Artifact

Artifact

(Magic item)

Artifact

Caster Level (1E)

20+

Item Level (2E)

20+

Source: Artifacts & Legends, pg(s). 4–6 (1E)
GM Core, pg(s). 300–301 (2E)

Artifacts are generally level 20 or higher in Pathfinder Second Edition, or CL 20 or higher in First Edition, but exceptions exist in both editions.

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An artifact is a legendary magical item of tremendous power, created by methods which have either been forgotten by the peoples of Golarion, or were always beyond the skills of mortals.

Artifacts cannot be created or damaged by normal means; they are extraordinary by definition, and their abilities and existence can defy the limitations of reality. They are unique in nature, and according to the underworld dragon Valashinaz, even a perfect recreation of an artifact is not guaranteed to produce the same outcome.

Major and minor artifacts

Pathfinder First Edition content This section covers a term or subject that is relevant to the Pathfinder campaign setting only in the context of the first edition of the Pathfinder Roleplaying Game.

Artifacts can generally be broken down into two categories: major and minor.

• Major artifacts are unique creations of tremendous power, designed for a specific purpose.
• Minor artifacts are somewhat less powerful, yet still able to change the fate of nations. They are not unique, although they exist in much, much smaller numbers than standard magic items.

Both types of artifacts are exceedingly difficult to destroy, often requiring specific, difficult to achieve criteria in order to be unmade.

Known artifacts

See also: Category:Artifacts

References

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