paizo.com Recent Posts in Scapular of True Devotionpaizo.com Recent Posts in Scapular of True Devotion2012-11-15T22:19:17Z2012-11-15T22:19:17ZRe: Forums: Open Call: Design a wondrous item: Scapular of True DevotionUlfgar Bjamensen (alias of eldrwyrm)https://paizo.com/threads/rzs2k97f?Scapular-of-True-Devotion#442010-02-19T17:07:28Z2010-02-19T17:07:28Z<p>I like this item, both as a player and GM.
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As a player, particularly a player of clerics, I like items that make healing more effective. Quite frankly, spending 3/4 of my combat healing the party just sucks. Little bonuses that let me do something else are appreciated. Dealing extra damage when channeling to damage is a big plus. My only concern is the price; at 21000 gp, there are a lot of items that could be better than this. In this slot, there are items better than this at about this cost. As a 5th level, that eats up a lot of target "wealth by level" target; and I think this item is most appropriate for mid-level clerics. I think if it were costed closer to 12k it would be better.</p>
<p>As a DM, I like items that add flavor to characters much more than the standard buffing items that people seem to want an abundance of. This gives you the best of both, it is a reasonable buff, but focused enough that characters of the right persuasion can find it cool.</p>I like this item, both as a player and GM.
As a player, particularly a player of clerics, I like items that make healing more effective. Quite frankly, spending 3/4 of my combat healing the party just sucks. Little bonuses that let me do something else are appreciated. Dealing extra damage when channeling to damage is a big plus. My only concern is the price; at 21000 gp, there are a lot of items that could be better than this. In this slot, there are items better than this at about this...Ulfgar Bjamensen (alias of eldrwyrm)2010-02-19T17:07:28ZRe: Forums: Open Call: Design a wondrous item: Scapular of True Devotioncwslyclghhttps://paizo.com/threads/rzs2k97f?Scapular-of-True-Devotion#432010-01-23T20:04:25Z2010-01-23T20:04:25Z<p>I think this idea is pretty solid, I like the way it plays with the channeling rules. I think that when used to damage it should probably add 1 extra point per die instead of just a flat 1... but that is a minor nitpick. Great Job on making the top 32. Good Luck in the future rounds!</p>I think this idea is pretty solid, I like the way it plays with the channeling rules. I think that when used to damage it should probably add 1 extra point per die instead of just a flat 1... but that is a minor nitpick. Great Job on making the top 32. Good Luck in the future rounds!cwslyclgh2010-01-23T20:04:25ZRe: Forums: Open Call: Design a wondrous item: Scapular of True DevotionEric Hindleyhttps://paizo.com/threads/rzs2k97f?Scapular-of-True-Devotion#422010-01-23T19:56:05Z2010-01-23T19:56:05Z<p>This is a pretty cool item that unfortunately looks like it needs to be tweaked to be a little more useful. I almost wish the user could pick the energy type, but that may prove too powerful. Otherwise, the bonus probably needs to go up. But still a very nice benefit for the new channel rules.</p>This is a pretty cool item that unfortunately looks like it needs to be tweaked to be a little more useful. I almost wish the user could pick the energy type, but that may prove too powerful. Otherwise, the bonus probably needs to go up. But still a very nice benefit for the new channel rules.Eric Hindley2010-01-23T19:56:05ZRe: Forums: Open Call: Design a wondrous item: Scapular of True DevotionJoe Wellshttps://paizo.com/threads/rzs2k97f?Scapular-of-True-Devotion#412010-01-23T18:56:39Z2010-01-23T18:56:39Z<p>I like this a lot. I love clerics and magical sacramental items. The flavor is excellent and the mechanical concept is interesting.</p>
<p>I do think it's a bit overcosted. Compare to a <i>phylactery of positive channeling</i> at 11,000 gp, which bumps healing by +2d6 for each channel. I'm not sure a few rounds of a specific energy resistance is worth twice that. Then again, I completely blew the costing of my item, so what do I know?</p>
<p>Congrats and good luck on Round 2!</p>I like this a lot. I love clerics and magical sacramental items. The flavor is excellent and the mechanical concept is interesting.
