How to Tell if a Weapon is One-Handed or Two-Handed Without Equipping It: A Guide for RPG Players
Many RPGs require players to make critical decisions about their character's build. Choosing the right weapons is a crucial part of this process. But how do you know if a weapon is designed for one or two hands without actually equipping it? This can be especially tricky when browsing merchants' inventories or loot drops.
Let's take a look at some common ways RPGs provide this information:
1. Weapon Icons:
This is the most straightforward method. Most games use distinct icons to represent one-handed and two-handed weapons.
- One-handed weapons often have an icon representing a single hand holding a weapon. This could be a sword, dagger, mace, or axe.
- Two-handed weapons usually feature an icon depicting two hands gripping a weapon, like a greatsword, polearm, or staff.
2. Weapon Name:
The name itself can often provide a clue. Look out for keywords like "greatsword," "longsword," or "two-handed axe," which are clear indicators of two-handed weapons. Conversely, "shortsword," "dagger," or "mace" usually signify one-handed weapons.
3. Weapon Description:
Many games include detailed descriptions of items in their inventories. The description might mention the weapon's size, weight, or how it's used, giving you clues about its hand requirements. For example, a description stating "this heavy axe requires two hands to wield effectively" leaves no room for doubt.
4. Character Stats:
Some games link weapon usage to character stats. For example, you might see a "One-Handed Weapons" stat and a "Two-Handed Weapons" stat. Checking these stats will tell you which weapon categories your character is proficient with.
5. Tooltip Information:
When hovering over a weapon in your inventory or a merchant's list, a tooltip might appear with additional information. This tooltip could display the weapon's damage, speed, and hand requirements.
6. In-Game Experimentation:
If you're still unsure, you can try to equip the weapon. Some games will allow you to "try on" an item without actually equipping it, letting you see if it fits your character's hand requirements.
Beyond the Basics:
While these methods generally work, some games might have unconventional approaches. Be sure to pay attention to the game's interface and menus to understand how it categorizes weapons.
Remember, understanding how to identify one-handed and two-handed weapons is essential for making informed choices about your character's build, optimizing your gameplay, and ultimately dominating your RPG world!
Helpful Resources:
- Game Wiki: Most popular RPGs have dedicated wikis with in-depth information about weapons, including their hand requirements.
- Game Forums: Online forums are great places to ask questions and learn from other players about specific weapons and their mechanics.
- Game Guides: Numerous online guides and walkthroughs can provide detailed information about weapon types and their usage in different RPGs.
