The Warforged are described as "fully sentient soldiers, blending organic and inorganic materials. Warforged are made from wood and metal, but they can feel pain and emotion."
I guess it's always down to the setting and the GM, but in general, can Warforged change their physical appearance? If so, how? If not, why not? I'm thinking mostly from a storytelling perspective but also a mechanical one (pun intended). The organic parts at least should be able to change, wouldn't they? If my Warforged Fighter puts a few ASIs in Strength, will they becoem more bulky and buff? Will the flickering, insecure lights of the eyes of an insecure, low-charisma warforge shine with a more confident glow if they pump the Charisma?
I love the Idea of warforged adapting and growing. Why wouldn't they? When they incorporate armor into their body they will have some changes. So why not make hem bulkyer when they get stronger. I'd even go as far as allowing them to make aestetic choices on a whim independent of their Stats.
As far as I'm aware there's nothing written that says they do or do not, ergo I'd ask your DM. I don't think they'd object to your character growing ("creaking, straining as wood and iron heave with arcane magicks"), especially if you say they won't exceed their starting size category of Medium (unless, of course, your DM likes the idea of them growing into a Large+ mech. Roll persuasion...)
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Zero is the most important number in D&D: Session Zero sets the boundaries and the tone; Rule Zero dictates the Dungeon Master (DM) is the final arbiter; and Zero D&D is better than Bad D&D.
"Let us speak plainly now, and in earnest, for words mean little without the weight of conviction."
As far as I'm aware there's nothing written that says they do or do not, ergo I'd ask your DM. I don't think they'd object to your character growing ("creaking, straining as wood and iron heave with arcane magicks"), especially if you say they won't exceed their starting size category of Medium (unless, of course, your DM likes the idea of them growing into a Large+ mech. Roll persuasion...)
A Warforged Rune Knight with the 'enlarged' spell cast on them. :D
Jokes aside, I was just thinking that it would be an interesting idea to play around with. Just as you would expect the level 10 human who has increased their Strength and Con to look a bit bulkier and tougher than their level 1 counterpart, I was wondering what this would look like for a warforged. Especially since Warforged could literally be upgraded. :D
I mean, we're basically talking cosmetics describing (game) mechanical changes. So describing physical changes to go alongside ASIs or new feats. leveling or a even new tool proficiency is sort of a game world call. It makes sense and it adds some fun story telling aspect as to how game mechanical changes affect the Warforged's construction (I've heard many games war forged talking about ASIs and the like being the Warforged's experience discovering or "unlocking" new features much like Apples or Telsas today.
But I want to say game mechanically there was at least on the drawing board at one time an idea that Warforged could/would "transform" over time and there are UAs out there, if not something in prior editions where Warforged players actually had options to develop capacities through "upgrades" that would unlock what would be handled as new racial traits. I've never seen them myself, I think they were in a UA format for 5e, and I remember reading some players grousing over the Warforged being reeled into regular humanoid type game mechanics when officially brought into 5e.
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Jander Sunstar is the thinking person's Drizzt, fight me.
It wouldn't be growing so much as bulking up or slimming down, but regardless it depends on how their physiology works. They don't have muscle fibers the way most other humanoids do. Whether they need more of whatever it is that replaces muscle (yes, yes, "root-like cords infused with alchemical fluids" - that's hardly specific) on a Warforged in order to generate more force is anybody's guess, same as an explanation for how a Warforged could be a sorcerer with a bloodline or have an Infernal Constitution. We know it works, the how is up to the player and/or DM to determine.
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Want to start playing but don't have anyone to play with? You can try these options: [link].
It wouldn't be growing so much as bulking up or slimming down, but regardless it depends on how their physiology works. They don't have muscle fibers the way most other humanoids do. Whether they need more of whatever it is that replaces muscle (yes, yes, "root-like cords infused with alchemical fluids" - that's hardly specific) on a Warforged in order to generate more force is anybody's guess, same as an explanation for how a Warforged could be a sorcerer with a bloodline or have an Infernal Constitution. We know it works, the how is up to the player and/or DM to determine.
