I think it takes a couple of things to make a good magic system
random thoughts Send a noteboard - 02/11/2009 09:25:42 PM
First, it needs to interesting. I think there should be some level of cool to a good magic system.
Second it needs be consistent and understandable. It can't be like Star Trek where any problem can be solved by the before unmentioned magical power.
Third, it needs to have interesting consequence for the characters. Look at WOT, the magic system and the consequences of that system is one of the things that make this such an interesting a compelling story.
I don't think a good fantasy story has to have a good magical system, LOTR almost has none at all, but if it does have on it needs to be a good one.
Second it needs be consistent and understandable. It can't be like Star Trek where any problem can be solved by the before unmentioned magical power.
Third, it needs to have interesting consequence for the characters. Look at WOT, the magic system and the consequences of that system is one of the things that make this such an interesting a compelling story.
I don't think a good fantasy story has to have a good magical system, LOTR almost has none at all, but if it does have on it needs to be a good one.
What is the purpose of a "good" magic system in fantasy?
- 02/11/2009 05:15:29 PM
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A "good" system can enhance the otherness of the world or characters.
- 02/11/2009 08:34:02 PM
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Warbreaker felt like it had a lot of untapped potential
- 03/11/2009 05:55:23 AM
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A part of that is planned, and another part is due to a growing author.
- 03/11/2009 03:11:58 PM
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I think it takes a couple of things to make a good magic system
- 02/11/2009 09:25:42 PM
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Concequence is certainly interesting.
- 03/11/2009 04:02:58 PM
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Indeed.
- 03/11/2009 04:16:41 PM
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Have you described this here or at Wotmania before?
- 04/11/2009 09:25:01 AM
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I wrote a little about it at wotmania when Danu was having her last big writing contest.
- 04/11/2009 02:34:51 PM
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I really don't care as long as it is not horribly inconsistent.
- 03/11/2009 07:47:48 AM
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The problem with heroes is they are just making it up as the go along
- 03/11/2009 06:49:25 PM
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That is not without a whole lot of precident in comics. *NM*
- 03/11/2009 08:04:48 PM
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It doesn't really make a for an internally consisnt magic system OR plot, though. 
*NM*
- 03/11/2009 08:14:59 PM
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*NM*
- 03/11/2009 08:14:59 PM
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