Though I agree that druids using metal is kinda like a sin, druids can use metal and wear metal armor. There is nothing saying they can't in 5e, and nothing saying they lose their ability to cast spells.
PHB states, "druids will not wear armor or use shields made of metal.". The implication is that they choose to not do it. It is a matter of will. Nothing says they can't.
Druids have a taboo against wearing metal armor and wielding a metal shield. The taboo has been part of the class’s story since the class first appeared in Eldritch Wizardry (1976) and the original Player’s Handbook (1978). The idea is that druids prefer to be protected by animal skins, wood, and other natural materials that aren’t the worked metal that is associated with civilization. Druids don’t lack the ability to wear metal armor. They choose not to wear it. This choice is part of their identity as a mystical order. Think of it in these terms: a vegetarian can eat meat, but chooses not to.
So, I think it should be allowed, but there should certainly be ramifications. A druid sees your druid wearing metal should criticize you and look down on you. "What is this? You're no druid. No self respecting druid would DARE use metal. Vulgar! An outrage!"
I pretty much agree with everything else.
You hit the nail on the head, however the correct conclusion is the opposite of the point you made.
To get the benefits of the Druid class, you must be a Druid. To be a Druid you must, well BE A DRUID. "Druids will not wear armor..."
It says it right there.
Exactly the same with your comparison.
a vegetarian can eat meat, but chooses not to. Correct, but by definition, being a vegetarian means you don't eat meat. The moment you eat meat, you're not a vegetarian.
The moment you wear armor or use shields made of metal, you're no longer a Druid.
As far as this armor not having the same numbers attached to it as this other armor that my character can't wear because this game isn't fair....TOO BAD. That's life.
If you want to play a Druid, then play a Druid!
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But I want all the benefits of being a Paladin, but I'm going to be a really chaotic Paladin, and not adhere to any of the rules of the Paladin, but I'm still a Paladin....
Just NO.
