How long does an Ice Storm last?
How long does an Ice Storm last?
After casting an ice storm spell, all within its area of affect take both cold and bludgeoning damage. However, after the initial damage, the spell seems to linger but causes no additional damage to those in the affected area and my wizard cannot dismiss the spell. Yet, when my PC’s enter the area they take “friendly fire” damage from the lingering spell. Is this how it’s supposed to work, or should those remaining within the spell’s area also take additional damage each round?
By the 3.5 rules, Ice Storm should last 1 round. It's different from a fireball or other instantaneous damage spells in that regard. While it is in effect, anyone entering the area will take damage which is what you are seeing in the game. It also slows movement of anyone trying to move thru it which partly explains the duration part of the spell.
However, unlike 3.5 rules, it seems that the version in ToEE lasts longer than 1 round. It seems to be closer to 2 or 3 rounds. Whether that is good or bad is debateable. It does mean that your melee characters will have to wait or suffer the effects of entering it. On the other hand, it also means that it will work to slow opponents or damage new foes entering the area for that much longer.
However, unlike 3.5 rules, it seems that the version in ToEE lasts longer than 1 round. It seems to be closer to 2 or 3 rounds. Whether that is good or bad is debateable. It does mean that your melee characters will have to wait or suffer the effects of entering it. On the other hand, it also means that it will work to slow opponents or damage new foes entering the area for that much longer.