Spellcasting

Spellcasting rules are simply a measure of how a spellcaster can cast safely.

SPELL SLOTS

If all spellcaster has used all their spell slots, they are still able to cast. However, the player must increase their level of exhaustion by a number equal to the level of spell.

• E.g. A level 6 druid (Lvl 3 spellcaster) may cast a 3rd level spell - even if all spell slots are taken. However, the spell will cost 3 levels of exhaustion.

CASTING BEYOND ABILITIES

If a spellcaster wants to cast beyond their abilities, they may. However, the player will have to cast additional disadvantage with each increased spell level. Total additional dice count will be equal to level of the attempted spell minus spellcasting ability level. Additionally, regardless if the spell is successful, the player will take 1d6 damage for every additional dice rolled to complete the spell, and will take 1 level of exhaustion.

• E.g. A level 2 cleric (Lvl 1 spellcaster) may attempt a level 3 spell, however since they only have access to level 1 spells, they must roll with double disadvantage (3 dice total).  They also take 2d6 damage and 1 level of exhaustion.

DUAL CASTING

If a spellcaster does not have any special feat or ability to dual cast, they may still attempt to dual cast. However, they must succeed on a DC 15 DEX saving throw prior to the action and take a level of exhaustion.

• E.g. An already cast spell requires concentration to maintain, but the player is under attack and wishes to fight back while maintaining their previous spell. They must succeed on the DC 15 DEX saving throw, then roll to cast. The player takes 1 level of exhaustion. 

COMPOUNDING RULES

Homebrew rules may be compounded.

• E.g. A level 3 Sorcerer (Lvl 2 spellcaster) is being attacked on all sides with no spell slots left. As a last ditch effort, they decide to dual cast fireball (Lvl 3 spell) from both hands. First, they must make a DC 15 DEX saving throw. They then must roll to cast both spells -- both with disadvantage. They then take 1d6 damage per spell, and 5 levels of exhaustion (1 per spell for each spell cast without remaining spell slots, 1 per spell for casting beyond their abilities, and 1 to dual cast).