Draconic Breath feat

[Ambrus]

I was looking at the Draconic Breath feat in Races of the Dragon and I wanted some feedback about it since there's no errata or FAQ entry clarifying the feat that I could find. What would be the result if I were to expend a cantrip to fuel the feat? Since cantrips are usually counted as a half-level spell for item creation costs would the result be a 1d6 damage breath weapon; effectively half of the usual 2d6 per spell level? Also, the wording of the feat is rather unclear on whether you're allowed to switch between energy types or if you have to choose a single energy type and stick with it. Thoughts?

 

[Pinotage]

I was looking at the Draconic Breath feat in Races of the Dragon and I wanted some feedback about it since there's no errata or FAQ entry clarifying the feat that I could find. What would be the result if I were to expend a cantrip to fuel the feat? Since cantrips are usually counted as a half-level spell for item creation costs would the result be a 1d6 damage breath weapon; effectively half of the usual 2d6 per spell level? Also, the wording of the feat is rather unclear on whether you're allowed to switch between energy types or if you have to choose a single energy type and stick with it. Thoughts?

Well, my suggestion would be that nothing would happen if you used a cantrip. 0 (spell level) multiplied by 2d6 still gives zero. One could argue that it does 1d6, but I'd argue the former case. I think Arcane Strike works the same way.

You're only allowed to use the energy type associated with your Dragon Heritage, I believe. If you don't have one of the basic four, you choose one, but once chosen you can't change it. Or, you could use Energy Substitution with it - I think the Draconic Power feat mentions that it's possible.

Pinotage

 

[brehobit]

As a note, the feat also exists in Complete Arcane (not sure if it exactly the same or not).

I'd agree that a cantrip would do nothing. I'd probably allow a fire show (no damage) or something.

On this topic, anyone else notice how huge this feat is at lower levels? Mightly handy at levels 1-5 for a sorc. Once you have 3rd level spells it seems a bit more "blah" but still handy. Also, as I recall, it is Su and so can be used in a grapple, when tied up, etc.

Nice...

 

[Greylock]

The Feat is the same in CA, and I agree with the previous two posts. I read Draconic Breath as requiring the use of a 1st level spell or better. And I plan on taking the Feat as a player soon.

 

[Pinotage]

As a note, the feat also exists in Complete Arcane (not sure if it exactly the same or not).

I'd agree that a cantrip would do nothing. I'd probably allow a fire show (no damage) or something.

On this topic, anyone else notice how huge this feat is at lower levels? Mightly handy at levels 1-5 for a sorc. Once you have 3rd level spells it seems a bit more "blah" but still handy. Also, as I recall, it is Su and so can be used in a grapple, when tied up, etc.

Nice...

The other advantage for sorcerers in particular is that it allows them to always have a damage spell handy. That means they can use their limited spells for more utility.

Pinotage

 

[Deset Gled]

The other advantage for sorcerers in particular is that it allows them to always have a damage spell handy. That means they can use their limited spells for more utility.

Yeah, I gotta say I love the Draconic feats. Draconic Breath really helps the sorcerer in choosing their limited number of known spells.

For more fun with Draconic Breath, mix in the Metabreath feats from the Draconomicon. Maximize Breath Weapon and Quicken Breath Weapon are my two favorites.