I do think it's a bit overcosted. Compare to a phylactery of positive channeling at 11,000 gp, which bumps healing by +2d6 for each channel. I'm not sure a few rounds of a specific energy resistance is worth twice that. Then again, I completely blew the costing of my item, so what do I know?
Congrats and good luck on Round 2!Joe Wells2010-01-23T18:56:39ZRe: Forums: Open Call: Design a wondrous item: Scapular of True DevotionSean McGowanhttps://paizo.com/threads/rzs2k97f?Scapular-of-True-Devotion#402010-01-23T07:16:10Z2010-01-23T07:16:10Z<div class="messageboard-quotee">Alexander MacLeod wrote:</div><blockquote><br />
<br />
I was actually thinking, with the addition of the witch class, of offering a <i>Grand Grimoire</i> or <i>Book of Shadows</i> as this year's submission. </blockquote><p>If only the new classes had been available for use. I had an (IMO) absolutely lovely item in mind for summoners. Oh well, maybe next year. And hey, what am I complaining about, we both got in without APH classes, so cool! I'm actually glad to see you among the second-timers that made it; speaking as a spectator the <i>malleus</i> from the first year was really neat, and I absolutely adored your ghost bard.
<p>This one doesn't excite me quite as much, but it is a well designed item that does its one thing very well without going overboard. The idea of playing with channeling is neat, and the mechanics are tight (aside from neglecting to mention the damage upgrades with level as well, but it seemed such a no-brainer that I automatically assumed it was a simple mistake rather than failure to design it with that in mind. Only half a point off for that one.) All in all, good job. And based on your history, very much looking forward to seeing what you have up your sleeve next.</p>Alexander MacLeod wrote:I was actually thinking, with the addition of the witch class, of offering a Grand Grimoire or Book of Shadows as this year's submission.
If only the new classes had been available for use. I had an (IMO) absolutely lovely item in mind for summoners. Oh well, maybe next year. And hey, what am I complaining about, we both got in without APH classes, so cool! I'm actually glad to see you among the second-timers that made it; speaking as a spectator the malleus from the...Sean McGowan2010-01-23T07:16:10ZRe: Forums: Open Call: Design a wondrous item: Scapular of True DevotionTobias Mullenhttps://paizo.com/threads/rzs2k97f?Scapular-of-True-Devotion#392010-01-23T04:19:07Z2010-01-23T04:19:06Z<p>Things I like: Clerics I've played with tend to be very showy about their deities, so the placard changing when a holy symbols is attached is very nice. I am a huge fan of items that scale as you level, so another plus there. And preventing hit point loss through the energy resistance is very nice, because I like to see divine casters use their abilities for things other than healing. Adding a little more damage to a divine caster's abilities is great too.</p>
<p>Things that didn't grab me: I want the user to have control over what type of energy was being used in the channeling. A cleric of an ice god who picked up one of these that was already keyed to do fire damage probably wouldn't be happy. Basing the duration on character stats has already been mentioned, so I won't go into more detail there.</p>
<p>This is still something that I would show to the clerics in my games, though. And it makes me want to play around with more items that boost channeling energy. You've got me thinking and that is what a good item does in my opinion.</p>
<p>Looking forward to seeing your monster.</p>
<p>TM</p>Things I like: Clerics I've played with tend to be very showy about their deities, so the placard changing when a holy symbols is attached is very nice. I am a huge fan of items that scale as you level, so another plus there. And preventing hit point loss through the energy resistance is very nice, because I like to see divine casters use their abilities for things other than healing. Adding a little more damage to a divine caster's abilities is great too.
