, 179 Lidda, 49 Wyatt, James (author) Regdar, 35, 105, 109 Storm Dragon, 394 Shadow, 47 Telsa, 59 Thomm, 65 • X • Tordek, 37 XP (experience points) web, 232, 252 achievement level, 24 Web sites defined, 402 D&D Insider, 10, 15, 17, 18, 111, 117, 150, 304 dungeon sample, 333, 336, 338–341 for meeting players, 101 gaining, 223–225 weight of armor/gear, 216–217, 219 for level advancements, 227 Weis, Margaret (author) of monsters, 318 Dragonlance Chronicles, 393 Dragonlance Legends, 393 werewolf (level 8 brute), 379 White Box version, 1 • Y • Will defense (Will), 79, 81, 120, 409 young white dragon (level 3 solo brute), 378 winged boots, 258 yuan-ti anathema (level 21 elite winning criteria, 11–12 skirmisher), 389 winter’s wrath, 177 Wisdom (Wis), 152, 155, 190, 194, 207 wizard. See also magic items • Z • ability scores, 158 zombie, 337 arcane spells, 83