Free Magic System for OSR Games - Not Everyone Loves Vancian Magic

 

Free Magic System for OSR Games - Not Everyone Loves Vancian Magic 

Schools of Magic and Sub Class

Alchemist - External, Scientist, Herbalist, and Internal Alchemy

Spiritualist  - Gypsy, Tribal Shaman

Mentalist / Psychic  - Order of the Thought Police

Elemental / Forces - Fire Mages

Fate / Luck / Entropy - Gambler, Assassin

Time  - TVA Agent

Blood / Life  - Healer, Vampire

In some instances, the schools can combine

Alchemy / Entropy / Life - Order of the Viper's Kiss the Masters of Poison. 

Spells outside of Cantrips and Simple Rotes are time consuming at best

To Cast Complex Magic there are 5 Steps

1. Initiate the Spell - tap into the power

2. Construct - The words and other essential components must be presented (sacrifices)

3. Expand - Flesh out any 2nd & 3rd Effects the caster has in mind.

4. Incantation - actually speak the words without interruption.

5. Proclaim the Power - Point, Glare at, Wave at, and Signature Dramatic Pose at

As you can see this can take time.  Time can be worked out between Player & GM.  Shortcuts can be discussed and agreed upon.  The other player did not need their favorite magic toy anymore. 

Steps 1 & 2 Require Fuel

Personal Life Power - take damage that takes 2x longer to heal

Stored Magic - Everyday for a couple of years the mage has squeezed a blood tear into a sacred jar for the magic.

Squeezing / Ripping mana from rare items

Sacrifices - another whole herd of unicorns gone.

Tapping into a Ley Line / Vein of the Universe - On top of the Sacred Mountain as the comet streaks across the sky unlimited power can be had.

For those not happy with Vancian