manorbased

Manorbased, often written mana-based, is a term used in fantasy literature and game design to describe magic systems in which spellcasting draws energy from a common resource called mana. In such systems, every spell or magical effect has a mana cost, and players must monitor and manage their mana pool to maximize effectiveness. Mana typically regenerates over time, can be replenished through resting, potions, or special abilities, and may be influenced by buffs, debuffs, or environmental factors. The model contrasts with mana-free or stamina-based systems where spells are limited by cooldowns, momentum, or fatigue, rather than a pool.

Designers use manorbased mechanics to create pacing and decision-making: players must decide when to cast high-cost spells, what to save for emergencies, and how to balance offense, defense, and resource management. Some implementations separate mana by schools or abilities, while others employ a single shared pool. Variants may include mana regeneration penalties when in combat, mana overflows, or restrictions on mana use in certain zones.

In practice, mana-based magic appears across many fantasy games and media, from traditional RPGs to modern MMOs, and is widely discussed in design literature as a foundational choice that shapes combat flow and character progression. The term itself is a descriptor rather than a formal title for a specific system and is often substituted with mana-based magic or mana pool in prose.

See also: Mana, Magic system, Resource management, Spellcasting.