Things that didn't grab me: I want...Tobias Mullen2010-01-23T04:19:06ZRe: Forums: Open Call: Design a wondrous item: Scapular of True DevotionJason Nelsonhttps://paizo.com/threads/rzs2k97f?Scapular-of-True-Devotion#382010-01-22T18:52:24Z2010-01-22T18:52:24Z<p>Congrats on making it back into the contest this year! I happen to really like the name, but I have a fondness for archaisms and unusual words. I like the effect too - it's neat without being overkill. Costing... interesting question. The effect of the item is kind of variable, from small for a low-level, low-CHA wearer to high for a high-level, high-CHA wearer, so it's kind of hard to peg what it should be.</p>
<p>I also wonder whether a paladin should be able to use this with lay on hands; not entirely unreasonable, but not spelled out (unless I'm misremembering).</p>
<p>This was actually the first item I read, so sorry that it ends up being ironically the LAST item I commented on, but I like it. You've obviously got the skills to do well, so best of luck to you and hope you knock it outta the park. </p>
<p><b>Superstar Class of 2008 4EVAR!!!</b> :)</p>Congrats on making it back into the contest this year! I happen to really like the name, but I have a fondness for archaisms and unusual words. I like the effect too - it's neat without being overkill. Costing... interesting question. The effect of the item is kind of variable, from small for a low-level, low-CHA wearer to high for a high-level, high-CHA wearer, so it's kind of hard to peg what it should be.
I also wonder whether a paladin should be able to use this with lay on hands; not...Jason Nelson2010-01-22T18:52:24ZRe: Forums: Open Call: Design a wondrous item: Scapular of True DevotionPower Word Unzip (alias of Richard Moore, Jon Brazer Enterprises)https://paizo.com/threads/rzs2k97f?Scapular-of-True-Devotion#372010-01-21T17:37:08Z2010-01-21T17:37:07Z<div class="messageboard-quotee">Lamashan Dalastonor wrote:</div><blockquote> <span class=messageboard-bigger><b>Scapular of True Devotion</b></span></blockquote><p>This is an item that will become more and more powerful as the game progresses, and in a way, that's a good hook all on its own. It gives a character reason to adventure and garner more power. I like the mechanics, and it's pretty simple to understand how it's used. This is a great item to give to an NPC villain who can channel negative energy (such as an umbral dragon).
<p>The physical appearance of the item seems kinda goofy to me, though. I'd hate to be wearing a little wooden sign all the time. (But maybe it's because the wooden placard hanging around the neck reminds me of the undead kobold shaman from <i>Crown of the Kobold King</i>. Hee hee.)</p>
<p>Neat concept, though. And it's always nice to see a fellow Raleigh boy get something right - just like NCSU did last night against Duke!</p>Lamashan Dalastonor wrote:Scapular of True Devotion
This is an item that will become more and more powerful as the game progresses, and in a way, that's a good hook all on its own. It gives a character reason to adventure and garner more power. I like the mechanics, and it's pretty simple to understand how it's used. This is a great item to give to an NPC villain who can channel negative energy (such as an umbral dragon). The physical appearance of the item seems kinda goofy to me, though....Power Word Unzip (alias of Richard Moore, Jon Brazer Enterprises)2010-01-21T17:37:07ZRe: Forums: Open Call: Design a wondrous item: Scapular of True DevotionSethttps://paizo.com/threads/rzs2k97f?Scapular-of-True-Devotion#362010-01-21T16:57:18Z2010-01-21T16:57:18Z<p>The energy resistance feature doesn't excite me, but the energy damage added to Channel Energy very much does. I could totally see a holy symbol or scimitar of Sarenrae (or holy symbol or mace of Asmodeus) that added +1 hp / die of Fire damage to any channel energy attempt that inflicts damage to another.</p>
<p>A scapular, or other holy item, that conferred the effects of a Bless spell on anyone healed by your Channel Energy could be neat, borrowing from the Combat Medic (Heroes of Battle) concept of a 'kicker.'</p>
<p>One that used Aid in it's creation, and gave those healed 1 temporary hit point / die of Channeling for 1 minute could be quite useful as well, despite having a relatively small effect. (You Channel heal for 5d6, all of those healed also gain 5 temporary hp for 1 minute.)</p>
<p>.</p>
<p>More importantly, IMO, than just being a neat item in it's own right, this item is a brainstorming tool for potentially dozens of interesting new items, based off of the Channel Energy mechanic.</p>
<p>Well done!</p>The energy resistance feature doesn't excite me, but the energy damage added to Channel Energy very much does. I could totally see a holy symbol or scimitar of Sarenrae (or holy symbol or mace of Asmodeus) that added +1 hp / die of Fire damage to any channel energy attempt that inflicts damage to another.
