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Why does casting require a(n) orb/staff/wand?



Asked: 2000.11.10
Name: Gillies
Question Title: Why does casting require a(n) orb/staff/wand?
Category: Magic
Question: I remember reading something on Musashi's site (though I could be wrong) that casting was done without wands.

I'd much rather (I'm probably alone) casting be done with words and motions alone, and perhaps you could use a wand/staff/orb in melee. A wand could use the mace skill, staff - staff, and maybe orbs could be thrown - maybe have enchantments banish a foe or turn it to stone (kinda D&D; like).


Answered: 2000.11.13
Name: Stormwaltz
Answer: Casting was done without foci back in early beta. Based on responses to that beta interface, the spellcasting UI was completely redesigned and wrapped into the combat UI.

Now, in order for the client and server to know that you should go into casting mode when you smack the dove, you must have a specially flagged focus object wielded. If you wield a melee weapon, you'll be placed in combat mode. If you wield a bow or thrown wep, you're placed in ranged combat mode. If you wield a magic focus, you're placed in casting mode.

Since the UI improvements, casting without focus is no longer possible.