Got any ideas? Not neccesarily just for PCs and stat increases but how would a, say a desert dwelling warforged be different from one living in the arctic? A seafaring 'forged would probably be saltstained and a bit bleached from the sun but would that "heal" if they spent a few months ashore in a quiet place in the shade?
If my Warforged Fighter puts a few ASIs in Strength, will they becoem more bulky and buff? Will the flickering, insecure lights of the eyes of an insecure, low-charisma warforge shine with a more confident glow if they pump the Charisma?
I mean, you can flavor it however you want. Maybe it's not the organic bits that change along with the stats -- they could upgrade the non-organic materials used instead to account for either of those increases ("My joints are now reinforced with mithril, and I added these snazzy racing stripes and gold trim around my facial features so people will be more impressed when I talk!")
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Active characters:
Carric Aquissar, elven wannabe artist in his deconstructionist period (Archfey warlock) Lan Kidogo, mapach archaeologist and treasure hunter (Knowledge cleric) Mardan Ferres, elven private investigator obsessed with that one unsolved murder (Assassin rogue) Xhekhetiel, halfling survivor of a Betrayer Gods cult (Runechild sorcerer/fighter)
I looked it up myself, it wasn't upgrades in the original race design, rather there were three sub races that would result in radically different structures depending which option you took. Integrated tools is cool too, and definitely a mechanical reflection of the sort of upgrade growth being suggested.
Generally, they do not. They are built, and their souls are created fully formed by Creation Kilns. I'm not sure if House Cannith even knows how they work; it's possible that only Aaren d'Cannith ever fully understood his creations, and he disappeared long ago, probably suicide.
Now, they can grow intellectually and emotionally. And they can be modified or unlock features they've always had.
It wouldn't be growing so much as bulking up or slimming down, but regardless it depends on how their physiology works. They don't have muscle fibers the way most other humanoids do. Whether they need more of whatever it is that replaces muscle (yes, yes, "root-like cords infused with alchemical fluids" - that's hardly specific) on a Warforged in order to generate more force is anybody's guess, same as an explanation for how a Warforged could be a sorcerer with a bloodline or have an Infernal Constitution. We know it works, the how is up to the player and/or DM to determine.
Got any ideas? Not neccesarily just for PCs and stat increases but how would a, say a desert dwelling warforged be different from one living in the arctic? A seafaring 'forged would probably be saltstained and a bit bleached from the sun but would that "heal" if they spent a few months ashore in a quiet place in the shade?
Camo comes to mind, or at least a personal colour scheme. The non-organic parts that show outwardly can be painted, gilded or adorned with all manner of things. Warforged are not immune to the elements either, so certain modifications could have been made to adjust to the specific detriments of their environment - a visor to shield the eyes from the harsh sun and pale materials to stave off the worst of the sun in the desert, integrated fur or other thermally insulating materials in the arctic, a coating of oil at sea to avoid damage from prolongued exposure to salt or maybe even prevent rusting.
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Want to start playing but don't have anyone to play with? You can try these options: [link].
If this is a desired effect for the player then side quests for things to help it "grow" should be explored. Keep in mind that these mods should be in line with other PC "growth" . The attunenment aspect and integration aspect could be explored as well. Acquiring "special material" will help this process work well.
I seem to remember reading somewhere that they do change gradually (as you gain levels) and that they might one day seek out an artificer to help make specific changes as their individuality progressed thru roleplaying. I recall in the age listing in Eberron that no one knows how long they live because the sentient race only began 30 years ago and there are no visible signs of aging. It would theoretically be possible for a ‘forged to continue to incorporate inorganic material into itself as the organic material grew with age allowing that either it would grow more complex with time (think coat of many colors) or it would actually increase in size categories (as long as it was properly maintained). I am somewhat inspired to feature the first conjugal birth of an infant ‘forged in my next adventure, let’s make the race legit and give them the ability to reproduce and develop separate of their manufactured origins.
