4E: can it do low magic?

[sfgiants]

Hello all. I am semi-interested in the goings on with 4e. I am unlikely to play it any time soon (maybe never) but am interested if it would work for the style of game I like to play. I like low magic, limited magical effects, not a lot of magical gear and a sense that danger is everywhere. I like the points of light idea...does it integrate with the system to allow for a low magic feel?

PS: Mostly looking for opinions from those that have read the books...

 

[malraux]

Yes. Remove the arcane and divine classes. Then give every character +1 to attack, damage, AC and defenses and +1d6 on crits per 5 levels. To a large extent, that's it. Thereafter, its up to the DM to figure out what magic items and rituals to reallow. But you'll still have a reasonably balanced game.

And seriously, it does appear to be that easy.

 

[pukunui]

Mike Mearls was on here a while back saying that if you wanted to do low magic, it wouldn't be all that hard. Just limit classes to the four that use the Martial Power Source (fighter, rogue, ranger, warlord). Take the expected magic item bonuses and add them as class bonuses instead. Don't allow rituals (or make them very rare). That sort of thing.

Having perused the books myself, it looks like it shouldn't be too hard to do. Everything's pretty transparent.

 

[Rechan]

Exactly what malraux, except add NPCs that can use Ritual magic as the only source of magic.

 

[evildm]

In fact, while reading through the books I keep getting the impression that it'd be a great fit for a Conan-styled Swords and Sorcery kind of game.

 

[JRRNeiklot]

Low magic, yes, low powered, no.

 

[Fallen Seraph]

Low magic, yes, low powered, no.

I wouldn't say so, power level is subjective. So aslong as Kobolds can still kick the PCs asses and Goblins can make them run for the hills (as many games of 4e have shown), I wouldn't say it is impossible to play "low powered".

If you don't want the players taking on high-level demons, etc. Just keep them in Heroic and your fine.