Creative Practice2026-04-24
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Constraint-Driven Magic: Refinement of Existing Framework

- Hard Magic Systems (Hickson: limitations create tension) vs. - Constraint-Driven Coherence (existing vault: constraints cascade into systems)

SourcesHard Magic Systems (Hickson: limitations create tension) vs. Constraint-Driven Coherence (existing vault: constraints cascade into systems)
TensionNot a tension—a refinement. Hickson's hard magic systems are a specific application of constraint-driven design. Sanderson's three laws are: 1. Limitations create tension (constraints enable drama) 2. Cost/consequence (constraints create price) 3. Integration (constraints shape society) These are exactly the constraint-driven-coherence principle applied to magic systems: constraints (magic limitations) cascade into
pressure 15speculative
Connected
conceptHard Magic Systems — Sanderson's LawsconceptConstraint-Driven Coherence
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