[PsiPower] Blade of the Mind

[Astalanya]

This is something one of my players submitted to me. I'd like some feedback, does it look too powerful? Is it a systematically balanced power? Please feel free to rend, shred, and make it work. Question marks are put where we're unsure what is appropriate.

Blade of the Mind
Psychokinesis (Con)
Level: Psion ??
Display: Au, Vi
Manifestation Time: 1 action
Range: Personal
Target: You
Duration: Instantaneous
Saving Throw: None
Power Resistance: Yes
Power Points: ??

As a move-equivalent action, the psionicist creates one or two semisolid blades of force up to 3 feet (longsword size) in length composed of psychic energy. (Because these are made by the mind - they may be used with flurry attacks using unarmed attack bonuses). The blades are a reflection of the psionicists mind, taking the shape, color, and details as determined by each individual that uses this power.

When the psionicist reaches ?? level, the blades gains +1 enhancement bonus, +2 at ?? level, +3 at ?? level, +4 at ?? level, and +5 at ?? level. Additionally at ?? level, the psionicist can manifest the blade as a free action instead of a move-equivalent action. Even where psionics will not normally function (such as within a null psionics field), the psionicist can try to sustain the blade by making a Fortitude save against the DC set by the creator of the effect. However, despite a successful save, the psionicist must roll again next round to keep the blades in existence.

The base damage of the blade is determined by the psionicists unarmed attack damage with appropriate bonuses - except it is given as slashing/piercing. Also, an extra 1d6 of psionic energy. (+1 equiv in power per the book)

 

[Nifft]

I dunno -- asking for one Power to replace most of a whole PrC? Why can't he just take levels in Soulknife?

-- N

 

[Piratecat]

Yes, this is what the soulknife is for. alternatively, Call Weaponry addresses some of these ideas. In any case, I wouldn't allow this power.

 

[Astalanya]

Thanks!

 

[Erila of Sune]

Actually, this idea might make a good alternative to the Soulknife (Note that I would not allow this in the same campaign as the Soulknife without modifications.) It DOES create a very different flavor, however.

If you envision the "Sword of Energy" as being a very common ability, posessed by many psionic characters, the power is more appropriate.

If the ability is rare, or requires some greater specialization, use the PrC.

If the basic ability is common, but the ability to use it WELL is not, then make a weakened version of the power a prerequisite for the PRC.

As written, I'd say this power is probably fourth or fifth level, third or fourth as a PsiWar ability. It's comparable to Greater Magic Weapon, plus provides the weapon.

As a Soulknife prerequisite, make it a second-level power that only allows the basic sword, with no extra damage beyond a straight 1d6 (Comparable to Flame Blade.)