Post by dwayanu on Nov 23, 2007 15:40:29 GMT -6
Eventually, you're going to be among the most powerful figures in the world. Already, a duel between two Magic Users pretty much comes down to who "fires" first. "Charm Person" allows a save, but "Sleep" and (if available) "Magic Missile" do not.
With "Sleep," you can easily down half a dozen (or more) first- or second-level monsters -- and at least one of third or even of fourth level -- single handed. Let's see a Veteran do that!
I bring that up first because I've heard many a new Medium fret about being "weak."
It's not for nothing that the prime requisite for the class is Intelligence. Brain, not brawn, is the key to success.
Another meaning of "intelligence" is information about what you're getting into. Knowing in advance what you'll face is a big help in choosing the most appropriate spell -- and in deploying men at arms.
When you're in the initial phase of exploration, one of the aforementioned offensive spells is probably the best bet. Look for opportunities to get more information later with another spell.
Think of ways to use "Detect Magic," "Read Magic," "Read Languages" and "Charm Person."
Go back with a definite goal in mind, preferably one that eases the way to yet another goal.
Scrolls are obviously very desireable. If (as in Holmes Basic) you're able to make them for yourself, take advantage of it. Otherwise, invest the time and money to find scrolls for purchase. In the long run, it's probably preferable to go better equipped on fewer expeditions.
It's a poor Magic User who has no minions. You can of course hire ordinary retainers. "Charm Person" lets you acquire more exotic ones (and, depending on the DM, their upkeep may be negligible). In any case, commanding them gives you something to do in a fight besides risking your own neck.
Discretion is definitely the better part of valor for a novice in the magical arts. Unburdened by armor, you should be quite fleet of foot. Let minions haul equipment and all but the most precious treasure (such as gems, jewelry and scrolls).
You may have several levels of experience before you get a chance at a wand, ring or one of the miscellaneous magic items. Again, let semper paratus be your motto. You should not be counting on luck to bring such implements your way, but rather be actively pursuing information as to their locations, guardians, words of power, and so on.
Always remember this: Knowledge is power!
With "Sleep," you can easily down half a dozen (or more) first- or second-level monsters -- and at least one of third or even of fourth level -- single handed. Let's see a Veteran do that!
I bring that up first because I've heard many a new Medium fret about being "weak."
It's not for nothing that the prime requisite for the class is Intelligence. Brain, not brawn, is the key to success.
Another meaning of "intelligence" is information about what you're getting into. Knowing in advance what you'll face is a big help in choosing the most appropriate spell -- and in deploying men at arms.
When you're in the initial phase of exploration, one of the aforementioned offensive spells is probably the best bet. Look for opportunities to get more information later with another spell.
Think of ways to use "Detect Magic," "Read Magic," "Read Languages" and "Charm Person."
Go back with a definite goal in mind, preferably one that eases the way to yet another goal.
Scrolls are obviously very desireable. If (as in Holmes Basic) you're able to make them for yourself, take advantage of it. Otherwise, invest the time and money to find scrolls for purchase. In the long run, it's probably preferable to go better equipped on fewer expeditions.
It's a poor Magic User who has no minions. You can of course hire ordinary retainers. "Charm Person" lets you acquire more exotic ones (and, depending on the DM, their upkeep may be negligible). In any case, commanding them gives you something to do in a fight besides risking your own neck.
Discretion is definitely the better part of valor for a novice in the magical arts. Unburdened by armor, you should be quite fleet of foot. Let minions haul equipment and all but the most precious treasure (such as gems, jewelry and scrolls).
You may have several levels of experience before you get a chance at a wand, ring or one of the miscellaneous magic items. Again, let semper paratus be your motto. You should not be counting on luck to bring such implements your way, but rather be actively pursuing information as to their locations, guardians, words of power, and so on.
Always remember this: Knowledge is power!