Text Reference to Hyborian Greatsword Use

[Rhino]

I am giving this another go, thinking that perhaps my subject header was misleading.

I cannot recall any text reference to the Hyborians having an affinity for the greatsword and am wondering where the game mechanic came from.

Anybody have any ideas?

 

[VincentDarlage]

It is probably more of an inference than a direct quote sort of thing. Most of the races have a racial skill with some weapon or other. Since Hyborians are usually fighting armoured foes (knights, et. al.), it would make sense they would prefer a heavier, armour piercing weapon over a light rapier-style arming sword. It may well be taken from the Nemedian Adventurer in The Hour of the Dragon, who had a great-sword. It is probably there for game balance against the other races more than anything else.

Does it really matter if there is a direct quote or if it is just inference or game balance? If you don't like it, don't use the rule. I have yet to see an Aquilonian PC really take up the Great Sword if the Player envisioned the character fighting with a different weapon. It seems like a strange aspect of the rules to be focused on.

 

[Rhino]

Vincent,

Thanks for the reply.

I think it was curiosity more than anything else that made me want to know what the textual background for the decision was. However, I think that I would have a more difficult time ignoring a rule that had clear textual support. There is something about really striving to capture the details and essence of REH's Hyborian age that strikes a chord with me.

Thanks again,

Rhino