Ars Magica recently caught my eye, and I was wondering if anyone here had any experience with the system (specifically the current 5th edition).

Most importantly, what is a game session like?

How hard is it for new players to learn (compared to D&D/D20 for example)?

How much stuff would I have to buy? i.e. Will I want anything beyond the core rules?

I'm not sure if still is so White Wolf as used to be the old editions (I stoped at the 3...but I kind of remember having the 4 that was at the end a free pdf)...I kind of like the setting...and tried a few times...my only concern is I dislike Mages so...it's like a bit weird like a game that you have to play with a PC that you dislike... But overall I think is a good game if you are in the Magic/medieval/fantasy but not D&D...

I have played this game since before White Wolf was WW (Lion Rampant games), Ars Magica is a great system that is not rules-lite but the system flows.

To sum up Magic in the game is how it should be in most games and the ability to use the Covenant (Lab, Library and Appr.) adds so much flavor.

RPGNow had it listed but I have the feeling that it had been pulled due to the One Shelf Bookshop.

I haven't bought or read the lastest version (5th) but I do believe that it is closer to some of the earlier editions - which is great. The current version has a mass combat system built into it.

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Lord Abaddon of Wormwood

Found it!!! store has a copy of the free rules.


Check it out.



Lord Abaddon of Wormwood

I think it will work only as long campaign. I played two or three One-shots and it have the problem that all player would play their mighty wizards and no on a knight or even a lowly guard. Some of the players disliked Ars Magica beacuse they hate to play more then two characters in the same campaign.

I think a longer campaign would be really great and could be very roleplaing intensive.