Using Outworld Items (Optional)[]
Will a barbarian ever use an item not associated with his culture? No hard and fast rules prevent barbarians from using whatever they like. In theory, at least, a steel kniie is no more difficult to wield than a bone dagger. And anyone with a modicum of common sense can learn to use a spyglass.
But to preserve the integrity of barbarian characters and keep them distinct from standard fighters and clerics, the DM should discourage them from using outworld items. He can accomplish this in several ways:
- Cultural taboos. Tribal tradition obliges the barbarian to use items only available in his homeland.
- Superstition. Fear of supernatural retribution compels the barbarian to avoid outworld goods. Wielding a steel spear or carrying a mirror risks the wrath of angry spirits.
- Ability check and attack-roll penalties. Suggestions appear in the "Forbidden Armor" and "Forbidden Weapons" sections elsewhere in this chapter.
In all cases, adjudicate equipment restrictions with common sense. A barbarian dangling from a cliff probably won't refuse to grab a rope just because it's made of hemp, nor does he turn down a chunk of venison because the deer was killed with a steel sword.
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