Seeing that using two-weapon fighting style is counted as a bonus action on the secondary weapon - has it ever been discussed that using a shield should be counted as a bonus action or reaction. Maybe not to the extent that a shield can only be used against one attack each turn, but providing the full AC bonus that it does today but forfeiting any other bonus or reaction. Come to think about it, reaction seems the most likely candidate.
Any takers? Stupid? Does it ruin another mechanic? Is anyone running with this kind of rule?
I think it already removes the possibility of two-weapon fighting AND two-handed attacks taking away the potential of more chances to hit or larger damage dice. I don't feel it needs any further mechanical balancing for a +2 to AC. Thematically/narratively, there are many examples in history and media of warriors with a shield being very nimble and reactive in battle so I couldn't really justify it there either. I don't think a character who is proficient in using shields should need to use any of their action economy to keep it between themselves and an enemy.
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Seeing that using two-weapon fighting style is counted as a bonus action on the secondary weapon - has it ever been discussed that using a shield should be counted as a bonus action or reaction. Maybe not to the extent that a shield can only be used against one attack each turn, but providing the full AC bonus that it does today but forfeiting any other bonus or reaction. Come to think about it, reaction seems the most likely candidate.
Any takers? Stupid? Does it ruin another mechanic? Is anyone running with this kind of rule?
Cheers!
Bjorn
I think it already removes the possibility of two-weapon fighting AND two-handed attacks taking away the potential of more chances to hit or larger damage dice. I don't feel it needs any further mechanical balancing for a +2 to AC. Thematically/narratively, there are many examples in history and media of warriors with a shield being very nimble and reactive in battle so I couldn't really justify it there either. I don't think a character who is proficient in using shields should need to use any of their action economy to keep it between themselves and an enemy.