Warlock's mirror

Version 0.28: This article may not be up to date for the latest stable release of Crawl.

A handheld array of hexagonal mirrors, synthesized from a truly exotic substance and polished to a blinding sheen. A skilled user will find that it can reflect almost anything, even spells that pierce through lesser materials and hexes with no physical manifestation at all.

the +3 warlock's mirror {reflect}

+3 buckler

Reflection ego
Can also reflect piercing attacks and enchantments

Mechanics

The chance to reflect normally unblockable effects is 2*SH / (2*SH + 40).

This equates to around 24% at 6 SH, reaches 50% at 20 SH, and increases further from there.

Desirability

The warlock's mirror is a fairly useful shield, especially in places with plenty of piercing attacks (such as javelins in the Shoals). Even if the enemy is immune to their own effect, normally unblockable effects are blocked, and a piercing attack may hit a less fortunate monster behind. All sources of SH are welcome, as they still contribute to the shield's effects.

However, this shield is still a buckler. Heavier characters or those with lots of Shields skill might prefer a tower shield or a highly enchanted kite shield, which are more effective against normally blockable attacks. But for those who would use a buckler anyway, there are few better options.

Ogres and Trolls are too large for a buckler, while Felids are unable to use any shield.

History

• Prior to 0.25, the warlock's mirror could not reflect piercing physical projectiles like javelins.
• The warlock's mirror was introduced in 0.18.