Spellcasting and ability scores

[Skywatcher]

I have a question about spellcasting and base ability scores.  In order to cast a certain level spell I know you have to have a base ability of 10 plus the spell level but my question is whether that has to be you un buffed ability score or if equipment affects this.  Say a wizard with a 17 Int wanted to cast 9th level spells would he have to add points to his Int at level up to increase his Int or could he wear rings or something to increase his Int to 19?  Thanks if anyone knows this.

[Weeblie]

Only your base NWN ability score counts.

Subrace bonus, rings, spells and all the other ways to increase the scores don't count.

In other words: To cast level 9 spells, a wizard would require at least 19 int when he last was presented with the opportunity to increase his ability points (either character creation, or each 4th level).

After having said that, I'm not really sure if the Epic Intelligence/Epic Wisdom/Epic Charisma feats count or not, but that's kind of irrevelant for the moment, I think.

Side note: My own character is a level 16 cleric for the moment, with a base wisdom of 18 (27 with her usual items ). She will get her level 9 spells on level 20 instead of level 17 as usual for most other characters.

[Dorganath]

It must be your un-modified, base ability score.  NWN does not consider buffs, items that give ability bonuses or subrace bonuses/penalties when determining if a character can cast a particular level of spell.
  Because it's important, I'll reiterate one point:
  Sub-race bonuses and penalties are not considered by NWN when determining whether a character can cast a certain level of spell. Racial bonuses and penalties for the standard races do apply, but that's because NWN handles them when the character is created, and they are not in-game adjustments.
  Edit: a bit slow, but it's good to have everything straight!  

[merlin34baseball]

Someone please correct me if I am wrong but I am almost (99%) positive that it is the natural ability score that effects spell levels available to cast.  Rings and amulets and such offer bonus spell slots and increases in skill above and beyond natural ability when it comes to spell casting.

*Ya both beat me to it! I didnt know about the subrace thing though!*

[Skywatcher]

Thanks for the quick reponse.  Just what I needed.