I'm working out a spell that temporarily enhances other spells from the caster so that they penetrate SR more effectively. The conceptual framework is that it creates a sort of mystical "lens" that other spells are focused through, allowing them to blast through SR.
Mechanically I'm thinking something along the following lines:
Shayuri's Spell Lens
Evocation (could also be Transmutation since it transmutes other spells)
Sor/Wiz 4
Components: V, S, M
Target: Personal
Casting Time: 1 action
Duration: 1 min/level
This spell creates an invisible metaphysical lens in front of the caster. Spells focused through the lens gain +4 on caster level checks versus spell resistance. This is a special bonus that stacks with any other applicable bonuses to SR penetration checks.
That'd be the basic effect. I'm considering putting in limitations as to what kind of target/effect/type of spell can be focused by means of this spell, though doing so would add complications to what is essentially a very simple mechanic.
Ideas include:
1) Only spells that cause physical damage (ie - no Enchantment, Transmutation, etc)
2) Spells can only be "focused" against a single target, chosen when the spell is cast (not when the lens is cast). This means an area or multiple target spell will have normal effect on all eligible targets -except- the one designated as focused for that casting...against whom the spell enjoys the bonus to SR penetration.
3) Spells that create lasting effects that are subject to SR (Mage's Sword for example) are not eligible to be focused.
4) Focusing a spell is a full-round action, as if a sorceror were casting it as a metamagic spell. If a sorceror casts a focused metamagic spell it requires 1 full round casting time.
5) The lens is a physical or semi-physical force, and can be damaged with attacks, or disintegrated, by any foe capable of percieving it and doing so.
So! Here's where y'all come in. The GM tentatively approves of the core mechanic of the spell, but asked me to put it through the balance wringer here in Enworld before submitting a semifinal draft to him.
Spell level, bonus to caster level...those things are negotiable. The various mitigators listed are just ideas I had that seem in concept for the spell idea, and could help fine tune the overall power level.
Any thoughts on if this spell will work as is, or if it needs to be thwacked with the Mighty Stick of Balancing?
Thanks!
Mechanically I'm thinking something along the following lines:
Shayuri's Spell Lens
Evocation (could also be Transmutation since it transmutes other spells)
Sor/Wiz 4
Components: V, S, M
Target: Personal
Casting Time: 1 action
Duration: 1 min/level
This spell creates an invisible metaphysical lens in front of the caster. Spells focused through the lens gain +4 on caster level checks versus spell resistance. This is a special bonus that stacks with any other applicable bonuses to SR penetration checks.
That'd be the basic effect. I'm considering putting in limitations as to what kind of target/effect/type of spell can be focused by means of this spell, though doing so would add complications to what is essentially a very simple mechanic.
Ideas include:
1) Only spells that cause physical damage (ie - no Enchantment, Transmutation, etc)
2) Spells can only be "focused" against a single target, chosen when the spell is cast (not when the lens is cast). This means an area or multiple target spell will have normal effect on all eligible targets -except- the one designated as focused for that casting...against whom the spell enjoys the bonus to SR penetration.
3) Spells that create lasting effects that are subject to SR (Mage's Sword for example) are not eligible to be focused.
4) Focusing a spell is a full-round action, as if a sorceror were casting it as a metamagic spell. If a sorceror casts a focused metamagic spell it requires 1 full round casting time.
5) The lens is a physical or semi-physical force, and can be damaged with attacks, or disintegrated, by any foe capable of percieving it and doing so.
So! Here's where y'all come in. The GM tentatively approves of the core mechanic of the spell, but asked me to put it through the balance wringer here in Enworld before submitting a semifinal draft to him.
Spell level, bonus to caster level...those things are negotiable. The various mitigators listed are just ideas I had that seem in concept for the spell idea, and could help fine tune the overall power level.
Any thoughts on if this spell will work as is, or if it needs to be thwacked with the Mighty Stick of Balancing?
Thanks!
