Swordmage Class

[Intrope]

Yet a 3.5 ninja isn't a psionic PC, and clearly uses ki. I don't think the fluff is all that clear...

I think that's mostly because Psionics isn't core, and therefore can't be used in non-psionic books (like PHB or Complete Adventurer). If Psi makes into a core book (PHB 2?), then it would make sense to make Monks & Ninjas as Psi weilders.

 

[Rechan]

I think it's an important distinction to make that Psionic doesn't necessitate Psionic Powers. The Soulknife's power comes from a psionic source, but he doesn't have Psionic powers.

Psionics is just "harnessing the power of the mind/body by discipline or focus". The fluff for psionics is that the yogi who can walk across hot coals or take an arrow in the chest is no different than the guy who sets something on fire by thinking really hard about it. "I want it to happen so bad that it happens."

This is different than Magic in the sense that, as far as I know, the fluff of magic is more channeling and directing an outside force. To mix metaphor, Magic is like the Force - all around you, and you must channel and direct for the desired effect. (Even if Jedi are more like psions in the effect sense, I'm saying they're wizards in the "manipulate outside power to do what you want it to do" sense).

 

[Klaus]

Yet a 3.5 ninja isn't a psionic PC, and clearly uses ki. I don't think the fluff is all that clear...

And so is a monk, so what's your point? The fluff (iirc, it was in Secrets of Sarlona) states simply that psionics encompasses the ability known as "ki". So whenever you read "ki", it represents the same inner power tapped by Psions and other psionic charcaters.

How can it be clearer?

 

[Khaalis]

I have to agree with other posts. I expect to see Swordmage in the equivalent of the Complete Arcane Power (4X) released in the 2008 schedule. I do not think they would have given the thumbs up to an entire trilogy based on the Swordmage, to be released in the 2008 product line) if it wasn't going to see the light of day until some time in 2009+. However, the timing might be slightly off and it be seen very early in 2009, but I wouldn't expect a full year delay from PHB1 to seeing the Swrodmage.

Just as a side note, I believe they are going to be intent on taking systems and concepts people liked most from 3.5X and translating them in theory over to 4X. The swordmage is basically a translation of all the melee/spellslinger combinations attempted over the years (duskblade, hexblade, etc.). I believe they will do the same for other power sources that were received well. Thus, I am putting bets on PHB2 = Psionic, Incarnum and either Shadow or Binding power sources.

Following this model, with a 3 New Core each year (PH, DMG, MM) and 3 corresponding splatbooks, they have a solid 6 "heavy book" core product list for the year which can then be supplimented by all of the other product lines (adventures, campaign world material, novels, map tiles, minis, etc.)

 

[Khaalis]

And so is a monk, so what's your point? The fluff (iirc, it was in Secrets of Sarlona) states simply that psionics encompasses the ability known as "ki". So whenever you read "ki", it represents the same inner power tapped by Psions and other psionic charcaters.
How can it be clearer?

I agree with you Klaus, but you have to understand that some people have a problem understanding more "open" or "generic" concepts. Some people expect a Ninja, Monk, Samurai, etc. (or any "eastern" class really) to use "ki" or "chi" and will only accept the class if it says specifically that. They have problems understanding that psionics is a metaphor for any/all "inner strength/energy" power sources. However, if written well enough, the fluff SHOULD be able to get the point across to even the most stubborn reader. Personally, I see psionics as definitely fitting as the "power source" for all such "inner power" classes, not just "mental mages" as many people see psionics.