Alter Preceptions of Alter Self

The fine print of Alter Self can create conflict in your game, but with some specificity, it can be the best spell in your arsenal.
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There are some odd addendums in the spell description of Alter Self. The challenge of using this spell for both GMs and players is that the rules as written confines us from the places where our imaginations naturally go. What a pain. With some minor clarifications and gentle relaxing of the rules, we can find some middle ground that both sides of the table can love.
In the Kinship Camp, we'll look at some of the tricky language in the spell description and provide some more concrete clarifications that remove the source of conflict when using one of our favorite sorcerer, wizard, and artificer spells. Then of course, we go to some weird and wild places when imagining what could be done with this must-have 2nd level spell.
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[@tracyfield-folch4865]

Arcana check to create a DC when impersonating someone? Or Performance? I'd argue the latter, since Charisma/social skills would be in play. Actor should help.

[@HookandChance]

Certainly you're right Tracy when the convincing starts.. However I think we were coming at it from two angles. 1. we need a DC before the character has even opened their mouth, this is the act of recollecting a look. Shaping a nose with magic, not acting like a person.. Once they do start talking and interacting, sure performance. And 2. Arcana is likely going to be higher for anyone casting and we really really want them to succeed 😉

[@xiongray]

This was the kind of deep dive conversation of a Spell that doesn't get talked about too often. I was thinking of it with Alchemist Artificer and seeing which form an NPC would take. When paired with Sleep or Tasha's Hideous Laughter, you can then administer an Experimental Elixir to them while they're Incapacitated. You guys did a great job.

[@HookandChance]

Thanks so much! That's an interesting combo! What kind of character concept do you have cooking there?

[@xiongray]

@@HookandChance A whimsical shaman. The original idea was for Beast Master Ranger to gain a non-concentration Alter Self for that +1 to damage and attacks for unarmed strikes for their Ranger Companion.

[@iolair1973]

Thanks for this :) My sorcerer has just picked up Alter Self at level 4, and great to hear your analysis

[@HookandChance]

Oooooh let us know how you end up using it when you do! We hope it gets you free and clear of a real cluster.