Hey Gamers,
So this is a topic I've touched upon before but never really delved deep into with the community.
Item Rarity
So that the Bolter (thank you I will lol), accordingly its supposed to be a rare to very rare item (without looking it up of course for sake of conversation herein). Now if that's the case why are there so many "Bolters" in the possession of so many "statted" foes in the publishing?
Back in my D&D days (which I have formally retired from thank you lol) a rare item was just that - say I ran x20 game sessions - in all that time I would prolly have a Bolter set again you or or as a prize 4 out of the 20 sessions - that's it - get while the getting's good - otherwise go requisition one from the Inquisition...
Same goes for power swords, chain weaponry, etc
In keeping with this thought - I generally replace what the publisher has "given" that stat-generated NPC with two lesser items from the greater single one.
Example - say a Bolter is assigned - I'd take that Bolter and turn it into a Autogun and a primitive weapon.
If its a "boss" or named individual - say an NPC higher up or simply one the GM has designed - we'll then item rarity has no place herein for such tailored individuals and situations...
Another option is to give them the Bolter - that the NPC was written in with - but when the Player "win" the legendary revered weapon its damaged - in fact its at the lowest quality grade of Poor (look it up but I think its -10% to BS put some other sh*tty caveats lol)
Want to repair something in an empire that's on the decline - ohh the men of Mars cant or might not even help and when they do - guess what - "side mission time Players!~
Anyways just some thoughts on item rarity - hopefully this will get some of you thinking - most importantly the game designers and fluff writers...
Stay GAMING
Morbid