Who can see in the dark?

[jacar]

I realize that non-human races can generally see in the dark in some capacity, making them favorite choices for dungeon parties. In literature, which races could really see in the dark?

Elves? They seem to have keen senses but could they really see in the dark? They are forest dwellers not subterranean beings.

Dwarves? There is an argument for them being able to see in the dark. However, nothing in Tolkien suggests they could see without light. Not sure about other sources.

Goblins and goblin kind? Probably the strongest argument for being able to see in the dark. Night, after all, is their daylight!

I bring this up because often the ability to see without torch light is viewed as a major boon and folks flock to using those race types that can see without light.

I'd be interested to hear your thoughts on this especially in light of other literary and legendary sources.

John

[apeloverage]

I play that demi-humans have better vision, but can't see without light. That seems to be how it is in The Hobbit at least. I'd probably give goblin PCs the ability to see in the dark.

[coffee]

According to Men & Magic, all player characters need a light source.

All monsters (including NPCs...) encountered in the dungeon can automatically see in the dark.

Very gamey, but modified by Greyhawk.

[geoffrey]

FWIW, I've always played that everybody can see in the dark except for humans and hobbits.

[coffee]

In games I'm in, it doesn't come up as much since there is always a substantial human presence. But it's useful on watch, if you're keeping a cold camp, to have a few who can see in the dark.

[aldarron]

Oct 24, 2010 8:23:11 GMT -6 jacar said:

I'd be interested to hear your thoughts on this especially in light of other literary and legendary sources.

John

Been thinking about this and only two things springs to mind; angels/demons in Judeao/Christian/etc mythology and Grues in Infocom games.

Ghosts, maybe, although its not clear if they really "see".

Most mythological creatures still require a light source, dwarves and elves included.

Some creatures (dragons for ex) were believed to be able to make thier own light shine from thier eyes like headlights.