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Message: <blockquote data-quote="Gaiden" data-source="post: 177605" data-attributes="member: 103">I want to do a case study of one summon monster spell to provide an overall argument that they are already balanced as is.Look at Summon Monster IV with the Lantern Archon.Regardless of the actual CR of this creature think about its abilities with relation to a 7th level cleric.  When the creature is summoned an instant magic circle against evil goes up.  Therefore, that is one less spell that the cleric has to pray for and cast during a battle.  However, on top of that, the Archon has the Menace ability (granted it is only DC 11) which will most likely only effect creatures with pretty much no will save bonus and even then only 50% of the time.  Along with both of these abilities, the archon can communicate with anything intelligent as well as actually fight.  Two touch attacks each dealing 1d6 dmg per round is nothing to snuff at.Finally, the archon can cast aid.  Again, this takes the place of either bless or aid that the cleric would cast.  The archon can float around casting aid on any needy allies or make 2 touch attacks or fly at a speed of 60' with perfect agility or teleport to continually flank any relevant creature that perhaps moves after the initial summoning.So for a 4th level spell you get a third level spell cast automatically, not to mention the ability to cast at least 7 2nd level spells, aid, (that are actually useful), as well as the option of attacking with ranged touch attacks.Also with DR 20/+1 and the intelligence to stay away from big bad guys, there is a very good chance this archon will be surviving most normal attacks.If anything, just the ability to have a 3rd level spell cast and also get in two touch attacks each dealing 1d6 dmg in one round is very useful.I must admit that the lower level summon spells are less useful.  However, setting up flanks can truly turn the tide of a battle.  I really have to say that I think they are balance as is.</blockquote>

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