“The newly evolved race, to ensure it’s survival, then systematically eradicated it’s less evolved cousins- the homo-sapiens.”
I seem to remember reading somewhere that they do change gradually (as you gain levels) and that they might one day seek out an artificer to help make specific changes as their individuality progressed thru roleplaying. I recall in the age listing in Eberron that no one knows how long they live because the sentient race only began 30 years ago and there are no visible signs of aging. It would theoretically be possible for a ‘forged to continue to incorporate inorganic material into itself as the organic material grew with age allowing that either it would grow more complex with time (think coat of many colors) or it would actually increase in size categories (as long as it was properly maintained). I am somewhat inspired to feature the first conjugal birth of an infant ‘forged in my next adventure, let’s make the race legit and give them the ability to reproduce and develop separate of their manufactured origins.
Hmm, interesting. It would be a interesting avenue to explore how warforged would reproduce. Personally I think that a mammalian borth would be out of the question but perhaps two or more warforged can join together in some way, giving up pieces of their own bodies (that later would regenerate, of course) to create a new one? On the other hand, why wouldn't they be able to reproduce alone?
“The newly evolved race, to ensure it’s survival, then systematically eradicated it’s less evolved cousins- the homo-sapiens.”
Well, obviously. :)
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The Warforged are described as "fully sentient soldiers, blending organic and inorganic materials. Warforged are made from wood and metal, but they can feel pain and emotion."
I guess it's always down to the setting and the GM, but in general, can Warforged change their physical appearance? If so, how? If not, why not? I'm thinking mostly from a storytelling perspective but also a mechanical one (pun intended). The organic parts at least should be able to change, wouldn't they? If my Warforged Fighter puts a few ASIs in Strength, will they becoem more bulky and buff? Will the flickering, insecure lights of the eyes of an insecure, low-charisma warforge shine with a more confident glow if they pump the Charisma?
What's your thoughts on this?
I love the Idea of warforged adapting and growing. Why wouldn't they? When they incorporate armor into their body they will have some changes. So why not make hem bulkyer when they get stronger. I'd even go as far as allowing them to make aestetic choices on a whim independent of their Stats.
All that said: DM and Setting.
As far as I'm aware there's nothing written that says they do or do not, ergo I'd ask your DM. I don't think they'd object to your character growing ("creaking, straining as wood and iron heave with arcane magicks"), especially if you say they won't exceed their starting size category of Medium (unless, of course, your DM likes the idea of them growing into a Large+ mech. Roll persuasion...)
Zero is the most important number in D&D: Session Zero sets the boundaries and the tone; Rule Zero dictates the Dungeon Master (DM) is the final arbiter; and Zero D&D is better than Bad D&D.
"Let us speak plainly now, and in earnest, for words mean little without the weight of conviction."
- The Assemblage of Houses, World of Warcraft
A Warforged Rune Knight with the 'enlarged' spell cast on them. :D
Jokes aside, I was just thinking that it would be an interesting idea to play around with. Just as you would expect the level 10 human who has increased their Strength and Con to look a bit bulkier and tougher than their level 1 counterpart, I was wondering what this would look like for a warforged. Especially since Warforged could literally be upgraded. :D
I mean, we're basically talking cosmetics describing (game) mechanical changes. So describing physical changes to go alongside ASIs or new feats. leveling or a even new tool proficiency is sort of a game world call. It makes sense and it adds some fun story telling aspect as to how game mechanical changes affect the Warforged's construction (I've heard many games war forged talking about ASIs and the like being the Warforged's experience discovering or "unlocking" new features much like Apples or Telsas today.
But I want to say game mechanically there was at least on the drawing board at one time an idea that Warforged could/would "transform" over time and there are UAs out there, if not something in prior editions where Warforged players actually had options to develop capacities through "upgrades" that would unlock what would be handled as new racial traits. I've never seen them myself, I think they were in a UA format for 5e, and I remember reading some players grousing over the Warforged being reeled into regular humanoid type game mechanics when officially brought into 5e.
Jander Sunstar is the thinking person's Drizzt, fight me.
