FuturePath - User contributions [en]

Timeline

2016-01-27T00:25:42Z

173.203.4.162: /* Before Jove */

''' THIS PAGE REQUIRES EDITING! '''

The light shined through the tall windows and bounced off the dust in the air before illuminated large hall with a deep red. Towing shelves are navigated by a few care takers as they search
for the books housed within this maze. Large hall ways where the walls are shelves and changes in the path are defined by time. Most no longer bother the lengthy expedition to the archives
when more modern means are possible. But some cannot resist the physical feel of ancient knowledge. Some need to feel the pages and smell its age to truly get a sense of its importance.

An old and respected species the Aconians have always valued history. There place in it as well as the others. No species can claim such a curiosity for forgotten things as the Aconians.
And here in there home world there oldest and largest Library and Museum sits. The Aconian Great Archive of the Ages. It is accompanied by an University dedicated to preserving and adding
to its halls.

Today a young and most adventurous Aconian student quietly transverses the hallways searching for material. He has always been curious about the most ancient of things and the untold secrets
of long go civilizations. He boldly thinks it will be him to make the next big discovery about the mysteries of the Galaxy. What where the ancient civilizations like? Did many of them exist
to begin with? If so where did they all go? Why isn't only in the past 300,000 years has there been an assurance of intelligent life? What was the galaxy truly like before?

To discover these mysteries any good scholar would of course try to start where others left off. So here would be the start of his adventure. Besides he had no money and still had years of
schooling left of course he couldn't leave. So here every weekend he would roam these halls. Get lost in ancient books and stories of old. He knew of course of the well understood A.J Years.
The years After Jove sectioned off as the 'First Encounter'. Everything from the First Encounter and on where considered AJ. It was when the Jove first arrived from another Galaxy and
started to circumnavigate the Great Ring of Life. Sense that point one history gets more and more clearer. This student cared little for the more well known going ons of the last few
millennium. He was more interested in the times before the First Encounter. The Twin Empires, before that the Chaos Epoc and even before that the Era of Awaking. Finally... the Time Before
Remembrance or simply put the unknown.

A few relics and old little trinkets from civilizations that meat there demise by the cruel hand of the Great Filter are all the remain of the Time Before Remembrance. Why did no
civilizations ever reach out into the stars until the Era of Awaking? What happened? Did some make it and flee this galaxy or some other secret fate? He must know!

== Before Jove ==

Before the Jove came the Galaxy is entering chaos once again. The Twin Empires where crumbling under there wait and war even though deemed madness seamed the only solution to keep power.
But the Jove changed everything. Before Jove is a time where the galaxy had a chance to go down its own path and make its own history. What the finial pages would say about the Milky Way
and the Ring of Life? We will never know. But if the past 200,000 years where any indication it would not be good.

# '''Time Before Remembrance''' ( - : ~ -200,000): This is as far back in time any recovered texts written by a space faring civilization. Little is know about intelligent life before this point. There seams to be little evidence of any space faring civilizations ever existing before this time. Which is mysterious because the Galaxy is over 13,210,000,000 years old. It seams odd that so much life would seemingly spring forth only in the last 250,000 years.
# '''Era of Awaking''' (~ -200,000: ~ -100,000): The first great and oldest civilizations emerge during this time. Most scholars assume many great things happened within this time. But many of the Civilizations that reached into the stars eventually died or vanished. Most of them likely encountered other hostile forces and where wiped out. The largest records come from the few surviving Civilizations and they are in many ways biased. There also was the problem that these Civilizations never truly reached across the whole of the galaxy. And thus there records are limited to the sectors they where most familiar with.
# '''Chaos Epoc''' (~ -90,000): One of the most recorded galactic wars and perhaps the first galactic in scale war of the Milky Way happened during this time. However how and when this war actually started is hotly debated amongst historians. It lastly for roughly 1,000 years and started sometime in -90,000 BJ.
# '''Twin Empires''' (~90,000: 0): After all the devastation and terror that was the Chaos Epoc the galaxy saw two super powers rise. These Powers are now called by historians as the 'Twin Empires'. This is because they started out having so many similarities that its hard sometimes to distinguish an historical event that happened to one Empire from an event that happened to the other. Or a leader from one Empire that is so like a leader from the other. The Empires came from the to most powerful Civilizations from the winning side of the wars of the Chaos Epoc. The Empires started on the other side of the Galaxy and thus at first only barely knew one another. But as the years moved on the empires territories finally expanded into one another. And after both Empires and greatly out stretched themselves that started to collapse under there own weight. Blaming one another for there own problems war seamed impossible to avoid. This is the climate the Jove entered into.

== After Jove ==

A new age started with the Jove. Although there are other times lines used by different species to help standardize time all space faring species people use Jove time. Which starts with when the Jove robots first boot. Although more recently it has been adjusted to be the First Encounter with the Jove.

'''The Reboot:''' (Year -256) This is when Jove robots came back from a long sleep. Once the Jove died they didn't send their robots out immediately. They waited for an unknown amount of time in which the metal machines lay still and quite. None thought except one computer. The computer was tasked to reboot all the Jove. The origin of the Jove is hotly debated but the true evidence of there home would be this one computer which has yet to be found.

'''The First Encounter:''' (Year 0) Supposedly this is when the Jove first encountered a young space faring race. However this didn't go over well. For whatever reason the Jove had to defend themselves which lead to the near extinction. This also lead to a new set of rules the Jove most fallow. The species was moved to a new planet and its inhabits where sent back to pre dark ages. Jove has kept this species a secret, they say its for the species on good. Many people look for for evidence of such possible ancient yet gone civilization when looking for the possible origin of the Jove.

'''The Spiral Voyage:''' (Year 312) It was here the Jove changed the algorithms for finding new species after discovering the "Ring of Life". It was the logical conclusion determined by observation of the past 312 years. That the majority of life in this galaxy would be within a circular space at a range out from the center of the galaxy. A somewhat wide circle. This discovery (although not only made by the Jove) was considered to be one of the most important in early history.

'''The First Coalition:''' (Year 2690) Although this coalition of species wasn't the first or only in this galaxy even after the "The Reboot" there was several things that stood out. Firstly it was the largest known at the time. Secondly it was not done out of war but of trade and the desire for lasting peace. And third the Jove arbitrated over the proceeds. This was the first time that species recognized the Jove as more then just random machines that navigated the galaxy. Although it was largely out of necessity to get a truly natural side. This is probably the reason for the coalition being so large.

'''The Great Collapse:''' (Year 3451) The is the beginning of the first great war. Known as Space War One or the War of the First Ones. This came into being because of multi Coalitions/Alliances/ Federations and so forth that where springing up into what was soon going to be the first fully navigated (Thanks to the Jove, universe) This all started when information supposedly held secret by the Jove was leaked. The Jove had kept secret the mass majority of navigation charts and maps of the galaxy. Also all the species that where not yet discovered any of the species that where part of what the Jove called "Coalescences". This was all space faring species that choose to interact and be made aware of and known by other species. Once the information was leaked it knocked of a series of events that cascaded into the break down of the Coalescences. Many great and powerful weapons where used during this war. The weapons where capable of taking out whole planets and even solar systems. Once the War was finished the remaining peoples of the galaxy agreed to never again use these Weapons of Extreme Devastation. Under the authority placed upon the Jove by the peoples of the galaxy the Jove destroyed all known remaining weapons and technology and forbid others from creating such weapons.

'''The New Birth:''' (Year 3692) A few years after Space War One was done and all the First Ones destroyed Jove was given governing authority of the new rising species in one simple aspect. To make sure that they did not research and produce new WEDs. (Weapons of Extreme Devastation). In order to invest such authority and to enforce judgment if someone was to disobey a new Coalition was formed. Considered to be the Second "Great" Coalition there first job was to ensure there was no more WEDs and to insure safety and peace. They became the arm that acted with produce to anybody that acted out of line. And they used the Jove simply because there where everywhere and among everybody.

'''Miners Revolt of Talas:''' (Year 3730) Not long after the new order was established a revolt happened. It started because of wrongfully accused miners on a Planet named Talas. The blame for the mistake has been debated. It was originally thought as a mistake by the Jove. But then later found out to be caused by over eager politicians wanting to justify keeping the "Inquisition of Peace" force in power. The force started soon after "New Birth" and used the Jove communication network to find and destroy peoples of the galaxy that went against harmony. All the miners where brutally killed before further investigation could happen. This caused a revolt and even though the Coalition didn't cease its state of power was changed. Some would argue it was a step in the wrong direction. But no scholar would argue weather or not the first move of the new powers that be was wrong. Which was to stop the "Inquisition of Peace". The Jove also stopped sharing there communication channels.

'''One Complete Circle:''' (Year 3811) This event is considered by some to be the crowning moment by the Jove and one of if not the most signification even in recording galactic history. It was when the two main exploratory robot teams met again at the other side of the galaxy from where they started finishing their "Spiral Voyage". It would be a long time until artificial worm wholes would be created for quicker exploration.

'''The Council of Larian:''' (Year ~4130) Its hard to say when this grouped was formed. It started out as a very secretive society and thus little is known of its origin. It eventually created a more public off shoot that helped advise and ease trade between large amounts of space. Especially areas where there where lots of pirates. It became know as the Council of Larian. Larian being a moon where the Council took up residents. Over time the Council became an economic and even military power. Although its greatest influence was in politics it eventually became the only single entity that processed no government or origin species to have a say in galactic policy.

'''Space War Two:''' (Year 6340)

'''The Waring Years:''' (Year 9230 - 11300)

'''Space War Three:''' (Year 15420 - 15601)

'''Humanities Exposure:''' (Year 15859)

'''Humanities WW3:''' (Year 15862 - 67)

'''Present Day:''' (Year 15920)

Timeline

2016-01-27T00:07:32Z

173.203.4.162:

''' THIS PAGE REQUIRES EDITING! '''

The light shined through the tall windows and bounced off the dust in the air before illuminated large hall with a deep red. Towing shelves are navigated by a few care takers as they search
for the books housed within this maze. Large hall ways where the walls are shelves and changes in the path are defined by time. Most no longer bother the lengthy expedition to the archives
when more modern means are possible. But some cannot resist the physical feel of ancient knowledge. Some need to feel the pages and smell its age to truly get a sense of its importance.

An old and respected species the Aconians have always valued history. There place in it as well as the others. No species can claim such a curiosity for forgotten things as the Aconians.
And here in there home world there oldest and largest Library and Museum sits. The Aconian Great Archive of the Ages. It is accompanied by an University dedicated to preserving and adding
to its halls.

