Best Magic Systems: Part 2

When reading sci-fi and fantasy, I am always attracted by unique magic systems. Sometimes authors come up with the most creative ideas that enthrall me and give the fantasy world life. I am going to share with you the few of the best I've come across.

Second on my list (and these are in no particular order) is the magic system from the Wheel of Time series by Robert Jordan. It is such an intricate, well thought out system and is perfect for a sweeping fantasy saga like Wheel of Time.

In Wheel of Time, some people are able to channel the One Power, which has two sections: saidin and saidar. Men can channel saidin and women can channel saidar. The One Power can be woven into spells using the five elements: earth, water, air, fire, and spirit.

At the heart of the story is the fact that saidin has been tainted by the Dark One, so any man who channels it will eventually go mad and die. Because of this, female channelers formed an organization called Aes Sedai and hunt down male channelers.

There are so many complex rules to the magic system that I don't even know where to start to tell you how amazing Robert Jordan's creative mind is. For example, the Aes Sedai use the One Power to bond Warders to them for protection, they can make inter-dimensional portals, they can heal, create illusions and wards, use mind control, and much more.

Not every channeler can do all these things; everyone has their own strengths and abilities. Men are generally stronger with earth and fire and women with water and air. Women can form a circle to do more powerful channeling and shield someone from the One Power.

Jordan's world has the most amazingly complex magic system that I have ever read about.