I know I should wait until Mr. Bulmahn opens up the section on classes, but for the game I am in I am going to need the answer sooner. (. . . for my gaming group.)
The Pathfinder Roleplaying Game Beta Playtest, page 49 says:
“At 1st Level, wizards forge a powerful bond with an object or creature. This bond can take one of two forms: The first is a familiar, following the standard rules for such creatures (see Familiars) and the second is a bond with an object, using it to cast spells and enchanting it with even greater powers.”
So, is the Arcane Bond ability of a 1st Level Wizard voluntary? The wording kind of implies that it is something a wizard must do.
The reason I ask, is that my wizard “Konrad” would like the option to wait to take the feat Improved Familiar (Pathfinder Beta p. 87)
I know I should wait until Mr. Bulmahn opens up the section on classes, but for the game I am in I am going to need the answer sooner. (. . . for my gaming group.)
The Pathfinder Roleplaying Game Beta Playtest, page 49 says:
“At 1st Level, wizards forge a powerful bond with an object or creature. This bond can take one of two forms: The first is a familiar, following the standard rules for such creatures (see Familiars) and the second is a bond with an object, using it to cast spells and enchanting it with even greater powers.”
So, is the Arcane Bond ability of a 1st Level Wizard voluntary? The wording kind of implies that it is something a wizard must do.
The reason I ask, is that my wizard “Konrad” would like the option to wait to take the feat Improved Familiar (Pathfinder Beta p. 87)
Any Smurffy thoughts on this?
If it's not voluntary, I think it should be. It doesn't make sense that having a familiar is a requirement to being a Wizard.
I'm pretty sure it is voluntary, but clearing that up in the final would be nice.
Logically it should be voluntary. But the wording implies otherwise.
Reversing the question: If the bond is not formed at (or before 1st level), can it be formed later? (If so, how?)
My interpretation: Choosing a type of arcane bond is mandatory at level 1, but actually summoning a familiar to service doesn't have to be done right away.
YMMV.
My interpretation: Choosing a type of arcane bond is mandatory at level 1, but actually summoning a familiar to service doesn't have to be done right away.
YMMV.
Because of the "Improved Familiar" feat? :)
Because of the "Improved Familiar" feat? :)My interpretation: Choosing a type of arcane bond is mandatory at level 1, but actually summoning a familiar to service doesn't have to be done right away.
YMMV.
Or because you just don't like animals.
But my point is that I wouldn't allow a 10th level wizard to suddenly say: "You know what I just discovered? I actually couldn't cast spells without my (arcane bond) wizard's staff all this time! Who'da thunk it?"
P.S. I generally allow an animal familiar to "evolve" into an Improved Familiar form (instead of dismissing it and attracting a brand new familiar).
P.S. I generally allow an animal familiar to "evolve" into an Improved Familiar form (instead of dismissing it and attracting a brand new familiar).
It is the dismissing it part that I am having a problem with.
If it is determined that I must form my familiar bond at 1st Level, I will likely never buy the feat. :(
Also to seek this in is the arcane bond magical. Logic suggests it but not stated. Could a wizard "Shatter" the bond and thus neuter the wizard till he has time to make/buy/rebond? I ask because I did that to a player and once done the logic of it boggled us and Pissed him off.
We have decided it is magical and house ruled it that way till we hear otherwise.
Your thoughts?
P.S. I generally allow an animal familiar to "evolve" into an Improved Familiar form (instead of dismissing it and attracting a brand new familiar).It is the dismissing it part that I am having a problem with.
If it is determined that I must form my familiar bond at 1st Level, I will likely never buy the feat. :(
What it means is that you have to choose the type of bond at first level (are you a critter guy or a stick guy).
Whether/when you choose to take advantage of it is up to you.
You could say you're a critter guy but not actually summon that familiar until you get the improved familiar feat.
My thought is generally a familiar or arcanely bonded object should be a "nice to have", not a "need to have". That would certainly be in keeping with previous editions. I'm not sure introducing a new handicap for the wizard class is justified.
CJ
well now that there are no drawbacks other than waiting a week after dismisal why wait till 7th level to get a familiar, have one and then wait the week and upgrade at 7th. I could understand your dislike when it took 2 off your con or you had to wait a year. but now what's the big deal?
Aside from RP reasons of course. Imagine the wizard talking to his old familiar:
Wiz: Well Crowy McCrowenstien, you've risked your life for me again and again. Spied out essential info, distracted enemies, been at my side through the most harrowing moments of my life. Yeah, good times... now screw off I'm trading up!
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All the basic familiars should have improved versions that don't require they shapechange into a different creature. Improved Toad, Improved Raven, that sort of thing. That way you don't need to trade up.
An item bond should only be mandatory insomuch that it's cultural and pretty much expected of a wizard of standing. I plan for them to be badges of learning and a bonus to Diplomacy checks in the right circles. "Rings for the Enchanters of Osirion! Staves for the Conjurers of Korvosa! Wands for the Witches of Taldor!". That sort of thing. Very hoity.