Monday, November 1, 2010
0-Level Spells
Cantrips Love'em or Leave'em?
I'm curious to see what others think about the no level spells or Cantrips, or sometimes called Apprentice level spells. I was working on my spell list/magic system and liked the addition of them...for now. I've never used them before and think they will add a nice dimension to the game.
My introduction to cantrips was Unearthed Arcana. For a short time our group used the hell out of them, but they were quickly forgotten. One of the things I am doing is getting rid of the redundancy where the spell creates some simple noise. I put them all under one spell, Create Sound which allows the player to create a tapping, creaking, moaning, or whistling sound. No words. I took out all the cantrips that made others do something, such as belch, giggle and sneeze as some examples. For a low level spell I don't think it is appropriate that it can control another person's action.
I did want to keep the spells useful though. Most are simple convenience of life spells, but some can really make a difference. Such as Find Water spell in the desert would come in real handy. Also Alarm will help with keeping the campsite safe on those long trips. There is also a couple of low level attack spells. Fire Finger does 1d3 damage so a magic-user won't have to waste a precious spell slot to get rid of a giant rat.
I've included a download link to the list I have right now. There are a few more cantrips I want to add, but still compiling the information. My system includes the usage of spell points (SPs) and the ability to increase a spell's potency by increasing the number of SPs.
I am curious how others have used cantrips in the past and if it worked out. Any suggestions would be helpful and if you like what I have so far that is helpful to know also.
It's Monday and I am on vacation. Don't hate me. Muhahahaha.
Forgot to add the link. 0 level Spell List