Today a young and most adventurous Aconian student quietly transverses the hallways searching for material. He has always been curious about the most ancient of things and the untold secrets
of long go civilizations. He boldly thinks it will be him to make the next big discovery about the mysteries of the Galaxy. What where the ancient civilizations like? Did many of them exist
to begin with? If so where did they all go? Why isn't only in the past 300,000 years has there been an assurance of intelligent life? What was the galaxy truly like before?

To discover these mysteries any good scholar would of course try to start where others left off. So here would be the start of his adventure. Besides he had no money and still had years of
schooling left of course he couldn't leave. So here every weekend he would roam these halls. Get lost in ancient books and stories of old. He knew of course of the well understood A.J Years.
The years After Jove sectioned off as the 'First Encounter'. Everything from the First Encounter and on where considered AJ. It was when the Jove first arrived from another Galaxy and
started to circumnavigate the Great Ring of Life. Sense that point one history gets more and more clearer. This student cared little for the more well known going ons of the last few
millennium. He was more interested in the times before the First Encounter. The Twin Empires, before that the Chaos Epoc and even before that the Era of Awaking. Finally... the Time Before
Remembrance or simply put the unknown.

A few relics and old little trinkets from civilizations that meat there demise by the cruel hand of the Great Filter are all the remain of the Time Before Remembrance. Why did no
civilizations ever reach out into the stars until the Era of Awaking? What happened? Did some make it and flee this galaxy or some other secret fate? He must know!

== Before Jove ==

Before the Jove came the Galaxy is entering chaos once again. The Twin Empires where crumbling under there wait and war even though deemed madness seamed the only solution to keep power.
But the Jove changed everything. Before Jove is a time where the galaxy had a chance to go down its own path and make its own history. What the finial pages would say about the Milky Way
and the Ring of Life? We will never know. But if the past 200,000 years where any indication it would not be good.

# '''Time Before Remembrance''' ( - : ~ -200,000):
# '''Era of Awaking''' (~ -200,000: ~ -100,000):
# '''Chaos Epoc''' (~ -90,000):
# '''Twin Empires''' (~90,000: 0):

== After Jove ==

A new age started with the Jove. Although there are other times lines used by different species to help standardize time all space faring species people use Jove time. Which starts with when the Jove robots first boot. Although more recently it has been adjusted to be the First Encounter with the Jove.

'''The Reboot:''' (Year -256) This is when Jove robots came back from a long sleep. Once the Jove died they didn't send their robots out immediately. They waited for an unknown amount of time in which the metal machines lay still and quite. None thought except one computer. The computer was tasked to reboot all the Jove. The origin of the Jove is hotly debated but the true evidence of there home would be this one computer which has yet to be found.

'''The First Encounter:''' (Year 0) Supposedly this is when the Jove first encountered a young space faring race. However this didn't go over well. For whatever reason the Jove had to defend themselves which lead to the near extinction. This also lead to a new set of rules the Jove most fallow. The species was moved to a new planet and its inhabits where sent back to pre dark ages. Jove has kept this species a secret, they say its for the species on good. Many people look for for evidence of such possible ancient yet gone civilization when looking for the possible origin of the Jove.

'''The Spiral Voyage:''' (Year 312) It was here the Jove changed the algorithms for finding new species after discovering the "Ring of Life". It was the logical conclusion determined by observation of the past 312 years. That the majority of life in this galaxy would be within a circular space at a range out from the center of the galaxy. A somewhat wide circle. This discovery (although not only made by the Jove) was considered to be one of the most important in early history.

'''The First Coalition:''' (Year 2690) Although this coalition of species wasn't the first or only in this galaxy even after the "The Reboot" there was several things that stood out. Firstly it was the largest known at the time. Secondly it was not done out of war but of trade and the desire for lasting peace. And third the Jove arbitrated over the proceeds. This was the first time that species recognized the Jove as more then just random machines that navigated the galaxy. Although it was largely out of necessity to get a truly natural side. This is probably the reason for the coalition being so large.

'''The Great Collapse:''' (Year 3451) The is the beginning of the first great war. Known as Space War One or the War of the First Ones. This came into being because of multi Coalitions/Alliances/ Federations and so forth that where springing up into what was soon going to be the first fully navigated (Thanks to the Jove, universe) This all started when information supposedly held secret by the Jove was leaked. The Jove had kept secret the mass majority of navigation charts and maps of the galaxy. Also all the species that where not yet discovered any of the species that where part of what the Jove called "Coalescences". This was all space faring species that choose to interact and be made aware of and known by other species. Once the information was leaked it knocked of a series of events that cascaded into the break down of the Coalescences. Many great and powerful weapons where used during this war. The weapons where capable of taking out whole planets and even solar systems. Once the War was finished the remaining peoples of the galaxy agreed to never again use these Weapons of Extreme Devastation. Under the authority placed upon the Jove by the peoples of the galaxy the Jove destroyed all known remaining weapons and technology and forbid others from creating such weapons.

'''The New Birth:''' (Year 3692) A few years after Space War One was done and all the First Ones destroyed Jove was given governing authority of the new rising species in one simple aspect. To make sure that they did not research and produce new WEDs. (Weapons of Extreme Devastation). In order to invest such authority and to enforce judgment if someone was to disobey a new Coalition was formed. Considered to be the Second "Great" Coalition there first job was to ensure there was no more WEDs and to insure safety and peace. They became the arm that acted with produce to anybody that acted out of line. And they used the Jove simply because there where everywhere and among everybody.

'''Miners Revolt of Talas:''' (Year 3730) Not long after the new order was established a revolt happened. It started because of wrongfully accused miners on a Planet named Talas. The blame for the mistake has been debated. It was originally thought as a mistake by the Jove. But then later found out to be caused by over eager politicians wanting to justify keeping the "Inquisition of Peace" force in power. The force started soon after "New Birth" and used the Jove communication network to find and destroy peoples of the galaxy that went against harmony. All the miners where brutally killed before further investigation could happen. This caused a revolt and even though the Coalition didn't cease its state of power was changed. Some would argue it was a step in the wrong direction. But no scholar would argue weather or not the first move of the new powers that be was wrong. Which was to stop the "Inquisition of Peace". The Jove also stopped sharing there communication channels.

'''One Complete Circle:''' (Year 3811) This event is considered by some to be the crowning moment by the Jove and one of if not the most signification even in recording galactic history. It was when the two main exploratory robot teams met again at the other side of the galaxy from where they started finishing their "Spiral Voyage". It would be a long time until artificial worm wholes would be created for quicker exploration.

'''The Council of Larian:''' (Year ~4130) Its hard to say when this grouped was formed. It started out as a very secretive society and thus little is known of its origin. It eventually created a more public off shoot that helped advise and ease trade between large amounts of space. Especially areas where there where lots of pirates. It became know as the Council of Larian. Larian being a moon where the Council took up residents. Over time the Council became an economic and even military power. Although its greatest influence was in politics it eventually became the only single entity that processed no government or origin species to have a say in galactic policy.

'''Space War Two:''' (Year 6340)

'''The Waring Years:''' (Year 9230 - 11300)

'''Space War Three:''' (Year 15420 - 15601)

'''Humanities Exposure:''' (Year 15859)

'''Humanities WW3:''' (Year 15862 - 67)

'''Present Day:''' (Year 15920)

Timeline

2016-01-27T00:03:04Z

173.203.4.162:

''' THIS PAGE REQUIRES EDITING! '''

The light shined through the tall windows and bounced off the dust in the air before eluminated large hall with a deep red. Towing shevles are navigated by a few care takers as they search
for the books housed within this maz. Large hall ways where the walls are shevles and changes in the path are defined by time. Most no longer bother the lengthy expedition to the archives
when more modern means are possible. But some cannot resist the physical feel of acient knowledge. Some need to feel the pages and smell its age to truelly get a sense of its importance.

An old and respected species the Aconians have always valued history. There place in it as well as the others. No species can claim such a curosity for forgotten things as the Aconians.
And here in there home world there oldest and largest Libary and Musuem sits. The Aconian Great Archive of the Ages. It is occopanied by an University dedicated to presurving and adding
to its halls.

Today a young and most adventurious Aconian student quitly transverses the hallways searching for material. He has always been curious about the most acient of things and the untold secrects
of long go civilizations. He boldy thinks it will be him to make the next big discovery about the mysteries of the Galaxy. What where the acient civilizations like? Did many of them exist
to begin with? If so where did they all go? Why isn't only in the past 300,000 years has there been an assurgance of intellegent life? What was the galaxy truelly like before?

To discover these mysteries any good scholar would of course try to start where others left off. So here would be the start of his adventure. Besides he had no money and still had years of
schooling left of course he couldn't leave. So here every weekend he would roam these halls. Get lost in acient books and stories of old. He knew of course of the well understood A.J Years.
The years After Jove sectioned off as the 'First Encounter'. Everything from the First Encounter and on where considered AJ. It was when the Jove first arrived from another Galaxy and
started to circumnavigate the Great Ring of Life. Sense that point one history gets more and more clearer. This student cared little for the more well known going ons of the last few
millian. He was more interested in the times before the First Encounter. The Twin Empires, before that the Chaos Epoc and even before that the Era of Awaking. Finially... the Time Before
Rememberance or simply put the unknown.

A few relics and old little trinkets from civilizations that meat there demise by the cruel hand of the Great Filter are all the remain of the Time Before Rememberance. Why did no
civilizations ever reach out into the stars until the Era of Awaking? What happened? Did some make it and flee this galaxy or some other secret fate? He must know!

== Before Jove ==

Before the Jove came the Galaxy is entering chaos once again. The Twin Empires where crumbling under there wait and war even though deemed maddess seamed the only sulution to keep power.
But the Jove changed everything. Before Jove is a time where the galaxy had a chance to go down its own path and make its own history. What the finial pages would say about the Milky Way
and the Ring of Life? We will never know. But if the past 200,000 years where any indication it would not be good.

# '''Time Before Rememberance''' ( - : ~ -200,000):
# '''Era of Awaking''' (~ -200,000: ~ -100,000):
# '''Chaos Epoc''' (~ -90,000):
# '''Twin Empires''' (~90,000: 0):

== After Jove ==

A new age started with the Jove. Although there are other times lines to help standardize all space faring species people use Jove time. Which starts with when the Jove robots first boot.

