> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.pixelwar.com/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.pixelwar.com/items/weapons-and-shields.md).

# Weapons and Shields

### **The Types**

There are several different types of items, which vary by class. 

### **Main Hand vs Off Hand**

**Main Hand (MH):** Most weapons can be main hand weapons. Which specific weapons can be used are based on the pixel hero's class.

* Melee Weapons
  * **Great Weapon**: A great weapon can only be wielded by a warrior, and only one can be equipped at a time.
* Magic Weapons
  * **Staff and Wand**: A staff or wand can only be wielded by a mage, and only one of this type of weapon can be equipped at a time.

**Offhand (OH):** The weapon (or other item) used in the offhand is defined by class. 

* <img src="/files/TM2tspmXlu4aERtqCUnD" alt="" data-size="line"> [Warriors](/pixel-heroes/classes/warrior.md) use shields.
* <img src="/files/XPEvZH1ZSo1UfoQff9L8" alt="" data-size="line"> [Rogues](/pixel-heroes/classes/rogue.md) dual wield, so they can use another melee weapon.
* <img src="/files/AOjiWr6SbQ0aQCzVuQpp" alt="" data-size="line"> [Mages](/pixel-heroes/classes/mage.md) use occult items.

A hero’s main hand weapon will always define the damage type (unless it is a shield, in which case the off-hand weapon defines it, as a shield “main hand” is main hand for cosmetic reasons only.)

**NOTE**: Main hand and offhand can be represented in either hand on the hero card.

### The Finer Points of Mayhem

All damage types are associated with at least one Aspect.

* If a hero’s Aspect matches the damage type they are attacking with, they get a small damage bonus.
* If a hero’s Aspect matches the damage type of an incoming attack, they get a slight absorption bonus (ie: take slightly less damage) or they get a slight increase to the associated saving throw.