|
I need some input regarding the correct use of the Wizard (Universalist) Special Ability. Does the Wizard have to be proficient with the weapon in his hand to use this ability in a combat encounter? It seems that if not, that this ability could quickly become broken in certain situations.
Example: Harry Potter, the party's Wizard 1, is carrying around in his hands an Earthbreaker (a weapon he is not proficient with). The party enters combat, and although he isn't proficient with said weapon, using the "Hand of the Apprentice" ability, the weapon leaps from his hands to strike a target within 30 feet for 2d6 bashing and piercing damage, returning to his hand after striking out.
Thoughts?
Tarrintino
Firstly, when one can cast a single spell and incapacitate multiple opponents, 2d6 damage doesn't seem particularly ... useful, much less broken.
It doesn't say you have to be proficient, so you don't, but since it also says that it is a ranged attack, you suffer the -4 non-proficiency penalty, and since you're using your crappy BAB, and suffer penalties like attacking into melee or cover or such ... yeah, no big deal.
I don't think you have to be proficient. While it does say it is a ranged attack, it seems that penalty for throwing a melee weapon does NOT apply. If I throw my long sword, I take a -4 penalty and have a range increment of 30' etc. Hand of the Mage seems to allow the attack the full 30' (no range increment) and I think if you were intended to take the penalty for throwing a weapon not designed for it that would be spelled out.
I certainly agree that standard ranged combat penalties (cover, melee etc) would apply, and also that even the most generous interpretation doesn't make this 'broken' or even very good after a level or two.
You aren't taking the penalty for throwing a weapon not designed to be throwing. You're taking the penalty for not being proficient with the weapon in the first place.