D&D 4E: "Wizards in +20 Godplate..."

Way, way, way back when the latest edition of Dungeons and Dragons debuted many criticisms were leveled. One criticism that I partially shared was the notions of Wizards wearing plate armor. Granted, when the criticism was leveled it was along the lines of wearing Godplate armor. Hence, the title of this post.

As a relatively long-term Dungeons and Dragons player, the notion of Wizards wearing plate armor was a little taboo. However, that particular setting aspect could be ignored for the coolness factor. The major concern was balance. After all, Why wouldn't a Wizard wear plate armor?

Being an early champion of Fourth Edition, I had answers. Since Wizards weren't proficient they'd have to purchase the feat proficiencies. Which if the player wants to play a decent Wizard the character is unlikely to qualify for the feats. Counter-argument: wear the armor unproficient. The penalty isn't all that bad. With little play experience under my belt, I couldn't provide a valid counter.

Since that time, I have played a Wizard quite a bit in Living Forgotten Realms. With all that experience, I have come to a conclusion. It matters. Keeping track of bonuses and penalties is a pain. Even with the accounting, every penalty adds up especially when a characer does't have that many bonuses to begin with. So why not wear godplate? You can but the character won't be as effective.