Alternative Wizard based on the Bard

[Waylander]

Has anyone produced a version of the Wizard class using the Bard as its basis?

I'm considering doing this for a low-magic campaign which wouldn't have the current arcane classes.

There are a lot attractions, particularly as the campaign will have a more martial flavour than a standard campaign.

As far as my thinking has gone . . .

Lets call the new class the Magician for the sake of clarity.

BAB/SAVES/Spell Progression as the Bard.

Spells are cast like the Wizard (i.e. need for memorisation and spellbooks).

All simple weapons, light armour.

Bardic Knowledge translates nicely into a "Sage Advice" ability. Also Summon familiar at 1st level.

At later levels could the Bardic Music abilities be supplanted by bonus feats (meta-magic and item creation like the Wizard)? How many would be fair trade?

 

[Khaalis]

I am very confused by your request. If this is a low-magic world and the Wizard doesnt exist why would you want to give the Bard things that are more akin to a higher magic setting like familiars, metamagic and magical item creation?

Assuming that you stick with this logic...I'll give it a shot.

The simplest thing to do would be to change nothing about the bard other than the "Casts Spells As Wizard", Exchange Bardic Music with Familiar at 1st level, Grant Scribe Scroll at 2nd level and Wizard Bonus Feats at 5, 10, 15, 20. there is the blend of Wizard and Bard.

Not really sure what you are looking for other than that.

 

[Erekose]

Interesting . . .

What would be the ramifications of limiting the divine spell casters to 6th level spells as a maximum?

Would it grossly weaken them compared to other classes?

 

[Waylander]

I am very confused by your request.

Sorry if it was confusing - just off the top of my head thought swhile at work

As for the changes suggested for the Bard class - I guess I just didn't want to stray too far from the Wizard class - just reduce the hugely powerful spells at the top end of the spell list.

 

[Darklone]

Knights of the Dinner table included "The learned bard" from Mossfoot... Here's the article.

 

[Waylander]

Knights of the Dinner table included "The learned bard" from Mossfoot... Here's the article.

Thanks for the link!