Vine Leshy Change Shape ability - what mechanical effects?


Rules Questions

Sovereign Court

The Vine Leshy has a racial Change Shape ability. The only mechanical definition given is that it is similar to Tree Shape (which gives +10 to Natural Armor and an effective Dex of 0). However, the Leshykineticist archetype is specifically called out as being able to move while in this form, so it can’t have a Dex of 0. Any ideas about what mechanical changes should apply when in this form? I can imagine many ways to house rule it but I’m playing PFS so would appreciate any rulings that anyone is aware of.


Change Shape (Su)

A creature with this special quality has the ability to assume the appearance of a specific creature or type of creature (usually a humanoid), but retains most of its own physical qualities. A creature cannot change shape to a form more than one size category smaller or larger than its original form. This ability functions as a polymorph spell, the type of which is listed in the creature’s description, but the creature does not adjust its ability scores (although it gains any other abilities of the creature it mimics). Unless otherwise stated, it can remain in an alternate form indefinitely. Some creatures, such as lycanthropes, can transform into unique forms with special modifiers and abilities. These creatures do adjust their ability scores, as noted in their descriptions.

Format: change shape (wolf, beast shape I); Location: SQ, and in Special Abilities for creatures with a unique listing.

Leshykineticist wrote:

Basic Leshykinesis (Su): A vine leshy leshykineticist can use her basic phytokinesis to move while in her alternate vine form, with a base speed of 10 feet and a climb speed of 10 feet. The vine counts as a prehensile appendage for the purpose of aiming kinetic blasts and gathering power. At the GM’s discretion, this ability might apply to leshykineticists of other leshy varieties as long as their alternate forms aren’t rooted to the ground (and even then, they might be able to use something like a branch to aim kinetic blasts).

This alters basic phytokinesis.

Disclaimer : I have not played a Kineticist or P.F.S. before.

As for my interpretation, you do have a Dexterity Score of 0, it is just that you can draw on your phytokinetic powers in the form of a Supernatural Ability to magically move yourself along and to aim. Both the original Vine Leshy and Kineticist Abilities are (Su), it is just that one adds extra magical Effects; therefore you would only lose the 10ft. Speed in an area of Anti-Magic and what-have-you.

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