A scapular, or other holy item, that conferred the effects of a Bless spell on anyone healed by your Channel Energy could be neat, borrowing from the Combat Medic (Heroes of Battle) concept...Set2010-01-21T16:57:18ZRe: Forums: Open Call: Design a wondrous item: Scapular of True DevotionMike Welhamhttps://paizo.com/threads/rzs2k97f?Scapular-of-True-Devotion#352018-09-27T22:34:52Z2010-01-21T03:26:08Z<p>Excellent application of the elemental channeling rules! Clerics don't get enough love in the magic item department, so this is a great addition.</p>
<p>Congratulations and good luck in the next round.</p>Excellent application of the elemental channeling rules! Clerics don't get enough love in the magic item department, so this is a great addition.
Congratulations and good luck in the next round.Mike Welham2010-01-21T03:26:08ZRe: Forums: Open Call: Design a wondrous item: Scapular of True DevotionAlexander H MacLeod IVhttps://paizo.com/threads/rzs2k97f?Scapular-of-True-Devotion#342010-01-20T21:12:27Z2010-01-20T21:12:27Z<div class="messageboard-quotee">NJKrosse wrote:</div><blockquote>I do have a question though. The type of energy, is denoted by the deity, but you also say that the type of energy the scapular protects is chosen during the item's creation. Is the act of attaching a symbol of one's deity part of its creation? </blockquote><p>The type of energy (acid, cold, electricity, fire) is chosen by the creator of the item, and has nothing to do with the deity who's symbol is attached to the <i>scapular</i>. The deity only determines what type of energy (negative or positive) the user channels.
<p>So, a <i>scapular of true devotion (fire)</i> would grant fire resistance if a paladin of Shelyn healed her friends with it, and deal fire damage when a cleric of Zon-Kuthon used the same <i>scapular</i> to blast his enemies with the channeled hate of his god.</p>
<p>And, thanks for your (and everyone's) congratulations and good wishes!</p>NJKrosse wrote:I do have a question though. The type of energy, is denoted by the deity, but you also say that the type of energy the scapular protects is chosen during the item's creation. Is the act of attaching a symbol of one's deity part of its creation?
The type of energy (acid, cold, electricity, fire) is chosen by the creator of the item, and has nothing to do with the deity who's symbol is attached to the scapular. The deity only determines what type of energy (negative or positive)...Alexander H MacLeod IV2010-01-20T21:12:27ZRe: Forums: Open Call: Design a wondrous item: Scapular of True DevotionAlexander H MacLeod IVhttps://paizo.com/threads/rzs2k97f?Scapular-of-True-Devotion#332010-01-20T21:03:25Z2010-01-20T21:03:25Z<div class="messageboard-quotee">Charles Evans 25 wrote:</div><blockquote> Congratulations on making it through to (at least) a top 32 again, and maybe with inquisitors soon to be seeing print we will also see your item from 2008 in print too... :D </blockquote><p>Haha! You remembered the <i><a href="http://paizo.com/paizo/messageboards/paizoPublishing/rpgSuperstar/rpgSuperstar2008/round1/malleusMaleficarum#v5748eaic9kxs" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Malleus Maleficarum</a></i>!
