Feeblemind and S-like abilities

[mfrench]

Edit: Reposted for clarity:

Given that the party Archmage has been feebleminded

1) Since it specifically prohibits casting spells, can he use spell-like abilities?
2) Would a 1 Int creature have the presence of mind to use that spell-like ability (greater teleport) to return home (i.e., a comfortable and familiar place)?

Specific citations from FAQ or erratta would carry much more weight than opinions as far as the DM goes, but I am interested in opinions as well.

 

[Al'Kelhar]

Can a feebleminded Archmage use a spell-like ability despite the Int of 1?

IMO, no. The Int and Cha of 1 means that the character in question is operating at a purely instinctive level - dumber and less self-aware than a reptile, and only marginally smarter than vermin - and use of spell-like abilities by a creature which doesn't naturally have them but has gained them through life experience isn't instinctive.

Cheers, Al'Kelhar

 

[Felix]

IMO, no. The Int and Cha of 1 means that the character in question is operating at a purely instinctive level - dumber and less self-aware than a reptile, and only marginally smarter than vermin - and use of spell-like abilities by a creature which doesn't naturally have them but has gained them through life experience isn't instinctive.

Cheers, Al'Kelhar

Though the character in question may not be aware of the situation in which he would be advised to use his SLA, it does not mean he cannot.

 

[Imre]

Consequently this is addressed in the FAQ, in the negative.

The answer given there isn't very detailed, but here is the reasoning:

Spell-like abilities are not usable whilst feebleminded. Feeblemind is it's own state of being, like being confused or stunned. As such, you lose your spell-casting ability not because of the drop in your ability scores but by virtue of the fact that you're feebleminded. That is, Feeblemind doesn't cause ability damage or drain, it's something else entirely. In support of this, a feebleminded cleric can't cast spells even though his Wisdom score is unchanged. On the other hand, if something caused enough ability damage or drain to lower your relevant score to 9, you would effectively lose all spell-casting ability, but you could still use spell-like abilities.

 

[Nail]

Specific citations from FAQ or erratta would carry much more weight than opinions as far as the DM goes,....

The FAQ is unnecessary. Just read the appropriate core rules text.

Spell-Like: Spell-like abilities are magical and work just like spells...

They are like spells, except where otherwise specified. It does not say they may be used while Feebleminded, therefore they cannot be (like spells cannot be).