Even in D&D, light armor (read magical) provides superior protection without encumbering movement. If you read the advanced 2nd rules and 3rd too I think, normal plate caps your dex so you basically don't get a dex adjustment for AC.
Having magical leather or elven chain is much better (especially when you have an elf's racial max dex) for being harder to hit.
For D&D rules, yes, shield or spec in single weapon is better but for story-telling, dual weapons is why Drizzt is feared. |