Converting "generic setting" Second Edition monsters

[Cleon]

Updated. We still need to figure out the treasure entry, and to put weapons on our sample wizard's attack lines.

Oddly, ghost have treasure "None", despite listing a "Ghostly Equipment" sidebar.

The Spectral Wizard has Treasure Type V, which is "any 2" maps and magic items, so how about:

Treasure: Double items

 

[Shade]

Updated.

Do we need to convert this?

Create Spectral Wizard (Necromancy)
8th-level Wizard Spell
Range: Touch
Components: V, S, M
Duration: Permanent
Casting Time: 1 turn
Area of Effect: One wizard
Saving Throw: Special

This spell allows the caster to cause a human or elven wizard or gnome illusionist to die and become a spectral wizard. If the spell is cast on an unwilling recipient, the victim is allowed a saving throw vs. death magic. A successful saving throw negates the spell.

In the process of dying and becoming undead, the spell’s recipient is drained of ld4 levels. Once animated, the spectral wizard is free-willed, but any utterance from its creator acts as a suggestion spell on the spectral wizard.
Only a wish spell can free a spectral wizard of its undead state. Depending on the wording of the wish, the individual may remain dead unless further magic is used; if the wizard is restored to life, there is a 50% chance that he will be restored with his original levels intact. It is possible that another undiscovered process may restore the spectral wizard.

Or would you prefer to come up with different creation mechanics/origins?

 

[freyar]

The update looks pretty good.

I'd probably rather swap the spell for some comments on "arcane rituals" etc. Maybe something about sacrificing experience to account for the loss of caster levels.

 

[Cleon]

Updated.

Do we need to convert this?

I wouldn't bother. Either leave it out or use a standard spell.

 

[Shade]

I'd probably rather swap the spell for some comments on "arcane rituals" etc. Maybe something about sacrificing experience to account for the loss of caster levels.

That actually makes good sense.

 

[freyar]

How about we make the first flavor paragraph

"Spectral wizards are undead creatures who voluntarily entered an eternal unlife to continue their magical pursuits. This transition requires mysterious rituals and a sacrifice of arcane power to fuel the wizard's unending existence.

 

[Shade]

Sounds good. Updated.

Suggested weapons for the attack lines?

 

[freyar]

How about just a dagger? +1 shocking or something?

 

[Cleon]

How about just a dagger? +1 shocking or something?

How about a +1 ghost touch morningstar?

 

[freyar]

Wizards aren't proficient with morningstars.... Edit: I can see the use of ghost touch, sort of, but it would be weird that it needs to manifest to fight incorporeal critters with a ghost touch weapon!