planemirror

Planemirror is a term used in the context of tabletop role-playing games (TTRPGs), particularly those inspired by or based on the *Dungeons & Dragons* system. It refers to a specific type of magical illusion or mirror that creates a perfect, reflective duplicate of a plane of existence—such as the Material Plane, the Feywild, or the Shadowfrost—within its own bounded space. Unlike ordinary mirrors, which only reflect appearances, a planemirror can manifest an entire alternate version of a plane, complete with its own geography, inhabitants, and rules of physics.

The concept was first introduced in the *Dungeon Master’s Guide* for *Dungeons & Dragons* (3rd Edition) as a rare and powerful artifact. A planemirror is typically created by advanced planar beings, such as archfey, celestial beings, or other entities with deep knowledge of planar magic. It functions as a portal to another plane, allowing travelers to step through and experience the mirrored version as if it were real. However, the experience is often fleeting, as the mirror’s effects may fade or alter over time, or the traveler may be trapped within the illusion.

Planemirrors are often used in game narratives as a plot device to introduce players to unfamiliar planes or to create surreal, dreamlike environments. They can also serve as a test of perception, faith, or courage, as the mirrored plane may not always behave as expected. For example, a planemirror of the Feywild might depict a whimsical forest, but the laws of nature could be distorted, making it dangerous or disorienting for visitors.

In broader fantasy literature and media, the idea of a planemirror has inspired similar concepts, such as portals to alternate dimensions or illusory reflections that distort reality. While not as commonly encountered as other magical artifacts, the planemirror remains a fascinating element in fantasy storytelling, symbolizing the fluidity and mystery of parallel worlds.