We noted tonight at the game, that the Alter Self spell notes if you take a medium size shape you get +2 STR. Which is pretty silly if you are already a medium size creature. Thoughts? comments? correction to rules?
There is a similar issue with small size gaining DEX.
Should this not apply ONLY if changing size?
It's magic. The spell probably turns you into a creature with more muscle mass than before, even if it's the same type. Besides, its a 2nd level spell giving a very minor bonus. It really shines with the abilities it grants.
it's totally fine at least no one feels compelled to spend all their time as a troglodyte any more for the +6 nat armor bonus :P
Yes it is pretty silly. Especially if you turn into something smaller, like an elf.
Just thing of it as rearranging he muscles a bit to add a few more. As long as you're making alterations you may as well make improvements
I think the spell works fine, it doesnt stack with other size/shape altering magic,I would rule it is also fine not to take the bonus ;)
It is not silly. Another poster said something like this, which I found really amusing:
"You do not use Alter Self to turn into Napoleon Dynamite, you use Alter Self to turn into Chuck Norris!"
The point being, you do not accept "average" you use your magic to get the best you possibly can. And in this case, that manifests as a +2 STR cookie.
I don't think it would be too silly to have alter self houseruled to add +2 to the most appropriate physical stat, or your choice if you become a human, half-elf or half-orc.
I don't think it would be too silly to have alter self houseruled to add +2 to the most appropriate physical stat, or your choice if you become a human, half-elf or half-orc.
Physical stat, no [polymorph] spell increases your mental scores.
That's what I said.
That's what I said.
+1, that is what she said ;)
That's what I said.+1, that is what she said ;)
Sorry, I missed the physical part.
Personally I do not mind how alter self works, obviously you should have a shape that looks the part if you go for a strength increase or at least not change into a scrawny elf that looks like it can be snapped like a twig, but otherwise I am fine with how it works.
If you made it an inherent bonus, it wouldn't stack with 1. wishes, and 2. abyssal/orc bloodline strength bonuses.
The one thing I don't get is why a size bonus? Actually this question applies to all the shape changing spells. Shouldn't it be an inherent bonus? You take the shape of a new creature and take the strength/constitution/dexterity inherent in the new form.
The size bonus is just a name, it does not have a whole lot to do with size, I guess shape bonus would be better but flows less smoothly off the tongue... either way it is just a mechanic telling you what will stack and what won't.