How does one get started in psionics? [Archive] - Wizards Community

How does one get started in psionics? [Archive] - Wizards Community

Post/Author/DateTime Post
boozerker
03-21-07, 02:51 AM Besides the obvious, getting the Psionics Hanbook ;)

Maybe answering what is psionics is a good start. For instance, if watching a psionic character in action, what would tip me off that I'm in fact witnessing psionics?

Here's my guess of which fictional elements display some psionics: Carrie, Hiro Nakamura (Heroes, TV series), use of the Force (in Star Wars), the Matrix (but only within the Matrix itself), Professor Xavier, anything where characters move objects with their eyes or a wave of the hand.

It's a lack of understanding that's kept me from exploring it so far, and likely my friends who probably just think mind reading and telekinesis is all psionics is.
Dead_Weasel
03-21-07, 03:02 AM Psionics, summarized into a single sentence:
It's magic, but not.
Yes, that is a gross oversimplification.
Psionics is a lot more flexible than magic; because it uses power points, which are "smaller" than spell slots, you have a great deal more flexibility with regards to what a power will do, how long it will last.
Psionics is by no means limited to mind reading and telekinesis, though; psionics can do most of the things magic does, and a few that it cannot.
Honestly, I would recommend diving into psionics, if you really are curious.
If you're smart, you'll use the SRD (http://www.d20srd.org/) to find out whether or not you like it before you drop cash on the book - which, in my (not-very-)humble opinion, is worth the investment.
Tempest Stormwind
03-21-07, 03:11 AM Besides the obvious, getting the Psionics Hanbook ;) Avoid the Psionics Handbook. It's the EXPANDED psionics handbook you want. :)Maybe answering what is psionics is a good start. For instance, if watching a psionic character in action, what would tip me off that I'm in fact witnessing psionics? You get magical or supernatural effects seemingly from nowhere, occasionally accompanied by telltale effects (like light, ghostly echoes, an odd soundless chime, or the like). Many of these effects are either invisible or personal-range.

I frequently cite Witch Hunter Robin as one of the best examples of how people would depict psionics. Telepathic attacks, pyrokinesis, telekinesis, empathic healing and necrosis, levitation, mindreading, minor clairvoyance (one guy almost NEVER misses a shot for this very reason, although the show itself doesn't make it clear that's why), personality schisms, animation of others, rapid regeneration... all of those show up there, and the show's essentially about how a modern-day society would cope with that. (The name comes from all of those wild talents being linked historically to witchcraft; it's a suprisingly good show.)Here's my guess of which fictional elements display some psionics: Carrie, Hiro Nakamura (Heroes, TV series), use of the Force (in Star Wars), the Matrix (but only within the Matrix itself), Professor Xavier, anything where characters move objects with their eyes or a wave of the hand. Of those, only Carrie, the Force-users, Professor X, and Jean Gray are close to iconics of psionics.

However, Psylocke is also psionic (soulknife), as is Gambit (kineticist).It's a lack of understanding that's kept me from exploring it so far, and likely my friends who probably just think mind reading and telekinesis is all psionics is.Mind reading and telekinesis are things they're good at. But ask your friends: Is magic just pulling rabbits out of hats, throwing fireballs, flying, and turning people into toads? Reductionist statements like that are about as derogatory to either side.

For more info, check the FAQ at the top of the forum; the first little bit is of particular interest to you. Then go and page through the XPH, fluff and all, and see if it's up your alley. It probably should be.
boozerker
03-21-07, 03:22 AM But ask your friends: Is magic just pulling rabbits out of hats, throwing fireballs, flying, and turning people into toads? Reductionist statements like that are about as derogatory to either side.
They didn't actually say that (or anything close) I'm just guessing, and probably should rephrase as

[QUOTE]It's a lack of understanding that's kept me from exploring it so far, and likely my friends who possibly just think mind reading and telekinesis is all psionics is.
(They probably know more than I do, but no one that I asked has shown interest)

For more info, check the FAQ at the top of the forum; the first little bit is of particular interest to you. Then go and page through the XPH, fluff and all, and see if it's up your alley. It probably should be.
Thank you.
Doomed_Penguin
03-21-07, 04:47 PM D&D psionics are VERY much like the Force in Star Wars from a roleplay point of veiw, though they generally fufill the same role as arcane magic would in a party. It can do most of the same things as arcane magic, give or take a few options.
SlanderPanic
03-21-07, 04:56 PM The current psionics system likely draws lots of inspiration from comics, X-Men in particular. When I first read energy conversion (http://www.d20srd.org/srd/psionic/powers/energyConversion.htm), my first thought was to call it "the Bishop (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bishop_(comics)) effect." Several shaper powers duplicate Krystalin's (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Krystalin) powers. Those are just off the top of my head.
Tralan
03-21-07, 05:08 PM Hiro Nakamura is a prime example of a Nomad. They usually have mastery over tme and space.

