In older editions of D&D (thinking primarily of 2E and 3E), psionic abilities - like those of Gith and Illithids - had radically different mechanics from standard magic. For example, creatures had psionic points that they expended to use abilities, and standard protections against magic were largely useless against psionic creatures and users (the spell Mind Blank was an interesting exception.) But I've noticed in BG3 that psionic abilities are represented with standard spells (e.g., substituting Mage Hand for Telekinesis.)
Since I don't have easy access to a 5e rulebook, I had a couple of questions. Is this trend in BG3 the standard implementation of psionics in 5E? If so, is there any substantial difference between 'psionics' and magic?
Some will say it should have always been this way; myself, I always enjoyed the different feel and focus of older psionic systems. For those who don't know, D&D's standard magic system is derived in large part from an old novel called "Dying Earth" by Jack Vance. A limited number of spells (and the energy contained therein) can be memorized and held by the caster, and different tiers of power (i.e., spell level) existed. The sorcerer class changed this formula a bit, but it's still based on spell levels. I've always preferred point based systems due to the increased flexibility and somewhat stronger resemblance to the magic of myth, folklore and (most) fantasy fiction.
So is this standard for 5E, or Larian's own interpretation of psionics or mental powers?
Last edited by Jhelzei; 25/04/23 12:55 AM.
