Psions and variable DC

[JacktheRabbit]

What does everyone think of the Psions variable DC for his powers?

Instead of using the standard DC 10 + ability score mod + power level you use D20 + ability score mod + power level.

This makes it much harder for a Psion (or psychic warrior) to depend on their abilities since the effectiveness of their abilities can swing very wildly from round to round.

 

[BryonD]

I don't think it makes much difference.

The math winds up being pretty close to the same. A raw save roll of 19 will tend to beat a wizard's DC under normal reasonably balanced caster/target circumstances. A save roll of 19 might still fail if the psion rolled well. But at the same time a roll of 2 might win if the psion rolled really poorly. It cancels out.

Give's psionics a bit more distinction. Somethin they could use a bit more of, IMO.

 

[Zappo]

The only bit I dislike is that Maximize Power will turn that 1d20 into an outright 20. For a telepath, this is really a killer. Most of the time, a target without a good will save can't even try the roll.

 

[BryonD]

Is that correct?

I always assumed that the DC roll was not part of the effect itself.

Which, on a tanget, makes maximize power a useless feat. Spending 9 points to maximize 3d6 is a hideous exchange.

 

[Staffan]

The only bit I dislike is that Maximize Power will turn that 1d20 into an outright 20. For a telepath, this is really a killer. Most of the time, a target without a good will save can't even try the roll.

No, it won't. "Saving throws and opposed rolls (such as the one you make when you manifest negate psionics are not affected."