The Magic and Cost of Construing a Megalithic Magic Submarine in Dungeons Dragons

How much time and money would be needed to construct a giant magic submarine in Dungeons Dragons 5th Edition (DD 5E)? This project is significantly more complex and costly compared to a regular sailing vessel, as we’ll explore in this detailed breakdown.

Comparison to a Sailing Vessel

Typically, the construction of a large submarine is three times more costly than a regular sailing vessel of the same size. To that, we should add another triple for the magical enchantments. Most enchantments start at a minimum cost of 100,000 gp, and it is common to adjust this figure by tripling it until it feels appropriately high.

Enchanting Cost

For the enchantment process, the time required is 3 months per 10 feet of vessel length. If this estimate seems too low, it can be tripled or adjusted accordingly until it feels appropriate. The goal as a Dungeon Master (DM) is to create a scenario that fits within the game's economy and realism.

Construction Time

Construction time is another critical factor to consider. A giant magic submarine typically takes 50 additional days beyond what it would take to construct the same cost hull. The exact duration will depend on the technological and magical resources available and the complexity of the project.

The Unseen Element: Magic

Another interesting aspect is the concept of magic itself. In DD, magic is a resource separate from time and money. For example, if a character already has the magical power to conjure something, they won't need to spend additional money or time. However, creating a magically powered crew that understands how to operate such a vessel can be quite problematic. The journey to obtaining such knowledge would be as complex as the construction itself.

Fictional Justification

The concept of a 'giant magic submarine' is somewhat far-fetched, much like the movie The Magic Christian. However, within the context of a fantasy game, we can imagine such a vessel as the ultimate form of underwater transportation and luxury.

Conclusion

The construction and enchantment of a giant magic submarine in DD is a costly and time-consuming endeavor, far beyond the scope of a typical sailing vessel. The exact figures and timeline would be set by the DM to fit the story and balance of the game. The magical aspects introduce unique challenges, making this a compelling and immersive aspect of the game.