Ye Olde Inn

In the basic game, what are Black Shields used for?

Best I can figure, is that they are a 'nothing', ensuring the desired ratio of shields to skulls.

But I wondered if they have any offical use, either in the main game or one of the expansions? Not had time to read them all yet - nor, to be honest, the main rules hugely thoroughly. My inital quick-read through didn't spot anything, and am feeling lazy and impatient...

Thanks!

Officially, black shields are for monster defence and white shields are for hero defence.

I think it balances things pretty well in the heros' favor. Otherwise, they'd be dying pretty easy. And unless u learn how to play teamwork early on ( which is probably why the maze is 1st quest ) you'll be dying anyway...

A Black Shield is also the only result that can cause a failure for the Dwarf when he Disarms a Trap--North American version.