Overcasting Spells

The Idea

A magic user trains their magic channels in order to be able to cast higher level magics without straining their physical bodies as a result. By this logic, a caster is able to--at great risk to themselves--attempt to cast magic beyond the limits that they have trained themselves to comfortably sustain.

When is the Overcasting Rule Used?

At first glance, the conditions that lead to overcasting seem pretty straight forward. However, there are more subtle conditions that can trigger overcasting. Below are a list of conditions that can bring the Overcasting Rules into play (at DM's discretion):

Whenever the Overcasting rule is triggered by one or more of the above conditions, the caster (and any characters contributing to the overcasting) must accumulate enough Casting Points (CP) to successfully cast the spell or suffer varying degrees of consequences. The amount of Casting Points required to successfully complete the overcasting and how to accumulate said points are listed in the following sections.

The Cost

Repercussions of Overcasting

Mechanics

Thematics (Optional)

Using magic repeatedly is something that is gradually exhausting the spellcaster, just as a martial combatant would tire over time from repeated physical exertion. Casting magic uses a physical aspect that most mortals possess, called the Channels of Magic. When running out of spell slots, a spellcaster can experience symptoms such as weak muscles, slightly blurred vision, nausea, etc.

These symptoms will not mechanically impede the character (unless the player opts for it). They are meant to add a sense of tension and drama for magic users to play up the severity of their lack of resources. It also makes the repercussion of potentially falling unconscious from overcasting feel more natural.

Overcast Cost Table