<p>I was actually thinking, with the addition of the witch class, of offering a <i>Grand Grimoire</i> or <i>Book of Shadows</i> as this year's submission.</p>Charles Evans 25 wrote:Congratulations on making it through to (at least) a top 32 again, and maybe with inquisitors soon to be seeing print we will also see your item from 2008 in print too... :D
Haha! You remembered the Malleus Maleficarum! I was actually thinking, with the addition of the witch class, of offering a Grand Grimoire or Book of Shadows as this year's submission.Alexander H MacLeod IV2010-01-20T21:03:25ZRe: Forums: Open Call: Design a wondrous item: Scapular of True DevotionBenjamin Bruckhttps://paizo.com/threads/rzs2k97f?Scapular-of-True-Devotion#322010-01-20T20:41:26Z2010-01-20T20:41:26Z<p>This is a fun, thematic item, that'd I'd probably pick up if I were playing a cleric. I like the idea of being able to pull out some energy resistance along with some healing when the chips are down. The first breath weapon puts fear into the hearts of the PCs, this item gives them courage against the second breath. </p>
<p>Well done!</p>This is a fun, thematic item, that'd I'd probably pick up if I were playing a cleric. I like the idea of being able to pull out some energy resistance along with some healing when the chips are down. The first breath weapon puts fear into the hearts of the PCs, this item gives them courage against the second breath.
Well done!Benjamin Bruck2010-01-20T20:41:26ZRe: Forums: Open Call: Design a wondrous item: Scapular of True DevotionCharles Evans 25https://paizo.com/threads/rzs2k97f?Scapular-of-True-Devotion#312010-01-20T19:54:11Z2010-01-20T19:51:59Z<p>I have some concerns that this is a toy much more useful to those who channel negative energy than to those who channel positive; after all extra damage almost always comes in handy, but energy resistance in a middle of a fight when your enemies may well not be using such attacks???
<br />
The item is neat, and I can see why the judges picked it, but I suspect there would be a bias in-play of evil guys tending to use this more than good guys. </p>
<p>Congratulations on making it through to (at least) a top 32 again, and maybe with inquisitors soon to be seeing print we will also see your item from 2008 in print too... :D</p>I have some concerns that this is a toy much more useful to those who channel negative energy than to those who channel positive; after all extra damage almost always comes in handy, but energy resistance in a middle of a fight when your enemies may well not be using such attacks???
The item is neat, and I can see why the judges picked it, but I suspect there would be a bias in-play of evil guys tending to use this more than good guys.
Congratulations on making it through to (at least) a top...Charles Evans 252010-01-20T19:51:59ZRe: Forums: Open Call: Design a wondrous item: Scapular of True DevotionKevin Ahttps://paizo.com/threads/rzs2k97f?Scapular-of-True-Devotion#302010-01-20T17:33:31Z2010-01-20T17:33:30Z<p>Congrats on being among the 32.
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I think you did a better job than I.
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I do have a question though. The type of energy, is denoted by the deity, but you also say that the type of energy the scapular protects is chosen during the item's creation. Is the act of attaching a symbol of one's deity part of its creation? In which case whichever deity gets to this item first wins. Or is the energy chosen when a new symbol is attached? </p>
<p>Other than this, I do like the item, and I can't wait to see what kind of phantastical monster arises from your imagination.</p>Congrats on being among the 32.
I think you did a better job than I.
I do have a question though. The type of energy, is denoted by the deity, but you also say that the type of energy the scapular protects is chosen during the item's creation. Is the act of attaching a symbol of one's deity part of its creation? In which case whichever deity gets to this item first wins. Or is the energy chosen when a new symbol is attached?
Other than this, I do like the item, and I can't wait to see what...Kevin A2010-01-20T17:33:30ZRe: Forums: Open Call: Design a wondrous item: Scapular of True Devotionroguerougehttps://paizo.com/threads/rzs2k97f?Scapular-of-True-Devotion#292010-01-20T16:54:37Z2010-01-20T16:47:42Z<p>Congratulations on advancing! If the last two years are any indication, you're in for a wild ride. This is very competitive and my suggestions here are based on what I'd be looking for in later rounds with audience voting. </p>
<p>First, you need to keep in mind how things work at the table. Minor bonuses lasting a brief period of time are a pain in the prat. I'm picturing: "Let's see... I get 4 points off for the past three rounds. What's your charisma bonus, Bob? 15? You bastard! Yep. The dragon's breath weapon killed me. If you'd just put more points into it, I'd still be... Wait! Bob channeled energy last round! It's back up. I'm alive." This is not the stuff of drama. This is the stuff of book-keeping.</p>
<p>Second, why would I spend 21K on this item when I can spend it elsewhere and get better bang for my buck? Coupled with the hassle of keeping track of the thing, this scapular is getting sold at the first opportunity. Not to mention that this takes up a precious magic item slot. By the time you can afford 21K items, those slots better be mechanically valuable. And Energy Resist 5 for a 3-6 rounds just isn't worth it when you could be boosting your AC +3. </p>
<p>Finally, as a named bonus, wouldn't it be overwhelmed by the resist 20 for 90 minutes offered by the second level spell, resist energy, as cast by a cleric of a level with sufficient wealth for your item? I'm not a pathfinder expert at this point, but that was the first thing that came to mind. </p>
<p>Flavor will curry favor with some voters, but you need to be able to nab the votes of people who vote based on mechanics and table convenience. </p>
<p>Again, congratulations!</p>Congratulations on advancing! If the last two years are any indication, you're in for a wild ride. This is very competitive and my suggestions here are based on what I'd be looking for in later rounds with audience voting.