'''The Reboot:''' (Year 0) This is when Jove robots came back from a long sleep. Once the Jove died they didn't send their robots out immediately. They waited for an unknown amount of time in which the metal machines lay still and quite. None thought except one computer. The computer was tasked to reboot all the Jove. The origin of the Jove is hotly debated but the true evidence of there home would be this one computer which has yet to be found.

'''The First Encounter:''' (Year 256) Supposedly this is when the Jove first encountered a young space faring race. However this didn't go over well. For whatever reason the Jove had to defend themselves which lead to the near extinction. This also lead to a new set of rules the Jove most fallow. The species was moved to a new planet and its inhabits where sent back to pre dark ages. Jove has kept this species a secret, they say its for the species on good. Many people look for for evidence of such possible ancient yet gone civilization when looking for the possible origin of the Jove.

'''The Spiral Voyage:''' (Year 312) It was here the Jove changed the algorithms for finding new species after discovering the "Ring of Life". It was the logical conclusion determined by observation of the past 312 years. That the majority of life in this galaxy would be within a circular space at a range out from the center of the galaxy. A somewhat wide circle. This discovery (although not only made by the Jove) was considered to be one of the most important in early history.

'''The First Coalition:''' (Year 2690) Although this coalition of species wasn't the first or only in this galaxy even after the "The Reboot" there was several things that stood out. Firstly it was the largest known at the time. Secondly it was not done out of war but of trade and the desire for lasting peace. And third the Jove arbitrated over the proceeds. This was the first time that species recognized the Jove as more then just random machines that navigated the galaxy. Although it was largely out of necessity to get a truly natural side. This is probably the reason for the coalition being so large.

'''The Great Collapse:''' (Year 3451) The is the beginning of the first great war. Known as Space War One or the War of the First Ones. This came into being because of multi Coalitions/Alliances/ Federations and so forth that where springing up into what was soon going to be the first fully navigated (Thanks to the Jove, universe) This all started when information supposedly held secret by the Jove was leaked. The Jove had kept secret the mass majority of navigation charts and maps of the galaxy. Also all the species that where not yet discovered any of the species that where part of what the Jove called "Coalescences". This was all space faring species that choose to interact and be made aware of and known by other species. Once the information was leaked it knocked of a series of events that cascaded into the break down of the Coalescences. Many great and powerful weapons where used during this war. The weapons where capable of taking out whole planets and even solar systems. Once the War was finished the remaining peoples of the galaxy agreed to never again use these Weapons of Extreme Devastation. Under the authority placed upon the Jove by the peoples of the galaxy the Jove destroyed all known remaining weapons and technology and forbid others from creating such weapons.

'''The New Birth:''' (Year 3692) A few years after Space War One was done and all the First Ones destroyed Jove was given governing authority of the new rising species in one simple aspect. To make sure that they did not research and produce new WEDs. (Weapons of Extreme Devastation). In order to invest such authority and to enforce judgment if someone was to disobey a new Coalition was formed. Considered to be the Second "Great" Coalition there first job was to ensure there was no more WEDs and to insure safety and peace. They became the arm that acted with produce to anybody that acted out of line. And they used the Jove simply because there where everywhere and among everybody.

'''Miners Revolt of Talas:''' (Year 3730) Not long after the new order was established a revolt happened. It started because of wrongfully accused miners on a Planet named Talas. The blame for the mistake has been debated. It was originally thought as a mistake by the Jove. But then later found out to be caused by over eager politicians wanting to justify keeping the "Inquisition of Peace" force in power. The force started soon after "New Birth" and used the Jove communication network to find and destroy peoples of the galaxy that went against harmony. All the miners where brutally killed before further investigation could happen. This caused a revolt and even though the Coalition didn't cease its state of power was changed. Some would argue it was a step in the wrong direction. But no scholar would argue weather or not the first move of the new powers that be was wrong. Which was to stop the "Inquisition of Peace". The Jove also stopped sharing there communication channels.

'''One Complete Circle:''' (Year 3811) This event is considered by some to be the crowning moment by the Jove and one of if not the most signification even in recording galactic history. It was when the two main exploratory robot teams met again at the other side of the galaxy from where they started finishing their "Spiral Voyage". It would be a long time until artificial worm wholes would be created for quicker exploration.

'''The Council of Larian:''' (Year ~4130) Its hard to say when this grouped was formed. It started out as a very secretive society and thus little is known of its origin. It eventually created a more public off shoot that helped advise and ease trade between large amounts of space. Especially areas where there where lots of pirates. It became know as the Council of Larian. Larian being a moon where the Council took up residents. Over time the Council became an economic and even military power. Although its greatest influence was in politics it eventually became the only single entity that processed no government or origin species to have a say in galactic policy.

'''Space War Two:''' (Year 6340)

'''The Waring Years:''' (Year 9230 - 11300)

'''Space War Three:''' (Year 15420 - 15601)

'''Humanities Exposure:''' (Year 15859)

'''Humanities WW3:''' (Year 15862 - 67)

'''Present Day:''' (Year 15920)

Whats Different

2016-01-16T00:49:51Z

173.203.4.162:

'''THIS NEEDS UPDATING!'''

What whats different about Future Path? What sets it about from Future d20 or for that matter any other Pen and Paper game? Well glad you asked! The biggest goal is to create a game system where Characters will have more well defined strengths and weaknesses. Balanced is achieved by groups/teams of characters. Another major goal is to help speed up combat to make it feel more action packed and involved. Here is a list of things different from Future d20 and what we strive to make uniq about our game system.

'''1. Wealth System''':
:: A lot of P&P (Pen and Paper) game systems use a simplified way of handling wealth. The goal is to stream line game play and make it more about the story then about epic shopping. However this forces the GM and the Player to roll play in a certain way. What if you want to play out attempting to pay for the illegal substance or for your new Star Ship. Buying a ship can be a major commitment and achievement for a Player. So why not have Players manage there money? Well... its difficult when you get into modern finance. Things are more complicated. There needs to be a middle ground. We believe that our [[Wealth_and_Money|Wealth System]] is a good middle ground that helps to express a Players Wealth in a way that represents modern money without bogging down game play.

'''2. CTO/CTD ''':
:: CTO stands for Combat Technique Offence and CTD stands for Combat Technique Defence. This is inspired by rules from [http://www.d20pfsrd.com/gamemastering/combat#TOC-Combat-Maneuvers d20pfsrd.com]. Except we change it up a little. Our take on it is simple. In Future settings its more about epic laser battles and space ships. Not swords or melee combat. This isn't to say there isn't melee. But you don't bring a knife to a gun fight. So we take all melee style fighting and got it into Combat Melee System. That includes the classical maneuvers like trip and grapple. But also means punching or pistol whipping. Our goal here is to make melee combat smooth and quick. You roll the same d20 dice and you already know your modifiers because they are on your Character sheet. Combat should be able to transition quickly into melee and back into use of a ranged weapon. This also includes Advanced Combat Techniques. These are Techniques that require a feat or special class ability to preform. An example is the Combo Melee Attack.

'''3. Campaign Setting''':
:: What originally inspired this was the serious lack of a Campaign Setting to explore for d20 Future/Modern. There was no Forgotten Realms or Golarion to explore. Although not completely a bad thing it kept the d20 Modern/Future game from feeling whole. Although it did make some sense. d20 Future is simply an expansion/module for d20 Modern. And Modern didn't really need a full Campaign Setting. It could be easily based in real world today. Maybe with just a few twists in it. d20 Future never had the attention it needed. It was too tied to its base on which it was founded on. The first thing that inspired this whole project was simply to give d20 Future a galaxy to run around in. Still largely unknown with possible mysteries or dangers at every star system but at the same time a home to go back to. Large amounts of explored space with civilizations all striving to prove themselves.

'''4. Tech Level''':
:: The Progress levels explained in d20 Future seamed over simplified yet also possibly over complicated. On one end there was not a lot of restrictions laid out on characters Progress Level. There civilizations progress level doesn't effect a Players Knowledge/Crafting and general experience with items of different levels. On the other end there was a lot of different levels. 9 to be exact. When Playing a d20 Future game rarely did we bring in Progress Levels with any relevance. But technology is so cool! Sci-Fi is surrounded by neat tech that unlocks wondrous impossibles and brings them into the palm of a Characters hand. They can bring power and awe. People of lower understanding may simply view someone with advance Technology as a god. Or at least someone of great power that should be feared. Technology is the fuel source of Sci-Fi story plot and can be used to empower GMs and Players alike. In Future Path Player Characters inherit the Tech Level of the civilization they grow up in. The Tech Level effects what level of items a player can repair/modify/craft. And penalties are given for the use of items with Tech Levels to high for a character to understand. More on Tech Level [[Tech_Level_and_Civ_Progress|here]]

'''5. Attack Bonus''':
:: Taking a page from D&D Next while also attempting to better balance Classes and levels we have separated the amount of attacks per turn a Class gets from its Attack Bonus. Now extra attacks are special abilities awarded at certain levels. Also the term "Base Attack Bonus" has been replaced with "Affinity Bonus". Although similar to D&D Next its not quite the same. Your Affinity Bonus goes towards your Melee and Ranged attacks with weapons you are trained to use. It also is a modifier for saving throws with Attributes you have an affinity with. D&D Next doesn't stop there and applies the bonus to other things. Also how you determine Attributes you have an affinity with differ slightly. And even more different is you can have different "Efficiency Bonus" for each class. So you have a Base Class Affinity and your Advance Class also has an Affinity Bonus.

'''6. Skills''':
:: Our approach to handling Skills may seem at first glance to be the same old same old. However there are several major differences. There are 3 types of skills. Natural, UnNatural, and Rank Dependent. The "Rank Dependent" is a new addition to our rule set. The idea is that the rank of the skill determines the best possible outcome. Instead of it just helping to beat a DC by adding a modifier to your d20 roll it also predetermines how good your success is if you do indeed successful. The best example is with Language. Now Language is handled by having a skill rank for each Language you know. If you have a rank of just 1 in say "Common Human" then your best possible outcome is just being able to tell that what you are reading/listening too is indeed Human speech and maybe a few words here and there. Even if you succeed with a natural 20. Your Character is just learning the language. Higher the rank the better the best possible outcome will be.

:: We also add more rules on how to add more ranks to Natural skills. All skills have to be Trained before you can put ranks in them. Class skills are automatically Trained at level 1. However in order to apply the Character's ability modifier to an untrained non-class skill it must first be trained which costs a skill point. If the skill is a Natural skill can still attempt the action but they simply do not add any bonuses too it.

