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Message: <blockquote data-quote="KarinsDad" data-source="post: 3703871" data-attributes="member: 2011">It works out to the same thing though. You assumed that in every single encounter in that module, an AoE energy spell could be used. But, that will not happen in many games. That's an assumption that drastically skews the data from a real game. However, in practically every single encounter in that module, an Orb spell could be used.You are basically saying "No matter how many rounds of area effect, I will have the same number of rounds of Orbs. But, at least one per encounter." And, you analyzed it for every encounter, regardless of the likelihood of that occuring in a real game. You made the likelihood 100% for every single encounter in that module that an AoE could be used. But in a real game, that does not usually happen. 100% of encounters is way too high.On a per spell basis when either spell can be used, your analysis is ok.On a per encounter basis, your analysis is skewed towards AoE energy spells.And people like Mistwell are invalidly using your analysis to support a position that is not accurate.In real games, Orb spells can and often happen on multiple rounds, especially with an Orb specialist (like a Warmage). Orb spells have an additional effect. And Orb spells have a tendency to decrease the number of opponents more often (unless we are talking total mooks who cannot handle AoE energy damage at all and cannot make their saves).In real games, AoE energy spells tend to be cast once per encounter max (on average give or take) with an AoE energy specialist except at higher levels (when Shape Spell can be used). When used, they are very nice. Multiple opponents wounded allows for an easier time for the rest of the team. But, they are not used that often. For example, it is nearly impossible to use AoE energy spells in cramped quarters without hitting an ally. IME, Lightning Bolt tends to be one of the better AoE spells since it is possible to get multiple enemies with it more often, even sometimes in cramped quarters. And, of course, Shaped spells are pretty nice. But many AoE spells are only usable if the combat area is 20+ feet in diameter (usually more) and enemies are congregated towards one side.Your analysis is fine if used only on a: Which spell averages more damage in "if either spell can be used" scenarios?But in many gaming scenarios, either spell cannot be used. Orbs can be used in many more rounds than AoE energy spells, probably by a factor of 3 to 1. The main thing that would prevent an Orb from being used is cover / concealment. And, that does happen. Just not as often as limiting factors to AoEs.And, I do not have a suggestion on how to improve that for you except for you to make a disclaimer that this is only valid in "if either spell can be used" scenarios. You analysis is fine for what it is, but it is a small subset of all combat rounds and hence skews the data if supporting a which spell is better position.</blockquote>

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