Choose-Your-Own Wizard

In the world of cosplay and RPGs the wizard has been a longtime favorite. But within the classic picture—long beard, pointy hat, robe, etc.—are layers of customizable possibility. Here’s a quick and easy Choose-Your-Own wizard builder.

Required:

1) The Robe: every wizard absolutely must have a robe, it’s … ineffable. Maybe it’s just for formal appearances to wow the kingdom or perhaps this wizard has been so tied up in their projects that the robe has been in daily use for years. The robe could be overwear hung by the door or simply all there is.

2) The Pointy Hat: similarly requisite is the pointy hat. Possibly it’s kept on a shelf except during an annual ceremony or maybe it’s a necessary part of the magic. Whether it’s rather shabby or kept in pristine condition, it’s sure to be around somewhere. (The star motif is optional.)

3) The Magic Stick: could be a staff, maybe a wand, generally wood, sometimes crystal. Rumor has it there’s a galaxy with laser-based options. Any way around it, the consensus is that magic should be focused through something other than yourself—to avoid any unfortunate accidents.

4) The Beard: because let’s face it, a clean-shaven wizard is the bad guy. Don’t ask why, I don’t make the rules. To prove your good intent, have a long beard—whether it’s tuck-in- the-belt long or ouch-you-stepped-on-it long is your call. Keep it clean and tidy or dig out yesterday’s breadcrumbs for a quick snack, but please clean up that bird turd!

5) The Jewelry: rings and pendants offer so many opportunities for portable magic, you don’t want to miss out.

a. Rings: whether it’s that one ring you bound all the other rings to (hope you don’t misplace that…) or the rings your troublesome nephew and his friend are inevitably going to “borrow” rings are incredibly handy to use.
b. Pendants: illusion charms, control mechanisms, power sources, really the opportunities are endless.

Optional:

Based on your particular magical proclivities or personal eccentricities—any, all, or none of the following may be useful.

1) Tea Setting: whether you are actually drinking tea or simply have a more refined approach to potions, a tea setting can come in handy. From Merlin’s cave to a hobbit hole, wizards can’t go wrong with a nice tea setting tucked on their belt.

2) Books: unless you’re entirely mad or brilliant (or both?), reference guides are always handy. Perhaps this is a single tome that contains every bit of magical information you need to know, or maybe there’s an entire library to keep track of.

3) Pipe: enjoy a calming moment watching your rings of smoke or even miniature ships sailing away on the breeze. It does have to be taken into consideration that this would be one of the less healthy pastimes a wizard could enjoy—unless there’s a spell to counter lung degeneration?

4) Cauldron: it’s possible to find travel-sized cauldrons in downtown London if you know where to look, helpful if you expect to be on the move. (You’re a wizard, crossing the Atlantic should be a trifle, right?) Otherwise, your classic potion or alchemy cauldron may have to be left in your study.

5) Bag: if your items have a habit of getting lost or rowdy when enchanted to follow, then you might want to consider a bag. Carpetbags were a popular choice in the early 20 th century—allowing magicians and nannies alike to easily access magically enlarged interiors. A briefcase was noted for similar efficiency. But if you’re looking for something to hold up to a dragon-slaying adventure, perhaps consider a satchel instead.

Last but not least is the quirky addition. This one can’t be found on any list or in a book, it’s the spark that makes your wizarding character unique. Maybe it’s talking to small insects or a penchant for anthropomorphic brooms, possibly an unusual scar (lightning is disqualified). But once you have found that spark, you are ready: with a fully formed wizard, it is time for whatever grand adventure awaits you. Happy traveling!