Is there a higher-level and more effective version of Nystul's Magic Aura?

[TuggyNE]

Nystul's magic aura is limited to objects 5 lb/level or less (not creatures or freestanding spell effects, and not extremely large objects), and is fairly easy to spot as an illusion with a bit of Spellcraft (though Heighten might work). So, is there a higher-level version that patches some of these problems, or is this a fruitful field for homebrew?


ETA: Also, any other features that should be added to a prospective homebrew version?

[elonin]

Don't know of anything offhand. You could try looking through the spell compendium. If not then it depends on your dm as research will come into play.

[Deophaun]

Not that I know of.

Do note that if you use magic aura to suppress an item's aura, the only way to penetrate it is with a successful Will save (because you can neither see nor detect the effect).

[TuggyNE]

Do note that if you use magic aura to suppress an item's aura, the only way to penetrate it is with a successful Will save (because you can neither see nor detect the effect).

Hmm, true, and that is probably the most useful general application.


Oh, also, any other uses I should put in the homebrew version?

[hymer]

Just a thought: You could have the spell cover everything in the area with one powerful aura of illusion for a less powerful effect. That way people would still know something is up if they detect magic (and likely could start expending resources to get past it), they just can't pinpoint what you're covering up at the drop of a hat.

[nedz]

It depends upon what you are trying to achieve, but Permanent Illusion or even Limited Wish (etc.) might be useful in some situations.

[Darrin]

If you want to make the save DC higher, then Nystul's magic aura + Heighten Spell is probably the way to go.

If you want to throw magical detectors off the track, then casting arcane mark or illusory script gives the item an aura that shows up with detect magic, but doesn't indicate that the item itself has some other enchantment.