The best part about psionics (IMO) is the flavor. To be quite honest with you, I'm almost sick of generic, Tolkien based fantasy. I get sick of the wisened wizard, or the noble paladin. I really hate parties that fit into certain roles "I'm the blaster," "I'm the tank" etc etc. Psionics, while still conforming to the "Perfect Party" format, offers way more options to break the mould. I may be a "blaster," but I resort to that when I can no longer enter your mind and bend you to my will. Oh, and for the record: Clairsentience is like the divination school of magic, except it's actually usefull and doesn't suck goat nutz.
jbsaff
03-21-07, 06:16 PM From my understanding, the mechanics of Psionics are a better match to several author's descriptions of magic than the D&D Magic mechanics. Off the top of my head, both Tolkien and Rawn described magic systems that, for the most part, worked without spell components and allowed the caster to go "nova" in exchange for reduced effectiveness until they recovered. Sometimes, using so much power actually drains the character, making them weaker like the Overchannel or Wild Surge abilities.

That is a large part of the draw for me. I feel that I could just use the Psionics system and flavor it so that I appeared to be a good old arcanist (assuming the Transparency rules apply), while gaining the flexibility to use my powers as I see fit and to the degree that I require. Psionics gives me many options and balanced limitations.

As to how you would know that you are in fact in the presence of a Psionic character, remember that while powers have various displays, they do not have vocal or somatic components. Thus, if you see someone throwing around "magical" power without using vocal or somatic components, they may be Psionic (or they have the Still Spell and Silent Spell feats ;)). On the other hand, someone who smells funny or who's eyes start to glow when he casts may be using Psionics, even if he appears to be using vocal and/or somatic components like a sorceror or wizard. Just a couple ideas, hope it helps.
AntiDjinn
03-21-07, 06:53 PM The comic character who appears to be the inspiration for the shaper is Green Lantern. If you look at the 3.0 power Ecto Puppet you can see clear GL influence. In the DCU RPG the power was called force manipulation: Pick a force (or substance) and you can shape working objects out of it. GL uses emerald energy instead of astral matter, but he is basically more of a shaper than a kineticist; he rarely uses his ring as a direct laser or force blast. Instead, he shapes the field into giant hands, images of beings, objects, and weapons, and uses these constructs for battle. Furthering the analogy, the power of a lantern's power constructs is limited by his willpower (shaper level) while their form is dictated by his imagination and creativity (Int and craft skill). This is why Hal Jordan is a powerful lantern (lots of experience, strong Will) but the upstart Kyle Rayner actually shows more innovative forms (he is a graphic artist).
AntiDjinn
03-21-07, 06:58 PM Besides the obvious, getting the Psionics Hanbook ;)

If you even set the Psionics Handbook on the gameing table then the very essence of roleplaying will be snuffed in your group. Get the 3.5 Expanded Psionics Handbook or don't bother including psionics in your game. Remember: those whom the gods would destroy they first force to use the 3.0 psionic combat system.
The Ubbergeek
03-31-07, 03:52 PM The current psionics system likely draws lots of inspiration from comics, X-Men in particular. When I first read energy conversion (http://www.d20srd.org/srd/psionic/powers/energyConversion.htm), my first thought was to call it "the Bishop (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bishop_(comics)) effect." Several shaper powers duplicate Krystalin's (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Krystalin) powers. Those are just off the top of my head.

I think Akira is a good inspiration for the more Scaner-like psychic mages. Reading about Hinduism and Buddhism could offers inspiration.
AntiDjinn
03-31-07, 08:16 PM Psionics 3.X draws heavily from Eastern mysticism. Dorjes are the "thunderbolt rods" held by Tibetan and Indian statues of gods and enlightened beings. The whole "third eye" thing is also adapted from a variety of Eastern religions. In fact, the methodology of the manifester is much closer to the divine caster than it is to the arcane; It is all about belief, dedication, and focus of intent, rather than memorized gibberish, finger wiggling, and bat poop. Psionics can be thought of as the religion of the inner self (and there are real world religions that are just that); not all faith or belief involves worship or subservience.

