Former Writing Cartel Discord Server moderator, Devin Pigman, joins hosts to discuss magic systems in fantasy. They share favorite systems, creating their own, and best practices. Cathy suggests a second axis for magic system discussions. The episode explores the intricacies of magic in storytelling and role-playing games, emphasizing unique creation and alignment with narrative context.
Different magic systems in fiction explore power dynamics and surprising twists.
Magic rooted in theology examines mortals connecting with gods for power and consequences.
Distinguishing between alternate physics and magic aids in worldbuilding rules and dynamics.
Alt Earth settings offer fresh perspectives by exploring familiar landscapes in unique timelines.
Deep dives
Diverse Magic Systems Explored in Fiction
Various works of fiction such as The Witcher series and the Mistborn trilogy showcase distinct and creative magic systems. The Witcher series delves into the class disparity between different magical abilities, highlighting the intricate power dynamics, while the Mistborn trilogy introduces a unique system of ingesting and burning metals to gain short-term abilities, incorporating surprising twists that challenge the readers' expectations.
Theological Basis for Magic in Five Worlds Series
Lois McMaster Bujold's Five Worlds series presents a magic system rooted in theology and applied theology, where individuals can connect with gods as conduits for power. The magic system explores the relationship between mortals and gods, emphasizing the cost and consequences of channeling divine powers. The series navigates through different beliefs and interpretations, showcasing a diverse spectrum of faith and power dynamics within a theological framework.
Alternate Physics vs. Magic - Defining Magic in Worldbuilding
In worldbuilding, distinguishing between alternate physics and magic provides a framework to categorize supernatural elements. Alternate physics introduces novel energy sources and phenomena that deviate from known laws of nature, while magic involves accessing power from specific sources or methods unique to certain individuals. By differentiating between the two, worldbuilders can establish the rules and dynamics that govern their magical systems.
Creation of Alt Earth Settings in Fiction
Alt Earth settings in fiction present a narrative space that mirrors our world's physical laws but diverges in historical, cultural, and geographical contexts. These alternative Earth scenarios redefine reality and explore distinct timelines, offering a fresh perspective on familiar landscapes and societies outside of our historical trajectory, demonstrating the creative potential of altering familiar environments.
Understanding Magic Systems in Creative Works
An essential aspect of crafting compelling magic systems is ensuring clarity and comprehension for the audience. Balancing complexity with familiarity allows readers or players to engage with the magical elements without feeling overwhelmed. Introducing a gradual learning curve, like in Avatar: The Last Airbender's bending system, where characters explore and understand new abilities organically, can enhance the audience's immersion and understanding.
Magic Systems Variability in Worldbuilding
The discussion delves into the concept of magic systems and their impact on worldbuilding. It explores the idea of diversified magic systems in creating a sense of wonder and mystery in a narrative. This approach involves differentiating between unified and disjointed magic systems where various localized systems exist independently. The varying access and rules within these systems add depth and intrigue to the world, offering unique storytelling possibilities.
Cultural Impacts of Magic Systems
The podcast touches on how magic systems are intertwined with the cultural fabric of fictional worlds. It raises questions about the societal perception of magic, ranging from its acceptance to suppression and persecution. Additionally, the discussion emphasizes the influence of magic on technology, manufacturing, and daily life. By considering the cultural implications of magic, creators can enrich their worldbuilding by exploring how different societies interact with and perceive magical abilities.
Adam, Cathy, Ianara (Imachinate), and our guest Devin Pigman—a former moderator with our friends at the Writing Cartel Discord Server—talk about magic systems. We discuss a few of our favorite systems, things we've learned from creating our own, as well as some best practices for creating your own kinds of magic! Plus, along with the hard and soft magic scale, Cathy hypothesizes a second axis that we might want to begin considering when discussing magic systems...
This episode was edited by J.D. Venner.
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