First, Eric, this isn't at all trying to nerf anything
I just need to understand how this is supposed to work for the future.
The Long Spear (Pike) is a weapon that's a 20' long stick with a spearhead. It has 20' Reach. I understand that Reach has disadvantages attacking something closer than it's reach amount. However, I have trouble suspending my disbelief at how it can be moved around in any fashion within an enclosed space and hit targets that aren't side by side.
My question is really this:
1) Do I need to worry about that? Are we to, for the sake of mechanics, assume the pike is like any weapon and just let it be used as written in any situation? (Basically don't add any 'cover' modifiers to people 20' away in the midst of melee combat, etc.)
2) Do we make on the fly rulings that keep things realistic? Does the pike wielder need an amount of space behind him (opposite side of the direction he is attacking) in order to adjust the length for attacking? Do I add 'cover' bonuses for enemies that are in melee with people in between the attacker and the target, etc.?)
I'm okay with either response but it's one of those things that I want to ensure is done as consistently as possible for the player.
Thanks,
John