Intelligence

From Neverend

Intelligence can have actual meaning rather than simply boosting magic or MP. If all NPCs and monsters have a set of default AI functions or abilities, then intelligence can limit the amount or type of AI abilities that are possible.

A wizard has high intelligence in order to use spells. An assassin has high intelligence to track a target, hide, climb walls, use stealth, and escape. Let's say elaborate AI abilities require 18 intelligence. If a player casts a spell that lowers intelligence to something like 5, then the NPC now has the intelligence of an animal, and can either attack or flee, since those are two low intelligence abilities.

Additionally, intelligence could affect dialogue by adding stuttering, yokel dialects, and other mannerisms. It could also any persuasion or charisma based skills, meaning a player is more likely to be unable to convince others or get their way through dialogue, and resort to combat.

Ways to avoid intelligence lowering spells include mental blocks, meditation, studying, herbs, and eating plenty of fish.