[DnD 5e] Runewords System (Looking for Feedback) — working with SC Simple Sockets
Hey everyone
I’m currently developing a Runeword system that integrates with my module SC Simple Sockets, and I’d love to get some feedback before I lock in core behavior.
How it works (current idea)
- You socket gems into an item
- If the gems match a specific order + combination, a Runeword activates
- The item itself stays the same
- It gains:
- Activities
- Active Effects
The big design question
Should a single item be able to have multiple Runewords?
Example
Let’s say you have a 4-socket item:
[ A ] [ B ] [ C ] [ D ]
And these Runewords exist:
- AB → Runeword 1
- CD → Runeword 2
Options I’m considering
1. Diablo-style (one Runeword only)
- Entire item must match ONE combination
- Runeword need matchs slots
- No splitting
Clean
Easy to balance
Less creative
2. Multiple Runewords
- Each valid combo activates independently
More build variety
More sandbox feel
Could get out of hand fast
Edge case (important)
[ A ] [ B ] [ C ]
- AB = Runeword X
- BC = Runeword Y
Should both work?
Should overlapping be blocked?
Should one take priority?
Looking for opinions
- Do you prefer a Diablo-like strict system?
- Or a more flexible/custom system?
- Would stacking Runewords feel fun or broken?
This system is being built specifically to work with SC Simple Sockets, so your feedback here will directly shape how it behaves.
Appreciate any thoughts