open ended magical systems
Open ended magic- Instead of focusing on one set of laws or processes to achieve magical ends i have decided to go with an open ended system where many systems could be used seperatly to achieve the same ends.
For my campaign I have decided to no narrow my magical system into one set of rules or ideas. Instead I have done the opposite. We don't know all science and how it interacts and so I am trying to create a magic "system" which relies on several dozen different magic systems which can be used separately to achieve similar ends.
Moreover I want to have these systems be able to work together in open ended ways, with the results being more predictable the closer the two systems are.
For example, the art of enchantment relies on binding magical forces to items in set routines. Runic magic relies on an ancient language of written words of power. The two systems are dissimilar but both require a lot of work and are usually used to create enchantments and so share some similarities. Thus, the interaction of the two could create somewhat predictable results. An enchanted sword of flame, inscribed with a rune for cold could thus burn and emit cold, cracking rock (or perhaps itself). Or the result could be a sword, which emits cold fire. Or perhaps one that does extra fire damage to creatures of cold etc. By combining systems could range from predictable to wildly unpredictable.
So my request and challenge to everyone is for different magic systems (means to ends, not ends) and how the various systems could theoretically interact with other systems.
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? Responses (2)
Runebearer, Darkurthe Legends, Midian, and Palladium Fantasy all have various magic systems with that feature. An example is here: http://lostsouls.damnserver.com/Magic.htm#Traditions
As for this idea, it is really not "done" at all. It stands as a declaration without any work done on it.
It needs examples. Even if it does not have specific examples, it needs general ones to illuminated. Then it needs one to three of your spell lists.
As it is right now, it is a 1. It is not well written, it is not well defined, and there is not enough material here to raise it beyond that.
Oh yes, can you capitalize the title?
I am also wondering what system you are used to looking at? Not that you need to stat thigns that way, but to give us a point of view. Your declaration is not stunning or innovative for most of us, as we are not used to Vancian magic or Locked spell lists.