Well, you can start by looking at real - world concepts and twisting them into something magical. Say, if you take the concept of energy, in your fantasy world it could be a visible, manipulable force for magic. Make sure your magic system has a cost. Maybe using powerful magic drains the user's life force or causes some other negative consequence. And don't forget to give it different levels of complexity. Simple spells for beginners and extremely intricate ones for the masters of magic.
First, consider the source of magic. It could be an inborn trait, a learned skill from ancient texts, or a gift from a deity. For example, in 'Harry Potter', magic is an inborn ability in some people. Then, think about the limitations of magic. This adds realism and prevents it from being an all - powerful plot device. Also, how magic is accessed and controlled is important. Is it through spells, potions, or mental concentration? Each aspect of the magic system should be consistent throughout the novel.
Base it on real - world concepts. For example, if you take the idea of energy from physics and twist it into a magical form in your world. Maybe in your world, people can manipulate different types of 'energy' that have different effects like healing, destruction, or transformation.
You can start by asking 'what if' questions. What if magic was a form of communication with nature spirits? Or what if magic was a disease that some people were immune to and others could control? Then, develop the mechanics. How is the magic activated? Is it through spoken words, gestures, or something else? And make sure the magic system has consequences. If a character uses too much magic, they might go insane or transform into something else.
In her novels, like 'Shadow and Bone', she creates the Grisha magic system. The Grisha are divided into different orders based on their abilities, such as the Corporalki who can manipulate the human body. This division gives a clear structure to the magic.
In 'A Conjuring of Light' by V.E. Schwab, the magic system is quite distinct. There are different types of magic users and the way they draw power and use it in combat or for other purposes varies a great deal. For example, some can manipulate time, which adds a whole new layer to the story.
Magic systems can create conflicts. For example, in 'A Song of Ice and Fire', the magic of the Others is a great threat, which drives the plot forward as characters have to face this unknown and powerful magic. It also provides solutions. Wizards or mages with magic can solve problems that normal means can't, like in 'The Lord of the Rings' where Gandalf uses his magic to protect the Fellowship at times.
Come up with unique settings and worlds. Don't just copy the usual fantasy tropes. Maybe have a world where magic works in a completely new way or where the creatures and races have never-before-seen characteristics.
Well, you could draw inspiration from nature, like naming it after elements like fire or water. Or maybe base it on mythological creatures or concepts.
Magic in 'His Dark Materials' is related to the daemons and Dust. It has a spiritual and scientific aspect to it. The characters' connection to their daemons is a crucial part of the magic in this world. When comparing it to other novels like 'The Dresden Files' where magic is a bit more like a hidden part of the modern world and the wizard has to deal with both the magical and mundane aspects of life, we can see how different magic systems can reflect different themes and settings.
Yes, some Shield Hero Atlas web novels might have unique magic systems. For instance, the magic in the world could be tied to the different heroes' weapons. The Shield Hero might have a magic system that is more about defense - based magic, like creating shields of different elements or using the shield to absorb and redirect magic attacks.
Sure. 'Overlord: Arcane Dominion' has a very unique magic system. In this novel, the overlord has the ability to manipulate different types of arcane energies in ways that are not seen in other typical fantasy novels. For example, they can combine elements of fire and water magic to create a new type of steam - based attack magic.