How to Create New Powers in D&D

Creating Powers in D&D: 4th Edition

• 1

  Decide on the type of Power you want to create: Daily, Encounter, or At-Will. At-WIll Powers represent traits of the character who owns them, but are generally comparable in strength to a basic attack. Encounter Powers are powerful attacks or enchantments that can be devastating if successful, though their success rates should be comparable to At-Will Powers and basic attacks. Daily Powers are the most powerful in the game, and often have an effect (such as half-damage or a small bonus) even if unsuccessful.

• 2

  Decide on the nature of the Power you want to create: Is it an attack, or a defensive/healing action? Refer to the Player's Handbook, and use the same damage and target modifiers as those of corresponding Powers of the same level.

• 3

  Choose any additional type modifiers for the Power. For example, if it is a Power that uses light or divine magic, make the Power "Divine" or "Radiant" to affect certain targets with additional bonuses.

• 4

  Determine the nature of the Power. Does the Power target an enemy's mind? If so, it should be a Will-based attack. If it targets an enemy's body, it should be a Fortitude- or Armor Class--based attack.

• 5

  Name the Power, and create flavor text to describe what happens in the game when the Power is used.