The Impact of Local Planar Conditions on Mechanical Devices
Just as they effect magic and psionics, the nature of the Outer Planes has an impact on the functioning of mechanical devices. For the purpose of these changes, mechanical (or technological) devices are defined as any devices with complex moving parts. Bows, crossbows, levers, and block and tackle arrangements do not qualify; Automatan clockwork crossbows, watches, firems, and so forth do. If in doubt, consult with the local Powers and your Dungeon Master.
The precise, ordered nature of mechanical devices lends itself quite well to the Planes of Law and poorly to the Planes of Chaos. As a result, these general rules apply:
Here are some suggestions as to what the specific Planar effects on technology could be...
MechanusMechanical devices on this plane function even more efficiently than in the typical Lawful plane. As a result they functionat 100% greater efficiency (range, damage, etc.) and maximum output. However, this puts great stress on the device; any device not specifically designed to handle this stress must save vs. normal blow each time it is used, or it will break.
ArcadiaDue to the regimented, almost ritualized nature of this plane, mechanical devices require twice as much time to function (double speed factors, time required, etc.). Any result from the device will be at maximum effect. However, any device used without the benefit of a large group in mind has a 10% chance of failure each time it is used; this failure may range from simple malfunction to destruction of the device, depending on the function of the device and the whim of the DM.
Mount CelestiaAny device which is not used to benefit the cause of Law and Good has a 20% chance to malfunction.
BytopiaAny device that exists purely as a luxury item (for instance, a i-seater steam-driven chariot sued exclusively for joy riding) has a 30% chance of malfunctioning. Any machine(s) made by the wielder/operator gains the full benefit of a Lawful plane.
ElysiumNo special benefits or penalties, but the Traveler's Way applies to vehicles as well...
BeastlandsEach day, a random mechanical device in an individual's possession has a 50% chance of breaking down into it's unrefined components, effectively destroying the device. Once this occurs, the only way to recreate the device is to rebuild it from the raw materials or use a Limited Wish.
ArboreaNo special bonuses or penalties.
YsgardMechanical devices used to help the wielder become a great warrior function under no penalties at all; however, if the machine is the sole reason the warrior is a great warrior, normal penalties apply. Mechanical devices used to allow an individual to avoid battle suffer under double the normal penalties for a Chaotic plane.
LimboMachinery will not function at all in the raw chaos of omiLb, and any attempt to use the device results in an 80% chance of the device dissolving away into pure chaos as well. Within controlled terrain the device functions under normal penalties for a Chaotic plane.
PandemoniumNo special bonuses or penalties.
The AbyssMachinery used to benefit Chaos and Evil does not suffer the penalties for being in a Chaotic plane.
CarceriMachinery used for selfish reasons suffers no penalties for operating in a Chaotic plane.
Grey WasteAll machinery has a cumulative 1% chance per day to break down, due to the wasting effects of the plane. This is a permanent alteration to the device, and can only be repaired with a Limited Wish.
GehennaNo special bonuses or penalties.
BaatorAny machine used to establish dominance over someone else has double the bonuses of a Lawful plane when used on that person.
AcheronMachinery has a perfect outcome when used (maximum damage, output, etc.). However, the "equal reaction" required by the plane means that if the device is not designed to produce it's opposite effect as well (firearm with a medical kit, factory that destroys as much as it creates, etc.) the device mus save vs. crushing blow each time it is used or be destroyed. Also, the regimented nature of Acheron means that a device that is used for something it is not specifically designed for has a 10% chance of breaking down each time it is so used. |