First, you need to keep in mind how things work at the table. Minor bonuses lasting a brief period of time are a pain in the prat. I'm picturing: "Let's see... I get 4 points off for the past three rounds. What's your charisma bonus, Bob? 15? You bastard! Yep. The dragon's...roguerouge2010-01-20T16:47:42ZRe: Forums: Open Call: Design a wondrous item: Scapular of True DevotionRecklesshttps://paizo.com/threads/rzs2k97f?Scapular-of-True-Devotion#282010-01-20T16:02:46Z2010-01-20T16:02:46Z<div class="messageboard-quotee">JoelF847 wrote:</div><blockquote> <div class="messageboard-quotee">Reckless wrote:</div><blockquote><p> I love the beginning flavor text, and the touch of the adding of relevant symbols is a cool effect. </p>
<p>Mechanically, however, this item is terrible. This item is completely overcosted. A minor ring of energy resistance only costs 12000gp and functions continuously at 10 points of resistance (which is equivelent to a 19th level cleric with this item), and the benefit for negative channelers is basically non-existant (1 point of damage ooo ahhh, that's worth 21000gp. Even if it was written correctly 1 point of extra damage per die is still pretty weak at this cost.) As already pointed out, duration based on the wearer's stat is a flaw as well.</p>
<p>The name is weak, and unrelated to the item's function. </p>
<p></blockquote>This item is more like a resist energy, mass however, so it should provide a lower amount of resistance than a single person item (or be way more expensive than the single person item) </blockquote><p>You know, I saw that in my first reading yesterday, and somehow completely missed it today as I'm trying to critique these items. Thanks for the reminder. That makes this item somewhat better (but still overcosted in my opinion.)JoelF847 wrote:Reckless wrote:I love the beginning flavor text, and the touch of the adding of relevant symbols is a cool effect.
Mechanically, however, this item is terrible. This item is completely overcosted. A minor ring of energy resistance only costs 12000gp and functions continuously at 10 points of resistance (which is equivelent to a 19th level cleric with this item), and the benefit for negative channelers is basically non-existant (1 point of damage ooo ahhh, that's worth 21000gp....Reckless2010-01-20T16:02:46ZRe: Forums: Open Call: Design a wondrous item: Scapular of True DevotionJoel Flankhttps://paizo.com/threads/rzs2k97f?Scapular-of-True-Devotion#272010-01-20T15:50:11Z2010-01-20T15:50:11Z<div class="messageboard-quotee">Reckless wrote:</div><blockquote><p> I love the beginning flavor text, and the touch of the adding of relevant symbols is a cool effect. </p>
<p>Mechanically, however, this item is terrible. This item is completely overcosted. A minor ring of energy resistance only costs 12000gp and functions continuously at 10 points of resistance (which is equivelent to a 19th level cleric with this item), and the benefit for negative channelers is basically non-existant (1 point of damage ooo ahhh, that's worth 21000gp. Even if it was written correctly 1 point of extra damage per die is still pretty weak at this cost.) As already pointed out, duration based on the wearer's stat is a flaw as well.</p>
<p>The name is weak, and unrelated to the item's function. </p>
<p></blockquote><p>This item is more like a resist energy, mass however, so it should provide a lower amount of resistance than a single person item (or be way more expensive than the single person item)Reckless wrote:I love the beginning flavor text, and the touch of the adding of relevant symbols is a cool effect.
