Character type

Ars Magica is different from most other role-playing games in that not all characters are equally powerful. Magi are, by far, the most powerful characters: wizards of great magical ability. Companions are important, but clearly weaker, characters, who assist the magi with special talents or knowledge. Grogs are supporting characters, usually servants.

The three character types have different roles in the story. Magi have unrivaled power, and are the main focus of the game. They are the leaders of the Covenant, so they are usually in charge. Yet magi can't do everything on their own. Almost all magi have serious social handicaps because of The Gift, and need to rely on other characters to interact with people. They are often not very good at anything except magic, and inexperienced magi in particular need guides and assistants. Magi are also the most demanding characters to play.

Companions

Companions can mingle either with wizards or among the mundane folk of Mythic Europe. They offer the most freedom of all the character types. A companion can be designed to fit any concept, can have any kind of abilities (even limited magical powers), and can experience more facets of Mythic Europe than other characters. Companions of exceptional potency are Mythic Companions, who are often played in lieu of the player's main (magus) character.

Grogs

Grogs are minor characters, but they can be a lot of fun to play. The magi's bodyguards are grogs, so they are a great choice for players who enjoy the thrill of Combat. Grogs are more straightforward to play than other character types. They are much less powerful, in absolute terms, than magi or even companions, but in most games, the wizards would be hard pressed to get by without them!

Complimentary roles

Each of the character types specializes at something the other types don't do as well. Unlike in other role-playing games, in Ars Magica the roles are complimentary, but not equal. In a way, this reflects the social stratification of medieval times.

These three different character types feature prominently in Troupe Style play. Each player has several characters, but only plays one at a time. One game the player might play his magus, and the next game he might play a lowly grog. This enables each player to experience Ars Magica from a different character's point of view.

Inequality and Fairness

Some new players are bothered by the way magi are so powerful, and grogs have to follow orders. On the surface, it doesn't seem fair.

More power does not mean more fun. This is a point the Ars Magica designers were trying to get across. Ars Magica is first and foremost about stories, not slaying monsters and amassing treasure. Grogs can have stories that are just as enjoyable as the magi's. They're just a different kind of story.

A good Storyguide will create story elements that engage all the players. A good Troupe will encourage players of grogs to participate as much as the magi's players do. In this respect, Ars Magica is not very different from other role-playing games. The key is to try to understand each different role and enjoy it on its own terms.

Legacy Page

The history of this page before August 6, 2010 is archived at Legacy:character_types