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This is a class I worked on several years ago. Its a blessing actually that all of my work on it was lost and I was able to start from scratch, aside from a couple of ideas I remembered. Even since I began the write-up a few days ago, it has changed a great deal. For example, I began with bardic performance but removed it entirely. However, I might re-introduce some aspects of it in my Maestro Arcana.
So wwhat I have now is "What would happen if a magus was more like a bard?" Level 1 feels a little crowded, but I wanted to begin with the concept more or less intact, such as is the case with the alchemist, magus, and monk. I still need some high level abilities, and I only began Maestro Arcana yesterday. I was having trouble finding inspiration so some of the ideas are kind of -eh-, but I'm working on some better ones now.
The concept is that like a bard the songblade finds her magic in music (and by extension the frequencies and vibrations that comprise it), but has a more distinct focus on melee combat. She atunes herself to a specific weapon (a singing sword), with which she can cast spells and even create music. While she is a 6-level caster, her spell DCs with [sonic] spells will be as good as or better than those with 9-level casting. Ethereal sounds fill the air as she gestures with her sword and incants or sings the words of her spells. You'll recognize the general magus chassis, but I'm using the bard spell list for the time being. That may or may not change.
Link to SONGBLADE
I feel like it should be a magus archetype or alternate class, which would allow you to focus on making new mechanics. The class definitely feels like it needs a good, iconic mechanic to hold it all together. Right now, the best class feature is the songblade because it's basically a free magic weapon with an enhancement bonus that increases as he levels up.
It would be cool if the main class feature involved creating songs by swinging your blade, almost like in the Draglade video games. It could be something like a bard performance, except you maintain it by attacking with your song blade.
The arcanas kind of need work. There's two arcanas that increase damage with sonic spells. The one that gives you a +2 shield bonus is kind of worthless because you can just recall Shield (do bards get that spell?).
I suppose it kind of is an alternate class.
I'm not sure what to do to bring in an iconic mechanic to hold it all together. At level 1 it has spellcasting, spell combat, and a point pool. Same as the magus. Maybe you suggesting I scrap the magus chassis and start over?
I did not want for the enhancement bonus to be the best feature. The magus can gain that by spending points, so I wanted something like it but not the same. I will revisit it.
Its still incomplete, but I also envision my songblade creating music by attacking/moving sword. I have some language in place suggesting that, but only partially the mechanics. I will move to achieve it.
Yes, the arcanas have little going for them right now. You are kind to say that they "kind of" need work. This class is something I see vividly in my mind, but executing it has been difficult. I have already scrapped a bunch. :)
It's alright! I scrapped so much stuff with the artiforged, including two complete class descriptions. Oh goodness...
I tend to design my classes a bit differently. I usually focus on the game mechanics first and then flesh out the rest. Even when I have a theme in mind, I try to do that. When you have a unique game mechanic for the class, it helps tie everything else together and give the class its call to fame.
Cyrad,
Many of my classes are similar to what you describe, in intent anyways. I also feel that having a level 1 class defining feature that stays relevant throughout all levels is important. For example, class features like rage, sneak attack, bardic performance, and smite evil. They are used at every level, and conjure imagery to even a new player. This class is different because, although it feels strange to say/write, it's more personal. It has been floating around in my head for several years, without mechanics. I really need to step back and look at it differently. I haven't being very objective with this one. :)
Lazar,
I have not, because my intent is to write a class, not to play something that already exists.
A newer draft has been posted. In addition to an introduction and some artwork, I have continued to tweak the class features and add more Maestro Acana abilities. Once I get enough of them, I might start trashing some. I have added a subset of them called Maestro Arcana Songs, which are a nod towards Bardic Performance and all follow similar rules. I think they look a little powerful, but they all require concentration, so taking damage while performing could end the song.
As always, looking for criticism and input.