Mechanically, however, this item is terrible. This item is completely overcosted. A minor ring of energy resistance only costs 12000gp and functions continuously at 10 points of resistance (which is equivelent to a 19th level cleric with this item), and the benefit for negative channelers is basically non-existant (1 point of damage ooo ahhh, that's worth 21000gp. Even if it was...Joel Flank2010-01-20T15:50:11ZRe: Forums: Open Call: Design a wondrous item: Scapular of True DevotionJames Martinhttps://paizo.com/threads/rzs2k97f?Scapular-of-True-Devotion#262010-01-20T15:43:54Z2010-01-20T15:43:54Z<p>I like this as a customizable cool cleric item. I could easily see ways in which I could expand it, which makes me happy, since I like items that PCs can add to down the road. Mayeb attach a relic? Hmm...</p>
<p>Oh and congrats!</p>I like this as a customizable cool cleric item. I could easily see ways in which I could expand it, which makes me happy, since I like items that PCs can add to down the road. Mayeb attach a relic? Hmm...
Oh and congrats!James Martin2010-01-20T15:43:54ZRe: Forums: Open Call: Design a wondrous item: Scapular of True DevotionRecklesshttps://paizo.com/threads/rzs2k97f?Scapular-of-True-Devotion#252010-01-20T15:02:06Z2010-01-20T15:02:06Z<p>I love the beginning flavor text, and the touch of the adding of relevant symbols is a cool effect. </p>
<p>Mechanically, however, this item is terrible. This item is completely overcosted. A minor ring of energy resistance only costs 12000gp and functions continuously at 10 points of resistance (which is equivelent to a 19th level cleric with this item), and the benefit for negative channelers is basically non-existant (1 point of damage ooo ahhh, that's worth 21000gp. Even if it was written correctly 1 point of extra damage per die is still pretty weak at this cost.) As already pointed out, duration based on the wearer's stat is a flaw as well.</p>
<p>The name is weak, and unrelated to the item's function.</p>I love the beginning flavor text, and the touch of the adding of relevant symbols is a cool effect.
Mechanically, however, this item is terrible. This item is completely overcosted. A minor ring of energy resistance only costs 12000gp and functions continuously at 10 points of resistance (which is equivelent to a 19th level cleric with this item), and the benefit for negative channelers is basically non-existant (1 point of damage ooo ahhh, that's worth 21000gp. Even if it was written...Reckless2010-01-20T15:02:06ZRe: Forums: Open Call: Design a wondrous item: Scapular of True DevotionDan Joneshttps://paizo.com/threads/rzs2k97f?Scapular-of-True-Devotion#242010-01-20T07:53:24Z2010-01-20T07:53:24Z<p>This looks like a good beginning, but is a little weak. It's good that it's scalable, but it might be better if it provided 2 or 3 or even 5 points of energy resistance per die of channeling. At 20th level, fire resistance 10 is not very useful (it's actually only HALF the minimum result of the damage dice of a spell for that level), but fire resistance 20 or 30 or 50 is. You'll be fighting things throwing around meteor swarms, great wyrm breath weapons, and balor nimbuses by then. </p>
<p>Maybe tie the duration to the number of channel dice the cleric gets? Or just a flat 3 rounds or 5 rounds? Probably at least 5 rounds, since breath weapons re-charge in 1d4 rounds, so you're guaranteed at least one or two chances to take advantage of the item.</p>This looks like a good beginning, but is a little weak. It's good that it's scalable, but it might be better if it provided 2 or 3 or even 5 points of energy resistance per die of channeling. At 20th level, fire resistance 10 is not very useful (it's actually only HALF the minimum result of the damage dice of a spell for that level), but fire resistance 20 or 30 or 50 is. You'll be fighting things throwing around meteor swarms, great wyrm breath weapons, and balor nimbuses by then.
