Karlssonontheroof wrote:"That's just flavour text. Since the UK version has the same text it would mean that the UK Borin's would also require a cross-reference to the plate mail armour and therefore restrict the wizard from wearing it; which we know from the sticker pack that the wizard can indeed wear it (is shown wearing Borins in a picture).
This is not true, the European version simply states: "Borin's Armor allows you to roll four combat dice on your defence." This says nothing about the wizard, makes no specifics regarding platemail, chainmail nor helmets, which reasons why it was more specific in the North American version:
"This magical suit of plate mail allows the wearer to roll four combat dice in defense. Unlike normal plate mail, this mysterious, ultralight metal does not slow down it's wearer.
May not be used by the Wizard. "
A much broader distinction is given in the North American version, as the European one us too vague and lead to multiple interpretations.
The US version specifies it's plate mail, neither plate nor chainmail can be worn by the Wizard. The European version doesn't say it's either and nor does it disqualify the Wizard from wearing it.
As a matter of fact, none of the European artifacts disqualify the Wizard from making use of them.
The Spirit Blade and Orc's Bane aren't even specified to be Broadswords or Short Swords, respectively, thus the Wizard
is allowed to wield them!
I could also point out that the Wand of Recall doesn't disqualify the Barbarian and Dwarf in the European version either.
The Wizard, having such limitations in the North American version, doesn't really get a chance to shine as the main character. He's always there for "support" but doesn't usually get the final blow against the boss.
For some in the European game, given the number of characters, weapons and armor, some play that the cards are the only pieces of equipment the heroes can buy, as in only one hero can wield the battle axe, only 2 helmets can be bought, the card goes to the hero that bought it, so on and so forth. And it's still a matter of conjecture to some whether this is the way it was meant to be played or not. So in regards to Borin's Armor being 4 defense dice, instead of +2 defense, some can assume this encapsulates the helmet too.
This is not the way I view it, though, i play it by the North American rules.