What We Know About Magic
There are some properties of magic that we can derive from observing any model for its existence - these are considered to be fundamental properties of magic.
Magic is very closely tied to reality, and can be considered either a part of it or a separate entity - perhaps they are both two separate pieces of something greater. What is known for sure is that they are not the same thing - there is ample proof for this in the existance of "dead zones" where magic seems to be completely missing and yet reality continues to safely exist.
What affects magic affects reality, and vice versa. While the former is quite obvious, as the definition of a spell is magic altering reality, a careful study proves the latter to be equally true. Studies of the stars have revealed that they themselves are not magical or the result of magical alteration, yet the massive energy levels of stars alters magic in clearly observable ways. Another simple proof of this is, again, the casting of a spell - actions in reality manipulate magic, which then in turn manipulates reality.
Model One: The Weave
The Weave permeates the whole of reality, attached to it and "woven" around it like a fabric. Whatever the Weave is actually made of (some refer to it as Aether), it is wound so tightly around and through reality that manipulating the Weave becomes synonymous with manipulating reality - to do one is to do the other.
Some suggest that the Weave is not actually magic, but the barrier between our reality and the source of magic. By this theory, manipulating the Weave seems to be magical because by manipulating the Weave, we are manipulating the barrier between reality and magic - we let magic into our reality. If this theory is correct, then the Weave does not cease to exist in "dead spots", but instead it seems to be lacking because it is woven so tightly shut that we are unable to sense it or manipulate it and magic does not creep through at all.
The Good:
The Weave is a fairly universal model which can be easily comprehend by both players and characters, making it a user-friendly mechanic when applied in game and allowing for puzzle solving relating to magic and the way it works.
The Bad:
Because the Weave is so universal, it is often encountered and thus can become boring or feel repetitive after awhile.
Overall:
The Weave's universal nature makes it an excellent add-on to another model, only the most specifically defined magical systems cannot be easily manipulated to incorporate the Weave. Furthermore, since the Weave can be added onto other magic systems without corrupting the original, it makes it a safe choice in almost all situations.
Model Two: The Elements
Reality can be boiled down to four basic elements of reality, which are traditional Earth, Fire, Water, and Air. Whether this breakdown of reality is metaphorical or actual, and how actual it might be, differs from system to system. Some believe that all things in reality are made up of components of at least one of the elements, and some believe that our reality exists in a balance between the elements.
Whatever the case, the nature of reality is highly affected by the nature of the elements, and by manipulating them magic-users may manipulate reality.
The Good:
This model is a highly classical one, meaning that it can fit in quite well with many historical religious, mystical and cosmological belief systems. The fact that it incorporates the elements so strongly gives a large focus to elemental spells, making the creation and use of them not only practical but logical.
The Bad:
It may be hard to logically understand how this kind of magic system can achieve certain effects, such as raising the dead or teleportation. This causes either a limitation on the capabilities of the magic, or some cognitive dissonance and decreased immersion.
Overall:
This system works well if it fits the system - attempts to make the system fit it will usually end with poor results.
Theory Three: The Language
Words, symbols, and other things that carry meaning also carry power, and wielded properly that power can achieve amazing affects.
It is not clear why these words and symbols, many and often most of them seeming strange and foreign, wield such power. Some believe that everything has a name or calling attached to it, and that represents it - whatever is done with the name is done with the actuality. The more technologically minded may believe we exist in a virtual reality, and the words and symbols are programming codes which we alter as we use them.
The Good:
This model fits in nicely with many game mechanics, which often feature verbal components to spells. Game systems which involve a virtual reality or technological magic may also find that this system fits in nicely.
The Bad:
If the setting doesn't fit this model, it will likely feel tacked on and artificial.
Overall:
This model is best used when combined with another model for magic, such as the Weave. When this can be done, or the setting especially fits this model, it's use can be applied quite successfully.