Maybe tie...Dan Jones2010-01-20T07:53:24ZRe: Forums: Open Call: Design a wondrous item: Scapular of True DevotionCarl Flahertyhttps://paizo.com/threads/rzs2k97f?Scapular-of-True-Devotion#232010-01-20T03:03:33Z2010-01-20T03:03:33Z<p>Congratulations from making it out of the herd! <b>:)</b></p>
<p>This is a clever idea, but I do feel that this item would be much more valuable with just a little more "umph"</p>Congratulations from making it out of the herd! :)
This is a clever idea, but I do feel that this item would be much more valuable with just a little more "umph"Carl Flaherty2010-01-20T03:03:33ZRe: Forums: Open Call: Design a wondrous item: Scapular of True DevotionAndrew Blackhttps://paizo.com/threads/rzs2k97f?Scapular-of-True-Devotion#222010-01-20T02:01:03Z2010-01-20T02:00:59Z<p>I like that you took on the channeling power and created a cool item that works with it. Good luck this year!</p>I like that you took on the channeling power and created a cool item that works with it. Good luck this year!Andrew Black2010-01-20T02:00:59ZRe: Forums: Open Call: Design a wondrous item: Scapular of True DevotionJoel Flankhttps://paizo.com/threads/rzs2k97f?Scapular-of-True-Devotion#212010-01-20T01:12:17Z2010-01-20T01:12:17Z<p>Great job making the cut twice now! I liked how your item ties to the channel energy mechanics, and increases in power based on your channel strength, but agree that the bonus should be for a static duration - it doesn't need to be tied to two different variables. As for the name, I don't mind Scapular at all - I like learning new words, and think it's cool to say "my character has a magic scapular instead of a magic necklace like everyone else", however, I thought True Devotion was a bit generic and didn't really relate to what the item does. I was expecting something more closely tied to alignment or along the lines of the phylactery of faithfulness. </p>
<p>Finally, from a pure player viewpoint, it seems a bit expensive for what it does. I'm curious to see the math/thought process you used on pricing.</p>Great job making the cut twice now! I liked how your item ties to the channel energy mechanics, and increases in power based on your channel strength, but agree that the bonus should be for a static duration - it doesn't need to be tied to two different variables. As for the name, I don't mind Scapular at all - I like learning new words, and think it's cool to say "my character has a magic scapular instead of a magic necklace like everyone else", however, I thought True Devotion was a bit...Joel Flank2010-01-20T01:12:17ZRe: Forums: Open Call: Design a wondrous item: Scapular of True DevotionMatthew Stinsonhttps://paizo.com/threads/rzs2k97f?Scapular-of-True-Devotion#202013-03-04T20:45:29Z2010-01-20T00:23:50Z<p>With the channel energy system for clerics being so new, I had a feeling there
<br />
would be a couple of items like this. This is the first one I've seen in the
<br />
contest and it's a good solid idea. With all the old feats, items, and abilities that took up a certain number of your per day turn undead uses now void, there is a lot of
<br />
room to reuse and expand upon those ideas. I'm surprised you didn't make a link
<br />
between the deity's domains and the energy type of the <i>scapular of true
<br />
devotion</i>, as deities with the earth domain using acid and fire domain using
<br />
fire. After all, it would be unusual for a cleric of Sarenrae's to channel energies that do cold damage, but then again it works
<br />
fine the way you have it. I like the use of the word 'scapular' instead of
<br />
making this a <i>necklace of true devotion</i>. Using item names from real world
<br />
religions and militaries adds more depth to the item and in turn makes the
<br />
fantasy world seem more realistic. I like what I see and am looking forward to
<br />
what you do next. Welcome to RPG Superstar 2010!</p>With the channel energy system for clerics being so new, I had a feeling there
would be a couple of items like this. This is the first one I've seen in the
contest and it's a good solid idea. With all the old feats, items, and abilities that took up a certain number of your per day turn undead uses now void, there is a lot of
room to reuse and expand upon those ideas. I'm surprised you didn't make a link
between the deity's domains and the energy type of the scapular of true
devotion, as...Matthew Stinson2010-01-20T00:23:50Z