Spellcasting 101: Rituals & Incantations

As discussed in a previous article about Cantrips, there are many ways in which spell can be cast.
Cantrips are just at the threshold of were true magic takes over. Professional spellcasters such as Wizards and Clerics move onto the next level in which they practice the art of magic as it is known commonly. Through their study, practice, and/or devotion they are able to perform a variety of mystical feats.

However, that is not the only way. Rituals and Incarnations are a form of older magic that forms the base of modern magic. This path of magic allows the trained and untrained to perform mystical feats without expending their own personal energy, though other means of cost may be applied. Unlike regular spells, these version take longer to cast and their is a percentage of spell failure. It is even cautioned, that these spell also may backfire upon the casters. However these versions of spells come in handy when standard spells are low, or you are without the aid of a spellcaster.

Incantations were first mentioned in 3E D&D in Unearthed Arcana, pg 174. The rules regarding Incantations are presented here. As mentioned Incantations can be cast by anyone and require a roll(s) to determine the chance of success. Incantations can vary from creator to creator; as difficulty checks, backlash, failure penalties differ. So one Incantation can have multiple versions. Incantations are best used when desperate measures are needed and there are no spellcasters around. Incantations are more common on world were there is little to know magic. However, a standard spellcaster with Knowledge (Arcana) should be aware of Incantations.

The second type options are rituals. This is a variation on incantations, but instead of freestyle casting, these are closely aligned with preexisting spells. Rituals are an option which appeared in 4E D&D Player's Handbook, which standardize Incantations. For the most part Spellcaster automatically gain access to rituals. They can learn and perform rituals alongside their normal spellcasting. Furthermore, anyone who takes time to learn (Feat) this method can perform rituals. Rituals take longer to cast than spell, may incur backlash, and likewise have a chance of failure. Rituals for the most part are non-combative spells, which greatly free up a spellcaster decision on what spell are necessary to memorize. In addition the spell components have been simplified as well. Alchemical items, mystic salves, rare herbs, sanctified incense, and residuum can be used.
Residuum is the residue from Disenchant Item Ritual which creates a golden magical dust that can be used as a universal ritual component. Unlike Incantations, rituals can be inscribed unto scrolls which allows anyone to use them!

So if your looking for more ways to utilize magic, incantations and rituals might be something you may want to add to your campaign.