:: To Learn more please visit the [[SkillsBasics|Skills Basics]] page.

'''7. Language''':
:: As noted above in the Skill's section we treat language differently. You simply do not add a language once you level up and instantly are fluent in it. There is a Language skill. This skill determines the amount of languages a character can have. It also is added to any check that evolves comprehending a foreign language. Each language you use has its own skill and skill rank. The rank of that skill predetermines the best possible outcome. Your roll is simply to see if you succeed or fail to achieve that outcome. At rank 1 of a specific language skill a player is just learning that language. The rank is 1 through 6. 6 being that they are fluent in the language so much so they the appear to speak and write it as if it was there first language and they are able to manipulate accents. Each language skill is considered a "Trained" skill and to move up a rank in it costs 2 skill points instead of just one. That also goes for the primary Language skill itself.

:: For the Campaign Setting another twist is added. A lot of different pen and paper games have different philosophies on how to handle language. We want to make a system that can be flexible for both major scenarios. One is that there is a common language and all Players speak it and most NPCs and other characters in the story does as well. Language barriers are rarely brought up. The other side of the fence is a more gritty/realistic approach and has language barriers be a common problem and even used as a plot device. Our approach will be to introduce a common language but have it up to the GM and Players on just how "common" it is in the universe. The the official Campaign setting there will be two common languages. Low Common and High Common. Low being a very simple and easy to learn language thats only confusing part is its many different ways of expressing meaning in order to facilitate species biological differences. Its simple in that it is used to convey only the most basic ideas. High Common is far more complicated with far more exceptions however with complexity you also gain the ability to express much more. Of course there will be other languages but these two are the best way to communicate to the average alien. Will you use this setup? Its honestly up too the GM. But more rules on language skill can be find in the [[Skills|Skills]] section and more about Low/High common can be found in the Campaign Section.

Feats

2016-01-16T00:44:04Z

173.203.4.162: /* Feats */

''' THIS PAGE STILL REQUIRES EDITING! '''

Below is the Feats table. It has a short summary description of the feat in question. However for more information please visit the page dedicated to the feat. Many feats have more verbose descriptions.

==Feat Description Summary==
Here is the format for feat descriptions.

'''Feat Name''': The name of the feat.

'''Prerequisite''': A minimum ability score, another feat or feats, a minimum base attack bonus, and/or the minimum ranks in a skill that a character must have to acquire this feat. This entry is absent if a feat has no prerequisite.
A character can gain a feat at the same level at which he or she gains all the prerequisites.
A character can’t use a feat if the character has lost a prerequisite.

'''Benefit''': What the feat enables a character to do.

'''Normal''': What a character who does not have this feat is limited to or restricted from doing. If there is no particular drawback to not possessing the feat, this entry is absent.

'''Special''': Additional facts about the feat.

