Domain and Magic School spell-like abilities

[Melissa Litwin]

I noticed that for the spell-like abilities for both domains and magic schools, the save DCs are charisma-based. This strikes me as problematic, considering that only wizards can specialize and they are int-based casters. For domains, both druids and clerics are wisdom-based casters.

It doesn't seem fair to require spellcasters to have a second mental stat in order to have decent DCs on their spell-like abilities. I realize charisma is the default stat to add to DCs of spell-like abilities, but it is definitely not the only choice. In the MM1, there are several abilities based off Con and even other mental stats.

IGNORE THIS PARAGRAPH, IT IS WRONG <Additionally, it isn't even possible to cast spell-likes without the stat necessary to back them up. For example, a gnome can only cast her abilities with an 11 charisma. That means in order for a wizard to cast a wish, they'd need a 19 charisma. That's a huge stat and/or money investment that I do not think was intended.>

[Shisumo]

Melissa Litwin wrote:

Additionally, it isn't even possible to cast spell-likes without the stat necessary to back them up. For example, a gnome can only cast her abilities with an 11 charisma. That means in order for a wizard to cast a wish, they'd need a 19 charisma. That's a huge stat and/or money investment that I do not think was intended.

This is not part of the general rules of SLAs in the SRD. The gnome's restriction is specifically for them, and should not be considered a general rule. (For a counterexample, take a look at the tiefling.)

As for casters needing a second stat... well, tell that to monks and paladins. Anything that puts some downward pressure on the top-tier casters, without making them significantly less useful, is all right with me.

[lynora]

Clerics at least already needed Cha to effect their ability to turn undead.
It's pretty much just the wizard that gets punished here.

[Melissa Litwin]

lynora wrote:

Clerics at least already needed Cha to effect their ability to turn undead.

It's pretty much just the wizard that gets punished here.

And druids, now that they can access domains as well as clerics.

As for making spellcasters need more stats- tell that to the fighter or the barbarian, who need only strength and con with a little dex. Yes, paladins and monks need tons of stats, but spellcasters need more stats than fighters. They need casting stat, maybe int for skills if not wizards, dex, and con. Rogues need int, dex, con, and maybe str. Bards need cha, int, con, maybe dex for AC or if they plan on shooting anything. My point is that you picked the most stat-difficult classes to compare casters to, when the reality is that spellcasters have to focus about as much as anyone else on stats. No more and no less.

You are right about the ability to cast, though. Still need a good stat for a decent DC, to make anything worthwhile.