Maybe we should have size limits here. what you all think? We have basically two different types of shields, the punch shield and the strap shield. Now I know I can boast about being the man with the largest shield in game so this may sound a bit wierd coming from me, but it seems that it promotes man hugging and reach arounds more then it actually protects. Perhaps a reasonable size limit should be placed on both, with strap shields being bigger and punch smaller. What you all say?
For the first time in recorded history, I have no strong opinions about a game ruling. I could go either way. I don't think there's anything particularly unsafe about large shields, and they have obvious disadvantages against spell users unless you're a warrior. Feel free to debate amongst yourselves. It'll be a novel experience for me to listen without favoring a side. :P
I only stated this because I have seen the man dance first hand, since its usually the only way a person gets around my shield in a one on one conflict. Also Thad if you remember you got your hand cut on my guantlet, which was behind a massive shield at the time. I was also thinking about that incident as well. I was merely stating what I have seen on the battlefield. If you have a big shield, they will man dance you.
Another possibility to consider here is multiple shield skills. I think we've established that the safety concerns with a shield are better addressed through instruction than through restriction of shield size. Maybe we could have a lower-level shield skill that allows people to use shields up to a certain size and a higher-level skill that lets them use any size. Sort of like the ability to use a tower shield in D&D 3.5. Any thoughts?
It seems the fireside chat wholeheartedly agrees with multiple shield skills and limiting the heaviest shield and armor use to fighters only. That should make them much more appealing and give them a shot in the arm to even things out with casters (THS 7). They even suggested having three levels of shield use, with the lowest level letting you use a buckler, but I'm not sure if I want to take it quite that far (THS 1).
While I get what you are saying about the wrap arounds and non safe combat vs. a shield wearer, I don't think that it is a shield users fault. I believe a bit more clarification to the newb mods and for us shield users to be more mindful to tell people not to wrap may be in order instead. Man hugging is going to happen regardless I think, as the new system seems to be making peoiple think more about tactics. rather than crash headlong into a shield wall, players will have to flank them and attack in a concerted effort. Now mind you that this ruling will also apply to monsters, so maybe the PC's can utilize these tactics as well as benefit from them. The size isnt the safety issue, its all of us players I think, but if I am alone here I will def not argue with the masses.