==Feats==
{| class="wikitable sortable" style="10px;"
|+ Table: Feats
! style="text-algin:left;" | Feat
! Prerequisites
! Summary
|-
|[[Acrobatic|Acrobatic]]|| - ||+2 bonus on all Jump checks and Tumble checks.
|-
|[[Action Boost|Action Boost]]|| - ||Roll d8s instead of d6s when using an action point.
|-
|[[Advanced Combat Martial Arts|Advanced Combat Martial Arts]]|| Combat Martial Arts, Improved Combat Martial Arts, base attack bonus +8.|| When the character scores a critical hit with an unarmed strike, its triple damage.
|-
|[[Advanced Two-Weapon Fighting|Advanced Two-Weapon Fighting]]|| Dexterity 13, Two-Weapon Fighting, Improved Two-Weapon Fighting, base attack bonus +11.|| Gets a third attack with his or her offhand weapon as well as melee weapon along with a ranged weapon
|-
|[[Agile Riposte|Agile Riposte]]|| Dexterity 13, Dodge.|| Make an attack of opportunity when an (Doge declared) opponent misses a melee attack
|-
|[[Aircraft Operation|Aircraft Operation]]|| - ||Take no penalty on Pilot checks or attack rolls made when operating an aircraft.
|-
| [[SimpleFirearmsProficiency|Firearms, Simple Proficiency]] || - || The Character doesn't take the -4 for using a simple firearm.
|-
| [[AdvancedFirearmsProficiency|Firearms, Advanced Proficiency]] || Simple Firearms Proficiency || The Character doesn't take the -4 for using an advanced firearm.
|-
| [[HeavyFirearmProficiency|Firearms, Heavy Proficiency]] || Advanced Firearms Proficiency || The Character doesn't take the -4 for using a heavy firearm.
|-
|[[Alertness|Alertness]]|| - ||The character gets a +2 bonus on all Listen checks and Spot checks.
|-
|[[Animal Affinity|Animal Affinity]]|| - ||The character gets a +2 bonus on all Handle Animal checks and Ride checks.
|-
|[[Archaic Weapons Proficiency|Archaic Weapons Proficiency]]|| - ||The character takes no penalty on attack rolls when using any kind of archaic weapon.
|-
|[[Armor Proficiency (light)|Armor Proficiency (light)]]|| - ||Ability to wear light armor and add the armor bonus.
|-
|[[Armor Proficiency (medium)|Armor Proficiency (medium)]]|| - ||See Armor Proficiency (light).
|-
|[[Armor Proficiency (heavy)|Armor Proficiency (heavy)]]|| Armor Proficiency (light), Armor Proficiency (medium).|| See Armor Proficiency (light).
|-
|[[Armor Proficiency (Powered)|Armor Proficiency (Powered)]]|| Armor Proficiency ( light) , Armor Proficiency (medium).|| When you wear powered armor, you may add the armor’s entire equipment bonus.
|-
|[[Athletic|Athletic]]|| - ||The character gets a +2 bonus on all Climb checks and Swim checks.
|-
|[[Attentive|Attentive]]|| - ||The character gets a +2 bonus on all Investigate checks and Sense Motive checks.
|-
|[[Blind-Fight|Blind-Fight]]|| - ||re-roll melee attacks that miss because of concealment.
|-
|[[Brawl|Brawl]]|| - ||Can make unarmed attacks more effectively.
|-
|[[Builder|Builder]]|| - ||Pick two of the following skills
|-
|[[Burst Fire|Burst Fire]]|| Wisdom 13, Simple Firearms Proficiency, Advanced Firearms Proficiency.|| Deal +2 dice of damage.
|-
|[[Cautious|Cautious]]|| - ||+2 bonus on all Demolitions checks and Disable Device checks.
|-
|[[Cleave|Cleave]]|| Strength 13, Power Attack.|| Get an extra attack if your first attack causes its target to "drop"
|-
|[[Charismatic Plus|Charismatic Plus]]|| - ||You gain two talents from the Charismatic hero’s talent trees.
|-
|[[Combat Expertise|Combat Expertise]]|| - || Take a penalty of up to –5 on his or her attack roll and add the same number (up to +5) to AC.
|-
|[[Combat Martial Arts|Combat Martial Arts]]|| - ||Unarmed attacks count as armed
|-
|[[Combat Reflexes|Combat Reflexes]]|| - ||The maximum number of attacks of opportunity is now equal to the character’s Dexterity modifier + 1.
|-
|[[Combat Throw|Combat Throw]]|| - ||+2 bonus on opposed Strength and Dexterity checks any time the character attempts trip or grapple attacks
|-
|[[Confident|Confident]]|| - ||+2 bonus on all Intimidate checks, and on level checks to resist intimidation.
|-
|[[Craft Cybernetics|Craft Cybernetics]]|| Craft (electrical) 10 ranks, Craft (mechanical) 10 ranks, Knowledge (life sciences) 5 ranks.|| You can build cybernetic attachments.
|-
|[[Creative|Creative]]|| - ||Pick two skills, read description
|-
|[[Cybernetic Surgery|Cybernetic Surgery]]|| Treat Injury 8 ranks, Surgery.|| You can install or remove a cybernetic attachment.
|-
|[[Cybertaker|Cybertaker]]|| - ||The maximum number of cybernetic attachments you can have is increases by 1.
|-
|[[Dead Aim|Dead Aim]]|| Wisdom 13, Far Shot.|| Take a full round action to line up a shot for a bonus.
|-
|[[Deceptive|Deceptive]]|| - ||The character gets a +2 bonus on all Bluff checks and Disguise checks.
|-
|[[Dedicated Plus|Dedicated Plus]]|| - ||You gain two talents from the Dedicated hero’s talent trees.
|-
|[[Defensive Martial Arts|Defensive Martial Arts]]|| - ||+1 dodge bonus to Defense against melee attacks.
|-
|[[Dodge|Dodge]]|| - ||+1 dodge bonus to Defense against any subsequent attacks from a specified opponent.
|-
|[[Double Tap|Double Tap]]|| Dexterity 13, Point Blank Shot.|| –2 penalty on this attack, but deals +1 die of damage with a successful hit.
|-
|[[Drive-By Attack|Drive-By Attack]]|| - ||Takes no vehicle speed penalty when making an attack while in a moving vehicle
|-
|[[Educated|Educated]]|| - ||Pick two Knowledge skills. The character gets a +2 bonus on all checks with those skills.
|-
|[[Elusive Target|Elusive Target]]|| Dexterity 13, Defensive Martial Arts.|| Opponents that target you with a melee attack take a -4 penalty.
|-
|[[Endurance|Endurance]]|| - || +4 bonus on the following checks and saves, see list in description.
|-
|[[Fast Plus|Fast Plus]]|| - ||You gain two talents from the Fast hero’s talent trees.
|-
|[[Far Shot|Far Shot]]|| - ||Uses a firearm or other ranged weapons, its range increment increases by one-half
|-
|[[Focused|Focused]]|| - ||+2 bonus on all Balance checks and Concentration checks.
|-
|[[Force Stop|Force Stop]]|| Drive 4 ranks, Vehicle Expert.|| Character can force the other vehicle to a stop by nudging it into a controlled sideways skid.
|-
|[[Frightful Presence|Frightful Presence]]|| Charisma 15, Intimidate 9 ranks.|| Opponents within 10 feet of Character take –2 penalty on attack rolls, saves, and skill checks.
|-
|[[Gearhead|Gearhead]]|| - ||+2 bonus on all Computer Use checks and Repair checks.
|-
|[[Great Cleave|Great Cleave]]|| Strength 13, Power Attack, Cleave, base attack bonus +4.|| As Cleave, except that the character has no limit to the number of times he or she can use it per round.
|-
|[[Great Fortitude|Great Fortitude]]|| - ||+2 bonus on all Constitution saving throws.
|-
|[[Guide|Guide]]|| - ||+2 bonus on all Navigate checks and Survival checks.
|-
|[[Jack of all Trades|Jack of all Trades]]|| - ||You can use any skill untrained.(May remove... seams a little OP)
|-
|[[Jerry Rigging|Jerry Rigging]] || - || You can repair items without material costs. You can repair structures in 1/10th the time.
|-
|[[Heroic Surge|Heroic Surge]]|| - ||The character may take an extra move action or attack action in a round.
|-
|[[Improved Brawl|Improved Brawl]]|| Brawl, base attack bonus +3.|| When making an unarmed attack, the character receives a +2 bonus on his or her attack roll.
|-
|[[Improved Bull Rush|Improved Bull Rush]]|| Strength 13, Power Attack.|| When performing a bull rush, the character does not provoke an attack of opportunity.
|-
|[[Improved Combat Martial Arts|Improved Combat Martial Arts]]|| Combat Martial Arts, base attack bonus +4.|| The character’s threat range on an unarmed strike improves to 19–20.
|-
|[[Improved Combat Throw|Improved Combat Throw]]|| Defensive Martial Arts, Combat Throw, base attack bonus +3.|| In melee combat, if an opponent attacks and misses the character, the character may immediately make a trip attack against the opponent.
|-
|[[Improved Damage Threshold|Improved Damage Threshold]]|| - ||The character increases his or her massive damage threshold by 3 points.
|-
|[[Improved Disarm|Improved Disarm]]|| Intelligence 13, Combat Expertise.|| The character does not provoke an attack of opportunity when the character attempts to disarm an opponent
|-
|[[Improved Feint|Improved Feint]]|| Intelligence 13, Brawl, Streetfighting.|| +2 bonus on Bluff checks made to feint in melee combat.
|-
|[[Improved Initiative|Improved Initiative]]|| - ||+4 circumstance bonus on initiative checks.
|-
|[[Improved Knockout Punch|Improved Knockout Punch]]|| Brawl, Knockout Punch, base attack bonus +6.|| First unarmed attack against a flat-footed opponent is automatically considered critical hit if successful.
|-
|[[Improved Trip|Improved Trip]]|| Intelligence 13, Combat Expertise.|| The character does not provoke an attack of opportunity when the character tries to trip an opponent while the character is unarmed.
|-
|[[Improved Two-Weapon Fighting|Improved Two-Weapon Fighting]]|| Dexterity 13, Two-Weapon Fighting, base attack bonus +6.|| The character gets a second attack with his or her offhand weapon, albeit at a –5 penalty.
|-
|[[Iron Will|Iron Will]]|| - ||+2 bonus on all Wisdom saving throws.
|-
|[[Knockout Punch|Knockout Punch]]|| Brawl, base attack bonus +3.|| When making the character’s first unarmed attack against a flat-footed opponent, treat a successful attack as a critical hit.
|-
|[[Lightning Reflexes|Lightning Reflexes]]|| - ||+2 bonus on all Dexterity saving throws.
|-
|[[Low Profile|Low Profile]]|| - ||Reduce the character’s Reputation bonus by 3 points.
|-
|[[Manager|Manager]] || - || Allows the Character to assist another Character with a skill check even if they do not have the correct Skill.
|-
|[[Leadership|Leadership]] || Manager || If successful the bonus provided for aiding another character is now +4 instead of +2.
|-
|[[Mastercrafter|Mastercrafter]]|| - || Reduces the DC check for crafting masterworked items.
|-
| [[SimpleMeleeWeaponPro|Melee Weapon, Simple Proficiency]] || - || The Character doesn't take a -4 when using simple melee weapons
|-
| [[AdvanceMeleeWeaponPro|Melee Weapon, Advanced Proficiency]] || Simple Melee Weapon Proficiency || The Character doesn't take a -4 when using advanced melee weapons
|-
| [[HeavyMeleeWeaponPro|Melee Weapon, Heavy Proficiency]] || Advance Melee Weapon Proficiency || The Character doesn't take a -4 when using heavy melee weapons
|-
|[[Medical Expert|Medical Expert]]|| - ||+2 bonus on all Craft (pharmaceutical) checks and Treat Injury checks.
|-
|[[Meticulous|Meticulous]]|| - ||+2 bonus on all Decipher Script and Perception checks.
|-
|[[Mobility|Mobility]]|| Dexterity 13, Dodge.||+4 dodge bonus to AC against attacks of opportunity provoked when the character moves out of a threatened square.
|-
|[[Nerve Pinch|Nerve Pinch]]|| Combat Martial Arts, base attack bonus +4.|| Preform a melee attack that can paralyze the target.
|-
|[[Nimble|Nimble]]|| - ||+2 bonus on all Escape Artist checks and Sleight of Hand checks.
|-
|[[Oathbound|Oathbound]]|| At least one declared allegiance.|| Choose one of your allegiances.
|-
|[[Point Blank Shot|Point Blank Shot]]|| - ||The character gets a +1 bonus on attack and damage rolls with ranged weapons against opponents within 30 feet.
|-
|[[Power Attack|Power Attack]]|| - ||Take points away from hitting a target and add them to damage dealt if successful.
|-
|[[Planetary Adaption|Planetary Adaption]]|| - ||You gain one of the benefits listed in the description, depending on your planet of origin.
|-
|[[Precise Shot|Precise Shot]]|| - ||The character can shoot or throw ranged weapons at an opponent engaged in melee without penalty.
|-
|[[Salvage|Salvage]]|| - ||Salvaging a destroyed vehicle, mecha, starship, robot, or cybernetic attachment takes time.
|-
|[[Smart Plus|Smart Plus]]|| - ||You gain two talents from the Smart hero’s talent trees.
|-
|[[Spacer|Spacer]]|| - ||+2 bonus on Computer Use checks made to use onboard spacecraft computer systems.
|-
|[[Starship Battle Run|Starship Battle Run]]|| - ||When using an attack action with a starship ranged weapon, you can move both before and after the attack
|-
|[[Starship Dodge|Starship Dodge]]|| - ||+1 dodge bonus to your ship’s Defense against attacks.
|-
|[[Starship Feint|Starship Feint]]|| - ||+2 bonus on Bluff checks made to feint in starship combat.
|-
|[[Starship Gunnery|Starship Gunnery]]|| - ||You do not take a penalty on attack rolls when firing a starship weapon.
|-
|[[Starship Mobility|Starship Mobility]]|| - ||+4 dodge bonus to your ship’s Defense against attacks of opportunity caused when you move out of or within a starship’s threatened area.
|-
|[[Starship Operation|Starship Operation]]|| - ||When operating a starship of the selected type, you take no penalty on Pilot checks made when operating the starship.
|-
|[[Starship Strafe|Starship Strafe]]|| - ||When using a starship’s ranged weapon on autofire, you can affect an area four 500-foot squares long and one 500-foot square wide.
|-
|[[Strong Plus|Strong Plus]]|| - ||You gain two talents from the Strong hero’s talent trees.
|-
|[[Tough Plus|Tough Plus]]|| - ||You gain two talents from the Tough hero’s talent trees.
|-
|[[Quick Draw|Quick Draw]]|| - ||The character can draw a weapon as a free action.
|-
|[[Quick Reload|Quick Reload]]|| - ||Reloading a firearm with an already filled box magazine or speed loader is a free action.
|-
|[[Renown|Renown]]|| - ||The character’s Reputation bonus increases by +3.
|-
|[[Run|Run]]|| - ||When running, the character moves a maximum of five times his or her normal speed instead of four times.
|-
|[[Shot on the Run|Shot on the Run]]|| Dexterity 13, Point Blank Shot, Dodge, Mobility.|| When using an attack action with a ranged weapon, the character can move both before and after the attack.
|-
|[[Skip Shot|Skip Shot]]|| Point Blank Shot, Precise Shot.|| Character may ignore cover between the character and the target in certain conditions.
|-
|[[Spring Attack|Spring Attack]]|| Dexterity 13, Dodge, Mobility, base attack bonus +4.|| When using an attack action with a melee weapon, the character can move both before and after the attack.(This breaks current combat rules)
|-
|[[Stealthy|Stealthy]]|| - ||+2 bonus on all Hide checks and Move Silently checks.
|-
|[[Strafe|Strafe]]|| Simple Firearms Proficiency, Advanced Firearms Proficiency.|| When using a firearm on autofire, the character can affect an area four 5-foot squares long and one square wide.
|-
|[[Streetfighting|Streetfighting]]|| Brawl, base attack bonus +2.|| Character can deal an extra 1d4 points of damage under certain conditions.
|-
|[[Studious|Studious]]|| - ||+2 bonus on all Decipher Script checks and Study checks.
|-
|[[Sunder|Sunder]]|| Strength 13, Power Attack.|| When attempting to sunder CMO the character does not provoke an attack of opportunity.
|-
|[[Surface Vehicle Operation|Surface Vehicle Operation]]|| - ||The character takes no penalty on Drive checks or attack rolls made when operating a surface vehicle of the selected class.
|-
|[[Surgery|Surgery]]|| - ||The character can use the Treat Injury skill to perform surgery without penalty.
|-
| [[TechniqueNoice|Technique, Novice]]|| - || A Character can use Level 0 Techniques infinitely.
|-
| [[TechniqueAdvance|Technique, Advance]]|| Novice Technique || A Character can sacrifice a higher level technique to be able able to use another lower level technique.
|-
| [[TechniqueMaster|Technique, Master]]|| Advance Technique || Techniques that use Advance Class level to modify stats now uses Character level.
|-
|[[Toughness|Toughness]]|| - ||The character gains +3 hit points.
|-
|[[Track|Track]]|| - ||A character can take an extra survival check when tracking
|-
|[[Trustworthy|Trustworthy]]|| - ||+2 bonus on all Diplomacy checks.
|-
|[[Two-Weapon Fighting|Two-Weapon Fighting]]|| - ||The character’s penalties for fighting with two weapons are lessened.
|-
|[[Unbalance Opponent|Unbalance Opponent]]|| Defensive Martial Arts, base attack bonus +6.|| A target opponent no longer gets to add Str modifier to attack roles when targeting you.
|-
|[[Vehicle Dodge|Vehicle Dodge]]|| Dexterity 13, Drive 6 ranks or Pilot 6 ranks, Vehicle Expert.|| +1 dodge bonus to Defense against attacks while in vehicle.
|-
|[[Vehicle Expert|Vehicle Expert]]|| - ||+2 bonus on all Pilot checks.
|-
| [[ArchaicWeaponsPro|Weapons, Archaic Proficiency]] || - || The Character doesn't take a -4 when using archaic weapons (both melee and ranged)
|-
| [[ExoticWeaponsPro|Weapons, Exotic Proficiency]] || - || The Character doesn't take a -4 when using exotic weapons (both melee and ranged)
|-
|[[Weapon Finesse|Weapon Finesse]]|| Proficient with weapon, base attack bonus +1.|| Use Dexterity modifier instead of Strength modifier on attack rolls.
|-
|[[Weapon Focus|Weapon Focus]]|| Proficient with weapon, base attack bonus +1.||+1 bonus on all attack rolls he or she makes using the selected weapon.
|-
|[[Whirlwind Attack|Whirlwind Attack]]|| Dexterity 13, Intelligence 13, Dodge, Mobility, Spring Attack, Combat Expertise, base attack bonus +4.||Make one melee attack at the character’s highest base attack bonus against each adjacent opponent.
|-
|[[Wild Talent|Wild Talent]] || - ||Select one 0-level psionic power.
|-
|[[Windfall|Windfall]]|| - ||The character’s Credit bonus increases by +3.
|-
|[[Ulta Immune System|Ulta Immune System]]|| - ||You gain a +2 bonus on Constitution saving throws to resist poisons, diseases, and radiation sickness.
|-
|[[Urban Tracking|Urban Tracking]]|| - ||You can use Diplomacy checks to track down and individual.
|-
|[[Xenomedic|Xenomedic]]|| Knowledge (earth and life sciences) 6 ranks, Treat Injury 6 ranks, Surgery.||Use the Treat Injury skill on a living creature regardless of its type, without penalty.
|-
|[[Zero-G Training|Zero-G Training]]|| Dexterity 13, Tumble 4 ranks.|| You take no penalty on attack rolls in low-gravity or zero-gravity environments.
|-
|}

