Changing spell save DCs

[Nellisir]

So I've house-ruled that the save DCs of spells are calculated thusly: 10+ 1/2 character level (rounded up) + appropriate ability modifier. This...

1. makes multiclass spellcasters a little more potent, while still denying them higher level spells;
2. ups the power of lower-level spells, making them a little more attractive at higher levels of play;
3. brings spell save DCs in line with spell-like powers (but slightly more powerful).
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   It also...
   1. sets the DC of all spells at the highest mark, making poor save bonuses that much more of a weakness;
   2. reduces the effectiveness of the heighten spell feat
   3. increases the usefulness (and potential abuse) of the empower spell and maximize spell feats.
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      Good idea? Bad idea? Other thoughts?
      
      Nell.

 

[MarauderX]

I like it.

I house rule the spells DCs myself in a similiar fashion, only I keep what the PHB has and add on 1/3 caster level. The problem I have found is that a wizard casting charm person has a DC of 10+Int+spell level+1/3 level, so a 1st level wizard will have a DC=12+Int. On the other hand, a 20th level wizard will have a DC=18+Int, making the save harder, but not impossible - as it should be.

Your method relies more on the caster level, and by the time you get to 20th level your charm person DC=20+Int, not a whole lot different by comparison. With my method above the saves are slightly harder in the beginning and don't ramp up as fast.

Swapping out the spell level of 1/2 caster level doesn't seem that unfair as you pointed out. Only one way to see if it can be thoroughly abused - run it! Pit a mob of mages against the party, all casting spells that require saving throws and see how it works. Use a high level sorcerer that only throws charms, suggestion, hold person, etc. at the party, and see how his higher DCs begin to have an effect.

 

[DaveStebbins]

The only downside that I see is that it takes the spell level completely out of the DC math. A caster's first level spells have the same DC as his 8th level spells.

Your post shows that you are aware of this (I'm only pointing out the obvious), but I wanted to emphasize that this may be a problem for some players. I wouldn't have a problem with it as a player, but I prefer the book method. No particular reason beyond preferring different DCs for different level spells.

-Dave

 

[Nellisir]

Yeah, I've thought about that, but I've finally settled on the side of powerful character = powerful spell, regardless of level. I understand the other argument, though. I didn't think this would be a solution for everyone, but I was curious to see if I was missing something big.

Cheers
Nell.