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Message: <blockquote data-quote="Shadowdweller" data-source="post: 2263760" data-attributes="member: 14563">A very tricky subject, this balance discussion.  Much like the discussion between the relative powers Clerics versus Wizards, I think one really has to compare the spell/power list.  Which is difficult and often subjective.Some general opinions I have between the two:* Arcane casters generally have a much greater spell list, and HUGELY greater out-of-combat potential.  From dealing with random non-monster challenges (such as a yawning chasm) to shaping the environment about them, to creating economically unbalancing sources of iron.  As a corollary, many psionic powers...way TOO many if you ask me...only see use in combat.  They've lots of nice combat buffs, and blasting powers.  But little else.* Partly as a result of a greater spell list, arcane spells are much better at dealing with a variety of save weaknesses.  That is, there are much more nasty arcane spells spread out between the three types...fortitude, reflex, will.* Arcane casters have better party-buffs.  As noted by everyone else, from Haste to Polymorph.* Arcane casters have better battlefield control spells.  Web, Acid Fog, Evard's Black Tentacles and the like.* Most of the discussion regarding Psion power actually centers on a very FEW number of specific powers.  The Psion gets the benefit of casting these spontaneously, expansively, and with very high save DCs.  Examples: Energy Missile, Psionic Domination, Dispel Psionics.* Aside from these few powers, and DESPITE augmentation capabilities, I actually find that the breadth and versatility of INDIVIDUAL spells tends to be much greater than that of psionic powers.  Example:  Plane Shift as a power is a utlity/travel ability.  As a spell (more effective for clerics, obviously) it's a utility/travel ability AND a will save death spell unless random enemy is equipped to deal with the Elemental Plane of Schmooze.  Example: Illusion spells vs False Sensory Perception.Please note, I don't see these as necessarily meaning that the arcane caster is more powerful (or vise versa).  The capability to blast for more damage per round is a significant advantage at times.  But these DO serve to mitigate things.</blockquote>

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