==Old Rules: We may be using some of these feats or remaking them later==

These feats are in addition to the Pathfinder Roleplaying Game core rules and can be used by any class.

Modern firearms are considered to be advanced firearms in reference to any other core feats.
{| class="wikitable"
! style="text-algin:left;"|Feat
! Prerequisite
! Benefit

|-
|Brawl||-||+1 CMB & CMD; 1d6 non-lethal damage unarmed strike
|-
|Builder||-||+2 bonus on all Craft skill checks and make checks untrained
|-
|Business Savvy||-||+2 on Knowledge (business) & Knowledge (civics)
|-
|Cautious||-||+2 Craft (explosives) & Disable Device
|-
|Computer Backdoor||Know (technology) 1 rank||Install a hidden computer code
|-
|Computer Charm||Know (technology) 1 rank||Add Knowledge (technology) to Charisma checks
|-
|Computer Code Monkey||Know (technology) 1 rank||Read and write computer code
|-
|Computer False Trail||Know (technology) 1 rank||Implement a computer false trail
|-
|Computer Stealth||Know (technology) 1 rank||Hide from computer security
|-
|Confident||-||+2 on all Intimidate and Profession (gamble)
|-
|Creative||-||+2 bonus on all Perform skill checks and make checks untrained
|-
|Critical Brawl||Brawl||Unarmed strike improves to 19-20
|-
|Drive-By Attack||Profession (driver, pilot, or sailor)||No vehicle speed penalty when attacking in a moving vehicle
|-
|Educated||-||+2 bonus on two Knowledge skill checks
|-
|Elusive Target||Dex 13+||+2 dodge bonus to AC against ranged attacks.
|-
|Fleet of Foot||Run||You can turn corners without losing momentum.
|-
|Focused||-||+2 bonus on all Appraise and Perception checks
|-
|Force Stop||Profession (driver) 2 ranks||Force another vehicle to a stop
|-
|Gear Head||-||+2 bonus on Craft (electronic) & Craft (mechanical)
|-
|Guide||-||+2 bonus on all Knowledge (geography) & Knowledge (nature)
|-
|Improved Brawl||Brawl||+2 CMB; 1d8 non-lethal damage with unarmed strike.
|-
|Improved Critical Brawl||Critical Brawl||Unarmed critical strikes deal extra damage
|-
|Improved Knockout Punch||Knockout Punch||Non-lethal unarmed strike critical does triple damage
|-
|Knockout Punch||Brawl||Non-lethal damage unarmed strike is automatic critical
|-
|Medical Expert||-||+2 bonus on all Craft (pharmaceutical) and Heal checks
|-
|Nimble||-||+2 bonus on all Escape Artist and Sleight of Hand
|-
|Street Fighting||Brawl||+1d4 damage 1 per round with unarmed attack or light weapon
|-
|Studious||-||+2 bonus on all Linguistics and Perception checks
|-
|Surgery||Heal 2 ranks||Use the Heal skill to perform surgery
|-
|Talented||Modern Hero Class Only||You gain a Talent from the Modern Hero Class
|-
|Tracker||-||+2 bonus to Perception and Survival skill
|-
|Trustworthy||-||+2 bonus on all Diplomacy checks and Bluff checks
|-
|Unbalance Opponent||Brawl||Opponent doesn't get to add Strength modifier to hit
|-
|Vehicle Dodge||Profession (driver, pilot, or sailor)||+2 dodge to Defense against attacks from a vehicle
|-
|Vehicle Expert||-||Add Dex modifier to Profession (driver, pilot, or sailor)
|-
|Vehicle Specialization||De.||+3 bonus on Profession (driver, pilot, or sailor) checks
|}

== Detailed Feat Descriptions ==

;Brawl

The character knows how to fight unarmed, dealing greater damage with his hands and feet.

:'''Benefit''': You gain a +1 bonus on your CMB and CMD. Unarmed attack nonlethal damage increases to 1d6 + Strength modifier.

Normal: Unarmed attacks normally deal nonlethal damage equal to 1d3 + Strength modifier.
;Builder

The character can create useful items and structures with the right tools.

:'''Benefit''': You gain a +2 bonus on all Craft skill checks and can make checks with those skills untrained.
;Business Savvy

The character knows his way around the office, boardroom and sales floor of the business world.

:'''Benefit''': You gain a +2 bonus to Knowledge (civics) and Knowledge (business.)

If you have 10 or more ranks in one of these skills, the bonus increases to +4 for that skill.
;Cautious

The character understands that delicate devices require a patient touch.

:'''Benefit''': You gain a +2 bonus on Craft (explosives) and Disable Device.

If you have 10 or more ranks in one of these skills, the bonus increases to +4 for that skill.
;Computer Backdoor

:'''Prerequisite''': Knowledge (technology) 1 rank.

:'''Benefit''': Install a hidden computer code.

After successfully breaking into a specific computer system, the character can install a “backdoor,” a piece of code making it easier to break into that particular system in the future. Writing and installing the program requires a Knowledge (technology) check (see chart below) but once successfully installed it automatically defeats that system's security upon return trips.
{| class="wikitable"
! style="text-algin:left;"|Level of Security
! DC

|-
|Minimum||25
|-
|Average||30
|-
|Exceptional||40
|-
|Maximum||45
|}

It is important to keep backdoors hidden from the system administrator, who is always on the lookout for such invasions. A backdoor automatically allows the character entrance to a particular system, but every time he uses it he must make an opposed Knowledge (technology) check against the administrator. Failure means the backdoor is discovered and will be deleted before the next time the character returns.
{| class="wikitable"
! style="text-algin:left;"|System Admin Attitude
! Knowledge (tech) Modifier

|-
|Lazy/Overconfident||-4
|-
|Indifferent||-2
|-
|Competent||0
|-
|Proactive||+2
|-
|Aggressive||+4
|}

;Computer Charm

:'''Prerequisite''': Knowledge (technology) 1 rank.

:'''Benefit''': Add Knowledge (technology) to Charisma checks.

When attempting to use a Charisma based skill such a Bluff, Intimidate, or Diplomacy in an online situation, the character adds his Knowledge (technology) skill ranks as a bonus.
;Computer Code Monkey

:'''Prerequisite''': Knowledge (technology) 1 rank.

:'''Benefit''': Read and write computer code.

The character can understand both the nature of raw computer code and what the program is intended to accomplish when implemented.

On a successful Knowledge (technology) check (DC 10 + Knowledge (technology) skill modifier of the code's author) the character can determine both the function of the program and any bugs or potential weak points in the design.

If weak points are found, the character gains a +2 insight bonus on Knowledge (technology) checks attempting to degrade the program
;Computer False Trail

:'''Prerequisite''': Knowledge (technology) 1 rank.

:'''Benefit''': Implement a computer false trail.

When covering his electronically tracks through the internet, the character can lay in a false trail.

With a successful Knowledge (technology) DC 25 check, the character imposes a –5 penalty on any attempt to trace him (as described in the Defend Security function of the Knowledge (technology) skill.

If the trace fails by 10 or more points, the tracker follows the character's false trail to an innocent internet address. If the trace fails by less than 10 points, the tracker immediately realizes the trail is bogus and can make a new check.
;Computer Stealth

:'''Prerequisite''': Knowledge (technology) 1 rank.

:'''Benefit''': Hide from computer security.

When the character attempts to defeat computer security, the administrator is alerted only if the character fails his Knowledge (technology) check by 10 or more.
;Confident

The character excels at Intimidation and Gambling.

:'''Benefit''': You gain a +2 bonus on Intimidate and Profession (gambler.)

If you have 10 or more ranks in one of these skills, the bonus increases to +4 for that skill.
;Creative

The character has an eye for art, an ear for music and a gift to entertain.

:'''Benefit''': You gain a +2 bonus on all Perform skill checks and can make checks with those skills untrained.
;Critical Brawl

The character's unarmed strikes have a higher threat range.

:'''Prerequisite''': Brawl.

:'''Benefit''': The character's threat range on an unarmed strike improves to 19-20.

Normal: A character without this feat threatens a critical hit with an unarmed strike only on a 20.
;Drive-By Attack

While operating a vehicle, you can move, strike at a foe and then continue moving.

:'''Prerequisite''': 1 rank in Profession (driver, pilot, or sailor.)

