Post/Author/DateTime	Post
#1 walalarga2 May 02, 2015 9:47:54	Hello everyone, I would like to engage in a thought experiment  and get your opinions from a player optimization perspective.  For the purposes of this experiment we will assume that the 4th level spell Polymorph is balanced as written.  The question is this: if you could choose only one spell, either Polymorph or a custom “Second Form” spell as detailed below, which would you choose and why?  Please approach this from the standpoint of a character with the goal of being the most mechanically optimized:   Second Form: 4th level Casting Time: 1 action Range: Self Duration: Concentration, up to 1 hour When you first acquire this spell choose a single creature of CR 6 or below.   When cast, this spell transforms you into the chosen creature as per the spell “Polymorph”.  While in this form you cannot cast spells of any kind by any means.    Here are a quick list of advantages/disadvantages to assist with the comparison:   Disadvantages relative to polymorph: Less versatility – can only be cast on self, cannot be twin cast by sorcerers, and can only change into a single creature permanently chosen at spell acquisition rather than choosing the best creature for the situation whenever it is cast. Lower CR – Polymorph can change you into any beast of your character level or below, effectively setting a limit of CR 8 or below as the highest beast currently is CR 8 (Tyrannosaurus Rex).  Second Form is limited to CR 6 or below.   Advantages relative to polymorph: Expanded creature selection – Polymorph is limited to Beasts, whereas the single creature chosen for Second Form has no creature type limitations.   One last thing: f you find that one spell or the other is the obvious option from a character optimization standpoint, what would you suggest changing to bring the two spells more in-line power wise?   Thanks again for your help on this, let me know if you have any questions about the function of either spell.
#2 cowleymen May 05, 2015 15:41:32	It depends on what you vavlue. As I always try to point out, what is "stronger" often depends on who uses it, in what kind of game, with what type of intention for building your fun. 5e is great to me becuase I feel like I no longer have to make a character that is mechaniclly super powerful, with the biggest numbers I can squeeze out of them making them able to accomplish things. Dont get me wrong, I had tons of fun with 4e. As a matter of fact, my most iconic character I have ever played comes from that edition, the kobold Deekin the Beacon!!!! A lazer-cleric of Bahamut that could glow, was super resistant to fire, could manipulate any flame, and could launch like 5 different fireballs from different sources. oodules of fun. But it took me several hours to build that guy and not accidently take too many trap options or end up being crippled. though not every option and choice can be coppied into 5e yet, I cant wait to play him again.