A question on armor check penalty

[taproot]

Um, what is an armor check penalty? I'm using a ranger/rogue and I realize that I can't be quick and nimble in some honking armor, but I have a breastplate currently and its giving me an armor check penalty...what does it mean??? THANKS!

[Tobbin]

Originally posted by taproot: Um, what is an armor check penalty? I'm using a ranger/rogue and I realize that I can't be quick and nimble in some honking armor, but I have a breastplate currently and its giving me an armor check penalty...what does it mean??? THANKS!

It means that the armor is restrictive. When you are trying to do something that needs dexterity, the armor check penalty is adjusting your dexterity by saying you don't have complete movement. Think of it like this: You are in a plate of armor, but need to do something with the grace of a ballerina (oversimplified, I know, but . . .) This says how much of a chance that you could pull off that movement with an item that does not yield. By putting on Leather Armor, it is easier to say that you can move the armor in more directions as it yields to movement. Some magical items will negate those checks, so keep looking. [img]smile.gif[/img]