Final answer:
Barbarians in Dungeons & Dragons are proficient in light and medium armor, as well as shields. They are not proficient in heavy armor, which is consistent with their role as agile warriors in the game. The choice of armor impacts a Barbarian's combat effectiveness and can interact with class features such as Unarmored Defense.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question pertains to the armor proficiencies that Barbarians, a character class in the role-playing game Dungeons & Dragons, have. In the context of the game, each class has specific types of armor that they are proficient in. Proficiency in armor determines whether a character can effectively wear and utilize it in combat without suffering penalties. For Barbarians, who are known for their brute strength and combat prowess, armor proficiency is important as it impacts their defensive capabilities during gameplay.
Barbarians start with proficiency in light armor and medium armor, as well as shields. Light armor tends to offer less protection but allows for greater mobility, which can be beneficial for a class that often relies on speed and agility in combat. Medium armor provides a balance between protection and mobility. Shields add an extra layer of defense, improving a Barbarian's ability to block or absorb incoming attacks.
Barbarians do not have proficiency with heavy armor, which is more restrictive but offers higher protection. The lack of proficiency in heavy armor aligns with the Barbarian's typical role of a swift and agile warrior, who might find heavy armor too cumbersome for their fighting style. This is also reflected in the game mechanics, since wearing armor you're not proficient with can impose disadvantages such as a penalty to ability checks, attack rolls, and saving throws that involve strength or dexterity.