It wouldn't be growing so much as bulking up or slimming down, but regardless it depends on how their physiology works. They don't have muscle fibers the way most other humanoids do. Whether they need more of whatever it is that replaces muscle (yes, yes, "root-like cords infused with alchemical fluids" - that's hardly specific) on a Warforged in order to generate more force is anybody's guess, same as an explanation for how a Warforged could be a sorcerer with a bloodline or have an Infernal Constitution. We know it works, the how is up to the player and/or DM to determine.
Want to start playing but don't have anyone to play with? You can try these options: [link].
Got any ideas? Not neccesarily just for PCs and stat increases but how would a, say a desert dwelling warforged be different from one living in the arctic? A seafaring 'forged would probably be saltstained and a bit bleached from the sun but would that "heal" if they spent a few months ashore in a quiet place in the shade?
I mean, you can flavor it however you want. Maybe it's not the organic bits that change along with the stats -- they could upgrade the non-organic materials used instead to account for either of those increases ("My joints are now reinforced with mithril, and I added these snazzy racing stripes and gold trim around my facial features so people will be more impressed when I talk!")
Active characters:
Carric Aquissar, elven wannabe artist in his deconstructionist period (Archfey warlock)
Lan Kidogo, mapach archaeologist and treasure hunter (Knowledge cleric)
Mardan Ferres, elven private investigator obsessed with that one unsolved murder (Assassin rogue)
Xhekhetiel, halfling survivor of a Betrayer Gods cult (Runechild sorcerer/fighter)
I looked it up myself, it wasn't upgrades in the original race design, rather there were three sub races that would result in radically different structures depending which option you took. Integrated tools is cool too, and definitely a mechanical reflection of the sort of upgrade growth being suggested.
Jander Sunstar is the thinking person's Drizzt, fight me.
Generally, they do not. They are built, and their souls are created fully formed by Creation Kilns. I'm not sure if House Cannith even knows how they work; it's possible that only Aaren d'Cannith ever fully understood his creations, and he disappeared long ago, probably suicide.
Now, they can grow intellectually and emotionally. And they can be modified or unlock features they've always had.
Camo comes to mind, or at least a personal colour scheme. The non-organic parts that show outwardly can be painted, gilded or adorned with all manner of things. Warforged are not immune to the elements either, so certain modifications could have been made to adjust to the specific detriments of their environment - a visor to shield the eyes from the harsh sun and pale materials to stave off the worst of the sun in the desert, integrated fur or other thermally insulating materials in the arctic, a coating of oil at sea to avoid damage from prolongued exposure to salt or maybe even prevent rusting.
Want to start playing but don't have anyone to play with? You can try these options: [link].
If this is a desired effect for the player then side quests for things to help it "grow" should be explored. Keep in mind that these mods should be in line with other PC "growth" . The attunenment aspect and integration aspect could be explored as well. Acquiring "special material" will help this process work well.
I seem to remember reading somewhere that they do change gradually (as you gain levels) and that they might one day seek out an artificer to help make specific changes as their individuality progressed thru roleplaying. I recall in the age listing in Eberron that no one knows how long they live because the sentient race only began 30 years ago and there are no visible signs of aging. It would theoretically be possible for a ‘forged to continue to incorporate inorganic material into itself as the organic material grew with age allowing that either it would grow more complex with time (think coat of many colors) or it would actually increase in size categories (as long as it was properly maintained). I am somewhat inspired to feature the first conjugal birth of an infant ‘forged in my next adventure, let’s make the race legit and give them the ability to reproduce and develop separate of their manufactured origins.
“The newly evolved race, to ensure it’s survival, then systematically eradicated it’s less evolved cousins- the homo-sapiens.”
Hmm, interesting. It would be a interesting avenue to explore how warforged would reproduce. Personally I think that a mammalian borth would be out of the question but perhaps two or more warforged can join together in some way, giving up pieces of their own bodies (that later would regenerate, of course) to create a new one? On the other hand, why wouldn't they be able to reproduce alone?
Well, obviously. :)