:'''Benefit''': If the character is the operator of the vehicle, he or he can take a standard action at any point along the vehicle's movement.
;Educated

The character has received schooling on a variety of subjects.

:'''Benefit''': You gain a +2 bonus on all Knowledge skill checks and can make checks with those skills untrained.
;Elusive Target

The character gains a +4 dodge bonus to AC against ranged attacks.

:'''Prerequisite''': Dex 13+ required.

:'''Benefit''': You gain a +4 dodge bonus to AC against ranged attacks.
;Fleet of Foot

The character can turn corners without losing momentum.

:'''Prerequisite''': Run.

:'''Benefit''': When running or charging, you can make a single direction change of 90° or less.

Normal: Without this feat, you can run or charge only in a straight line.
;Focused

The character is very perceptive and examines things closely.

:'''Benefit''': You gain +2 bonus on Appraise and Perception.

If you have 10 or more ranks in one of these skills, the bonus increases to +4 for that skill.
;Force Stop

When operating a vehicle, the character can force another vehicle to a stop.

:'''Prerequisite''': 2 ranks in Profession (driver.)

:'''Benefit''': When the character attempts a sideswipe stunt with a land based vehicle, you can force the other vehicle to a stop by nudging it into a controlled sideways skid. In addition to the normal requirements for attempting a sideswipe stunt, the character must have sufficient movement remaining to move a number of squares equal to the character's turn number.

After succeeding on the check to attempt the sideswipe, the character makes a Profession (driver) check opposed by the other driver. If the character succeeds, turn the other vehicle 90 degrees across the front of the characters, so that they form a tee.

Move them forward a distance equal to the character's Profession (driver) total ranks. The vehicles end their movement at that location, at stationary speed and take their normal sideswipe damage.
;Gear Head

The character excels at working on electronic & mechanical items.

:'''Benefit''': You gain a +2 bonus on Craft (electronic & mechanical.)

If you have 10 or more ranks in one of these skills, the bonus increases to +4 for that skill.
;Guide

The character knows the lay of the land.

:'''Benefit''': You gain +2 bonus on Knowledge (geography & nature.)

If you have 10 or more ranks in one of these skills, the bonus increases to +4 for that skill.
;Improved Brawl

The character knows how to fight unarmed, dealing greater damage with his hands and feet.

:'''Prerequisite''': Brawl.

:'''Benefit''': You gain a +2 bonus on your CMB and the character deals nonlethal damage equal to 1d8 + the character's Strength modifier.

Normal: Unarmed attacks normally deal nonlethal damage equal to 1d3 + Strength modifier.
;Improved Critical Brawl

The character's unarmed critical strikes deal extra damage.

:'''Prerequisite''': Critical Brawl.

:'''Benefit''': When the character scores a critical hit on an opponent with an unarmed strike, the character deals triple damage.

Normal: An unarmed strike critical hit deals double damage.
;Knockout Punch

The character can deliver a non-lethal, unarmed strike that does some serious damage.

:'''Prerequisite''': Brawl.

:'''Benefit''': When making the character's first unarmed attack, treat a successful attack as a critical hit. This damage is nonlethal damage.

:'''Special''': Even if the character has the ability to treat unarmed damage as lethal damage, the damage from a knockout punch is always nonlethal.
;Medical Expert

The character has been trained in the areas of pharmaceuticals and the medical care of others.

:'''Benefit''': You gain a +2 bonus on Craft (pharmaceutical) and Heal.

If you have 10 or more ranks in one of these skills, the bonus increases to +4 for that skill.
;Nimble

The character is adept at slipping through bonds and hiding things in plain sight.

:'''Benefit''': You gain a +2 bonus on Escape Artist and Sleight of Hand.

If you have 10 or more ranks in one of these skills, the bonus increases to +4 for that skill.
;Street Fighting

The character has picked up a few dirty tricks along the way that make hits hurt just a little more.

:'''Prerequisite''': Brawl.

:'''Benefit''': Once per round, if the character makes a successful melee attack with an unarmed strike or a light weapon, the character deals an extra 1d4 points of damage.
;Studious

The character has spent many hours studying academia and is quick to pick up new information.

:'''Benefit''': You gain a +2 bonus on Linguistics and Perception.

If you have 10 or more ranks in one of these skills, the bonus increases to +4 for that skill.
;Surgery

Use the Heal skill to perform surgery.

:'''Prerequisite''': 2 ranks in the skill Heal.

:'''Benefit''': With a surgery kit, a character can conduct field surgery with a successful Heal skill check.

;Surgery requires 1d4 hours; if the patient is at negative hit points, add an additional hour for every point below 0 the patient has fallen.

Each 1d6 of healing adds a + 1 to the DC modifier.

The DC is 10 + 1 per d6 of healing.

The surgeon can restore up to the patient's full normal total of hit points, with a successful skill check.

;Surgery can only be used successfully on a character once in a 24-hour period.
;Talented

You gain a Talent from the Modern Hero Class.

:'''Prerequisite''': Modern Hero Class Only.

:'''Benefit''': You gain a Talent from the Modern Hero Class.
;Tracker

The character gains a +2 bonus to the Perception and Survival skill.

:'''Benefit''': You gain a +2 bonus to Perception and Survival.

If you have 10 or more ranks in one of these skills, the bonus increases to +4 for that skill.
;Trustworthy

The character gains a +2 bonus on all Diplomacy checks and Bluff checks.

:'''Benefit''': You gain a +2 bonus on Diplomacy and Bluff.

If you have 10 or more ranks in one of these skills, the bonus increases to +4 for that skill.
;Unbalance Opponent

Opponent doesn't add Strength to attack, CMB and CMD against the character.

:'''Prerequisite''': Brawl.

:'''Benefit''': You can, with a successful combat maneuver, deny an opponent his Strength bonus to his attack rolls, CMB and CMD, for one round. This will not function on opponents a size category larger or more than you.
;Vehicle Dodge

The character gains a +2 dodge to his vehicle's Armor Class.

:'''Prerequisite''': 1 rank in skill Profession (driver, pilot, or sailor.)

:'''Benefit''': When operating a vehicle, the character's vehicle and everyone aboard, receives a +2 dodge bonus to AC.
;Vehicle Expert

The character can add his Dexterity modifier to his Profession (driver, pilot, or sailor).

:'''Prerequisite''': Dexterity.

:'''Benefit''': You can add your Dexterity modifier to Profession (driver, pilot, or sailor) when making a check involving a vehicle. This will increase all vehicle base stats including the vehicle's AC.
;Vehicle Specialization

The character gains a +3 bonus on Profession (driver, pilot, or sailor).

:'''Prerequisite''': 1 rank in skill Profession (driver, pilot, or sailor).

:'''Benefit''': You gain a +3 bonus to a Profession (driver, pilot, or sailor) in one make/model of vehicle when making a check involving that vehicle.

If you have 10 or more ranks in one of these skills, the bonus increases to +6 for that skill.

SkillsBasics

2016-01-16T00:39:40Z

173.203.4.162: /* Ability Checks */

Below is the rules for the use of skills in the game. Skills can seam daunting at first. However realize that not all skills or skill rules will apply too your character. It is unlikely that you will ever use all the skills available for even a fully leveled up character. If you want to review the skills themselves a list of all skills can be found in the [[Skills|Skills]] section.

== All About Skills ==
Skills are common abilities or groups of abilities considered to be actions that the Character can before in game. All skills are associated with an ability score. A d20 is rolled to determine the output of any skill action. Players add bonuses to the d20 roll in the form of d20 + Skill Ranks + Associated Ability Modifier + Misc Mods. Ranks in a skill shows that a Character has trained to get better at that skill. For example the Skill Athletics represents a set of different actions like "Swimming", "Jumping", "Climbing" and so on. They all fall under the Ability of Strength.

Skill checks are usually against some Difficulty Class or DC. Usually this number is predetermined by the GM using rules in the [[Skills|Skills]] section. However skills sometimes may also be against other skills. Such as someones Stealth check may be used as the DC for someone's Perception check.

At each level including level one, a character gets skill points that can be spent to buy ranks in a skill. The character's [[Future_Hero_Base_Class|Base Class]] and Intelligence modifier determines the number of points per level a character gets. The minimum is 1 even if the Intelligence modifier is a negative. The Player can choose not to spend a skill point until the next level. Meaning any unspent skill points roll over to the next level. The maximum rank a skill can have is the level of the Character.

All skills have certain attributes.
# Class/Non-Class
# Natural/Unnatural
# Trained/Untrained
# Rank Dependent

The different attributes will be explained in more detail below:

=== Class Skills ===

In addition to other customizations, each class has a number of favored skills, called class skills. It is easier for your character to become more proficient in these skills, as they represent part of his professional training and constant practice. There are several advantages too class skills. First all class skills are considered to also be trained even if you do not have a rank in it. Secondly in order to add ranks to a class skill the Player only needs to spend one skill point. All non-class skills require two skill points to gain a single rank.

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Modifying Character Sheet: To record what skills are class skills on your character sheet there is a check box on the far left of the skill in question. There are actually two little check boxes. The first box to the left of the skill name is for recording if the skill has been Trained by spending a point in it. (More on Trained/Untrained in the following section). However the next box over is where you can record that the skill is indeed a class skill.
</pre>

=== Natural/Unnatural ===

Skills can either be Natural implying that the average person in the Future Path universe knows how to perform this particular action or unnatural implying that it requires training before use. For example the Skill Perception is a Natural skill. Being able to perceive the environment around yourself using some form of sense. Like smell, site, sound or others. This should come Natural to people. However there are also Unnatural skills. Such as crafting. Crafting is not something that a person is just born knowing how to do. And even if the knowledge was implanted genetically that knowledge came from somewhere first.

The difference is that Natural skills do not require that the be Trained first. (More on Training in the section below) Unnatural skills cannot be used at all unless the Character trains in that skill first. Even though Natural skills can be used without being Trained that do not get a bonus from there associated Ability Mod until they are trained.

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Character Sheet: On the Character sheet skills that are Unnatural are identified with a '*' next too there name. You can also see by looking at the Skills page.
</pre>

=== Trained/Untrained ===

Unnatural skills require training before use. Training a skill requires a single skill point. Natural skills do not require training too use but without training a Character cannot apply his/her associated ability modifier. All class skills are automatically considered trained.