I figure in a party, the psion or ardent will find he has more interesting and enlightening conversations with the cleric or monk than with the wizard.

Post/Author/DateTime	Post
boozerker 03-21-07, 02:51 AM	Besides the obvious, getting the Psionics Hanbook ;) Maybe answering what is psionics is a good start. For instance, if watching a psionic character in action, what would tip me off that I'm in fact witnessing psionics? Here's my guess of which fictional elements display some psionics: Carrie, Hiro Nakamura (Heroes, TV series), use of the Force (in Star Wars), the Matrix (but only within the Matrix itself), Professor Xavier, anything where characters move objects with their eyes or a wave of the hand. It's a lack of understanding that's kept me from exploring it so far, and likely my friends who probably just think mind reading and telekinesis is all psionics is.
Dead_Weasel 03-21-07, 03:02 AM	Psionics, summarized into a single sentence: It's magic, but not. Yes, that is a gross oversimplification. Psionics is a lot more flexible than magic; because it uses power points, which are "smaller" than spell slots, you have a great deal more flexibility with regards to what a power will do, how long it will last. Psionics is by no means limited to mind reading and telekinesis, though; psionics can do most of the things magic does, and a few that it cannot. Honestly, I would recommend diving into psionics, if you really are curious. If you're smart, you'll use the SRD (http://www.d20srd.org/) to find out whether or not you like it before you drop cash on the book - which, in my (not-very-)humble opinion, is worth the investment.
Tempest Stormwind 03-21-07, 03:11 AM	Besides the obvious, getting the Psionics Hanbook ;) Avoid the Psionics Handbook. It's the EXPANDED psionics handbook you want. :)Maybe answering what is psionics is a good start. For instance, if watching a psionic character in action, what would tip me off that I'm in fact witnessing psionics? You get magical or supernatural effects seemingly from nowhere, occasionally accompanied by telltale effects (like light, ghostly echoes, an odd soundless chime, or the like). Many of these effects are either invisible or personal-range. I frequently cite Witch Hunter Robin as one of the best examples of how people would depict psionics. Telepathic attacks, pyrokinesis, telekinesis, empathic healing and necrosis, levitation, mindreading, minor clairvoyance (one guy almost NEVER misses a shot for this very reason, although the show itself doesn't make it clear that's why), personality schisms, animation of others, rapid regeneration... all of those show up there, and the show's essentially about how a modern-day society would cope with that. (The name comes from all of those wild talents being linked historically to witchcraft; it's a suprisingly good show.)Here's my guess of which fictional elements display some psionics: Carrie, Hiro Nakamura (Heroes, TV series), use of the Force (in Star Wars), the Matrix (but only within the Matrix itself), Professor Xavier, anything where characters move objects with their eyes or a wave of the hand. Of those, only Carrie, the Force-users, Professor X, and Jean Gray are close to iconics of psionics. However, Psylocke is also psionic (soulknife), as is Gambit (kineticist).It's a lack of understanding that's kept me from exploring it so far, and likely my friends who probably just think mind reading and telekinesis is all psionics is.Mind reading and telekinesis are things they're good at. But ask your friends: Is magic just pulling rabbits out of hats, throwing fireballs, flying, and turning people into toads? Reductionist statements like that are about as derogatory to either side. For more info, check the FAQ at the top of the forum; the first little bit is of particular interest to you. Then go and page through the XPH, fluff and all, and see if it's up your alley. It probably should be.
boozerker 03-21-07, 03:22 AM	But ask your friends: Is magic just pulling rabbits out of hats, throwing fireballs, flying, and turning people into toads? Reductionist statements like that are about as derogatory to either side. They didn't actually say that (or anything close) I'm just guessing, and probably should rephrase as [QUOTE]It's a lack of understanding that's kept me from exploring it so far, and likely my friends who possibly just think mind reading and telekinesis is all psionics is. (They probably know more than I do, but no one that I asked has shown interest) For more info, check the FAQ at the top of the forum; the first little bit is of particular interest to you. Then go and page through the XPH, fluff and all, and see if it's up your alley. It probably should be. Thank you.
Doomed_Penguin 03-21-07, 04:47 PM	D&D psionics are VERY much like the Force in Star Wars from a roleplay point of veiw, though they generally fufill the same role as arcane magic would in a party. It can do most of the same things as arcane magic, give or take a few options.
