So the other day I saw a TikTok saying amongst other things, that Warlocks should use Spell Points instead of Pact Magic. Now naturally, because anything was said about Warlocks, I had to look into it, and guys? I’m kind of in love with this idea.
Now for those who don’t know, Spell Points are an alternate method of casting found in the DMG, basically replacing a fixed number of spell slots with what is essentially a mana pool. You have X number of points per long rest, and can spend a certain amount to cast a spell of a certain level, and each level of spell costs a different amount. It’s a much more hands on method of casting that requires a lot more resource management, but I think it’s very interesting.
Now why do I like this more than Pact Magic? By no means do I dislike Pact Magic; it necessitates more tactical use of spells, which I like, and I think that restriction breeds creativity. But I also think that it takes way too long for Warlocks to get a third spell slot, which, despite being a full caster, makes it really difficult to keep pace with other party members and honestly forces too much reliance on Eldritch Blast, which can make combat very stale.
Another issue I take with Pact Magic is how it makes certain spells obsolete. Good, useful spells like Hex, Shield, and Misty Step that, despite loving those spells, I find myself never using during higher level play, because, not only do I not want to use one of my 2 or 3 spell slots, I don’t want to have to use a 5th level slot on a 2nd level spell that doesn’t scale. I also find myself avoiding big, splashy, damaging spells like Fireball or Cone of Cold, that the game clearly wants you to use with your big 5th level slots, but they just don’t do enough to justify how much resource I’m putting into it, comparatively.
So why Spell Points? I just genuinely think that it’ll give Warlocks some much needed versatility in their spell casting. Despite how customizable the class is, I do think they, more often then not, end up being just the “I cast Eldritch Blast” class. Capping spell levels to 5th but allowing for spells to be cast at lower levels will keep utility spells viable without being a massive strain on resources. Keep the Mystic Arcanum as is, because I do think that’s a good way of handling higher level spells. Above all, I think having Warlocks use spell points helps keep them feeling unique so far as spell casters go, which is the point of Pact Magic anyway.
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