How to use magic.

[falconslife]

I'm a DM and I've recently received a new player. He picked a magic class which I haven't played with for a while. When they cast a spell how do you know whether it hits or not? Is it governed the same as a any attack? D20 + attack bonus? or something else?

[Impatient Zero]

Need a lot more info before you can answer, such as what version of D&D you are playing and what class of spellcaster your friend is using. There are lots of ways to decide whether or not it hits, sometimes its a basic to hit roll, other times is a saving through. it all depends on the spell and its effects.

[Siberys]

Many spells have varying effects and varying ways to hit targets. Some with attack rolls, some with DC's, some with no save of any kind and if he doesn't understand these rules, playing a magic using class is SO much harder than any other class.

A good magic using class to get started learning the basics of how magic works in D&D without being overwhelmed by the innumerable possibilities, you might try Ranger or Bard. Otherwise I can pretty much guarantee he's going to have an unbelievably frustrating time dealing with the magic using class (this is assuming you're using 3.5 or 3rd too).

[falconslife]

Playing 3.5 and the class is a wizard. We're playing a 7th level campaign.

[Siberys]

Playing 3.5 and the class is a wizard. We're playing a 7th level campaign.

Again, we're going to need more, we'll need what spells you're confused on as well.

[falconslife]

I don't know, I'm not sure what to do with magic in general. I have no idea. I'll just throw a random spell out there. Lets say he uses magic missile.

[Siberys]

Magic Overview Index :: d20srd.org

[falconslife]

Magic Overview Index :: d20srd.org

Thanks a lot.