SlanderPanic 03-21-07, 04:56 PM	The current psionics system likely draws lots of inspiration from comics, X-Men in particular. When I first read energy conversion (http://www.d20srd.org/srd/psionic/powers/energyConversion.htm), my first thought was to call it "the Bishop (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bishop_(comics)) effect." Several shaper powers duplicate Krystalin's (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Krystalin) powers. Those are just off the top of my head.
Tralan 03-21-07, 05:08 PM	Hiro Nakamura is a prime example of a Nomad. They usually have mastery over tme and space. The best part about psionics (IMO) is the flavor. To be quite honest with you, I'm almost sick of generic, Tolkien based fantasy. I get sick of the wisened wizard, or the noble paladin. I really hate parties that fit into certain roles "I'm the blaster," "I'm the tank" etc etc. Psionics, while still conforming to the "Perfect Party" format, offers way more options to break the mould. I may be a "blaster," but I resort to that when I can no longer enter your mind and bend you to my will. Oh, and for the record: Clairsentience is like the divination school of magic, except it's actually usefull and doesn't suck goat nutz.
jbsaff 03-21-07, 06:16 PM	From my understanding, the mechanics of Psionics are a better match to several author's descriptions of magic than the D&D Magic mechanics. Off the top of my head, both Tolkien and Rawn described magic systems that, for the most part, worked without spell components and allowed the caster to go "nova" in exchange for reduced effectiveness until they recovered. Sometimes, using so much power actually drains the character, making them weaker like the Overchannel or Wild Surge abilities. That is a large part of the draw for me. I feel that I could just use the Psionics system and flavor it so that I appeared to be a good old arcanist (assuming the Transparency rules apply), while gaining the flexibility to use my powers as I see fit and to the degree that I require. Psionics gives me many options and balanced limitations. As to how you would know that you are in fact in the presence of a Psionic character, remember that while powers have various displays, they do not have vocal or somatic components. Thus, if you see someone throwing around "magical" power without using vocal or somatic components, they may be Psionic (or they have the Still Spell and Silent Spell feats ;)). On the other hand, someone who smells funny or who's eyes start to glow when he casts may be using Psionics, even if he appears to be using vocal and/or somatic components like a sorceror or wizard. Just a couple ideas, hope it helps.
AntiDjinn 03-21-07, 06:53 PM	The comic character who appears to be the inspiration for the shaper is Green Lantern. If you look at the 3.0 power Ecto Puppet you can see clear GL influence. In the DCU RPG the power was called force manipulation: Pick a force (or substance) and you can shape working objects out of it. GL uses emerald energy instead of astral matter, but he is basically more of a shaper than a kineticist; he rarely uses his ring as a direct laser or force blast. Instead, he shapes the field into giant hands, images of beings, objects, and weapons, and uses these constructs for battle. Furthering the analogy, the power of a lantern's power constructs is limited by his willpower (shaper level) while their form is dictated by his imagination and creativity (Int and craft skill). This is why Hal Jordan is a powerful lantern (lots of experience, strong Will) but the upstart Kyle Rayner actually shows more innovative forms (he is a graphic artist).
AntiDjinn 03-21-07, 06:58 PM	Besides the obvious, getting the Psionics Hanbook ;) If you even set the Psionics Handbook on the gameing table then the very essence of roleplaying will be snuffed in your group. Get the 3.5 Expanded Psionics Handbook or don't bother including psionics in your game. Remember: those whom the gods would destroy they first force to use the 3.0 psionic combat system.
The Ubbergeek 03-31-07, 03:52 PM	The current psionics system likely draws lots of inspiration from comics, X-Men in particular. When I first read energy conversion (http://www.d20srd.org/srd/psionic/powers/energyConversion.htm), my first thought was to call it "the Bishop (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bishop_(comics)) effect." Several shaper powers duplicate Krystalin's (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Krystalin) powers. Those are just off the top of my head. I think Akira is a good inspiration for the more Scaner-like psychic mages. Reading about Hinduism and Buddhism could offers inspiration.
AntiDjinn 03-31-07, 08:16 PM	Psionics 3.X draws heavily from Eastern mysticism. Dorjes are the "thunderbolt rods" held by Tibetan and Indian statues of gods and enlightened beings. The whole "third eye" thing is also adapted from a variety of Eastern religions. In fact, the methodology of the manifester is much closer to the divine caster than it is to the arcane; It is all about belief, dedication, and focus of intent, rather than memorized gibberish, finger wiggling, and bat poop. Psionics can be thought of as the religion of the inner self (and there are real world religions that are just that); not all faith or belief involves worship or subservience. I figure in a party, the psion or ardent will find he has more interesting and enlightening conversations with the cleric or monk than with the wizard.