Curious, I guess I could answer this myself by looking it up lol
in 3rd edition, in order to cast a spell as a Wizard, sorc, cleric, Ranger, any class that has a spell list , you had to have a +1 modifier to cast a lv 1 spell +2 modifier to cast a lv 2 spell so forth.
so will use a Int based wiz for example.
10-11 +0
12-13 +1
14-15 +2... So a wizard with 13 intel could not cast a lv 2 spell.
Does this no longer apply in 5th edition
Looking not seeing anything yet, however lets say for instance your barbarian with the 8 intel does not need a positive modifier to cast a spell, but a positive modifier lends to a greater DC (difficulty Check) He could still cast defensive and buff spells, could come in very handy SHIELD ,Mirror image, blur along with other.
I did get some info on the Dnd beyond forums.
"Not in 5e as long as you know/prepared the spell and have the appropriate spell slot level or higher you can cast the spell. Having a low spell casting modifier will make it harder to pass the attack roll and/or the enemies will pass the saving throw more likely."
So that answered my question, if you have the slot, you can cast the spell. DC still applies so if you are running around with an 8 intel ability score, buff's will be all your good at and that IMO could be fun. barbarian with blur and mirror image, you know for flavor. Not sure if it would be worth all you'll lose in DPS at lv 12, but the flavor may be good.