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Modifying Character Sheet: To denote that a skill is Trained there is a small check box to the left of the skill in question. To the right of the the class skill check box. You can use that check box to record that you have Trained the skill. However to show what a skill type is you do not need to edit the character sheet. Skill types are a predetermined part of the game rules. The character sheet denotes trained skills from natural skills with a '*' next to the skill name.
</pre>

=== Rank Dependent Skills ===

The third and finial type of skill is "Rank Dependent". All "Rank Dependent" skills are considered to also be Unnatural. See the above section "Natural/Unnatural" for more on that. All Rank Dependent skills means is that the best possible outcome is predetermined by the rank of the skill. This does not effect the Difficulty of the task. The target "DC" is still the same. The best way to explain is with the Language skill which is considered Rank Dependent. If you have a skill rank of 5 in "Common Human" it means that you are fluent in it. You may not completely sound native but you will likely fool most. Another player only has a skill rank of 1 in "Common Human". That Player is just learning to speak/write and understand that language. If you are simply handed a paper or holo message in Human language that happens to be garbled. You must roll a Skill check to see if you can understand the message. The DC is the same 15 for both players. Not only does the first player with a rank of 5 in that language has a better chance (because the player can add the +5 to his skill check) but his best possible outcome is that he can completely understand the message. However the best possible outcome for the player with only 1 rank is only a word here or there. The DC is the same for both. But the outcome if they succeed is different.

This means that ranks in some skills will matter more. It may become more important. A full list of skills that are Rank Dependent is below:

# [[Craft|Craft]]
# [[Perform|Perform]]
# [[Language|Language]]
# [[Tech|Tech]]

== Using Skills ==
Using a skill is as simple as rolling a d20 and adding the Skill Mod Total.

'''1d20 + Skill Modifier Total'''

(Skill Modifier = Skill Ranks + Ability Modifier + Miscellaneous Modifiers)

However there are several side notes too consider.
# Is this skill usable in combat?
# If I use this skill in combat does this provoke an Attack of Opportunity
# How long does it take to use this Skill?
# If I fail what is the consequences? Can I try again?

The above questions are all answered on a per skill biases on the [[Skills|Skills]] page. Luckily Characters at level 1 usually only have a few skills so learning how to use a skill isn't difficult if you are a Player. However if you are the GM you should review all the skills in the [[Skills|Skills]] page before game play. You may also want to record what skills each player has.

;Skill Ranks: A character’s ranks in a skill is based on the number of skill points the character has invested in the skill. Some skills can be used even if the character has no ranks in the skill; doing this is known as making an untrained skill check. Remember that this can be only done with "natural" skills. And a character can only add ability modifiers to a skill if it is 'Trained'.

;Ability Modifier: The ability modifier used in the skill check is the modifier of the skill’s key ability (the ability associated with the skill’s use). The key ability of a skill is noted in its description. Here is also a list of skills by their ability:

:: '''Strength''':
* [[Athletics|Athletics]]
:: '''Dexterity''':
* [[Acrobatics|Acrobatics]], [[Drive|Drive]], [[Escape Artist|Escape Artist]], [[Pilot|Pilot]], [[Ride|Ride]], [[Sleight of Hand|Sleight of Hand]], [[Stealth|Stealth]]
:: '''Constitution''':
* None
:: '''Intelligence''':
* [[Computer Use|Computer Use]], [[Craft|Craft]], [[Decipher Script|Decipher Script]], [[Demolitions|Demolitions]], [[Disable Device|Disable Device]], [[Knowledge|Knowledge]], [[Study|Study]]
:: '''Wisdom''':
* [[Perception|Perception]], [[Profession|Profession]], [[Sense Motive|Sense Motive]], [[Survival|Survival]], [[Treat Injury|Treat Injury]]
; '''Charisma''':
* [[Bluff|Bluff]], [[Diplomacy|Diplomacy]], [[Disguise|Disguise]], [[Handle Animal|Handle Animal]], [[Intimidate|Intimidate]], [[Perform|Perform]]

;Miscellaneous Modifiers: Miscellaneous modifiers include bonuses provided by feats, class features and species. Miscellaneous may also include disadvantages such as the ones associated with the non-proficient use of armor, among others.

=== Skill Checks ===
When your character uses a skill, he isn't guaranteed success. In order to determine success, whenever you attempt to use a skill, you must make a skill check. Unlike with attack rolls and saving throws, a natural roll of 20 on the d20 is not an automatic success when making a skill check, and a natural roll of 1 is not an automatic failure.

Each skill rank grants a +1 bonus on checks made using that skill. When you make a skill check, you roll 1d20 and then add your ranks and the appropriate ability score modifier to the result of this check. If your ability score provides a penalty instead of a bonus it takes effect no matter if the skill is Trained or not. Skills can be further modified by a wide variety of sources, by your species, by a class ability, by equipment, by technological effects or items, and so on.

If the result of your skill check is equal to or greater than the Difficulty Class (or DC) of the task you are attempting to accomplish, you succeed. If it is less than the DC, you fail. Some tasks have varying levels of success and failure depending on how much your check is above or below the required DC. Some skill checks are opposed by the target's skill check. When making an opposed skill check, the attempt is successful if your check result exceeds the result of the target.

==== Trying Again ====
If a character fails on a skill check, he or she can sometimes try again. Check the skill description to find out if, and under what circumstances, a character can try again. Many skills, however, have natural consequences for failing that must be accounted for. Some skills can’t be tried again once a check has failed for a particular task. If the use of a skill carries no penalty for failure, a character can take 20 and assume that he or she keeps trying until he or she eventually succeeds.

A skill check usually takes 1 to 2 minutes of in game time. So why not just keep rolling till you succeed? Well firstly it does take up time. Think of the game play like a movie. There are scenes and the characters in those scenes often do not have time to spend wasting about. The GM should consider the time the Player is spending attempting the skill checks. Also sometimes the GM may setup ambushes or other actions. The GM can set a time limit which is usually just 2 minutes. That gives the players enough time to preform the check before the next scene occurs.

==== Taking 10 and Taking 20 ====
A skill check represents an attempt to accomplish some goal, usually while under some sort of time pressure or distraction. Sometimes, though, a character can use a skill under more favorable conditions, increasing the odds of success. A character cannot take 10 or 20 if they do not have the time in game. The Player must also be aware of the time within the game. Taking 10 or 20 means actually taking 10 or 20 minutes to preform the action associated with the skill. They must be willing to spend that amount of time doing just that and nothing else. (Except for talking too other Characters)

;Taking 10

: When your character is not in immediate danger or distracted, you may choose to take 10. Instead of rolling 1d20 for the skill check, calculate your result as if you had rolled a 10. For many routine tasks, taking 10 makes them automatically successful. Distractions or threats (such as combat) make it impossible for a character to take 10. In most cases, taking 10 is purely a safety measure—you know (or expect) that an average roll will succeed but fear that a poor roll might fail, so you elect to settle for the average roll (a 10). Taking 10 is especially useful in situations where a particularly high roll wouldn't help.

;Taking 20

: When you have plenty of time, you are faced with no threats or distractions, and the skill being attempted carries no penalties for failure, you can take 20. In other words, if you a d20 roll enough times, eventually you will get a 20. Instead of rolling 1d20 for the skill check, just calculate your result as if you had rolled a 20.

: Taking 20 means you are trying until you get it right, and it assumes that you fail many times before succeeding. Taking 20 takes 20 times as long as making a single check would take (usually 2 minutes for a skill that takes 1 round or less to perform).

: Since taking 20 assumes that your character will fail many times before succeeding, your character would automatically incur any penalties for failure before he or she could complete the task (hence why it is generally not allowed with skills that carry such penalties). Common “take 20” skills include Disable Device (when used to open locks), Escape Artist, and Perception (when attempting to find traps).

;Ability Checks
: The normal take 10 and take 20 rules apply for ability checks.

=== Aiding Another ===
In some situations, characters can cooperate to accomplish a given task. One character is designated as the leader in the effort, while the others try to aid the character in his or her efforts. A character aids another by making a skill check (DC 10). This is a standard action if done in combat, and the character can’t take 10 or 20 on this check. If the check succeeds, the character’s ally gains a Moderate +2 circumstance bonus to apply to his or her skill check to complete the task. The attempt to aid can only occur if the helping character can also preform the same skill. Unless they have a feat or class talent that says otherwise.

In some cases, a character’s help won’t be beneficial, or only a limited number of characters can help at the same time. The GM limits the number of other characters can aid as he or she sees fit for the conditions. A general rule of thumb is 1 additional Character can help. The GM may find that some tasks can be large enough that it would be reasonable for more Characters to help.

Aiding and dividing up a task are two different things. Dividing up a task means that all Characters preform a section of the work and all have to succeed in order for a successful outcome. Crafting large items such as structures is an example of when tasks can be divided up.

Another scenario is cooperative work. This is when all characters can preform the same task and roll each on there own however not all have to be successful for a positive outcome. An example of this would be searching a room for clues. Each Player rolls a Perception skill check for there respected Characters but only one has to be successful at spotting the clue.

=== Difficulty Class ===
Some checks are made against a Difficulty Class (DC). The DC is a number set by the GM (using the skill rules as a guideline) that a character must attain to succeed. Difficulty Class is the opposing number that is compared to the finial number after the modifiers are added too the roll. This DC is used not only for skills but for other rolls as well such as Saving throws.

{| class="wikitable"
|+Table: Difficulty Class Examples:
! style="text-algin:left;"|Difficulty (DC)
! Example (Skill Used)

|-
| Very easy (0)||Notice something large in plain sight (Perception)
|-
| Easy (5)||Climb a knotted rope (Athletics: Climb)
|-
| Average (10)||Hear an approaching security guard (Perception)
|-
| Tough (15)||Disarm an explosive (Demolitions)
|-
| Challenging (20)||Swim against a strong current (Athletics: Swim)
|-
| Formidable (25)||Break into a secure computer system (Computer Use)
|-
| Heroic (30)||Leap across a 30-foot chasm (Athletics: Jump)
|-
| Superheroic (35)||Convince the guards that even though you’re not wearing an ID badge and aren’t on their list, they should let you into the building (Bluff)
|-
| Nearly impossible (40)||Track a trained commando through the an alien forests on an overcast night after 12 days of rainfall (Survival)
|}

=== Opposed Checks ===
Some skill checks are opposed checks. They are made against a randomized number, usually another character’s skill check result.
For ties on opposed checks, the character with the higher key ability score wins. If those scores are the same, roll again.

{| class="wikitable"
|+Table: Example Opposed Checks::
! style="text-algin:left;"|Task
! Skill
! Opposing Skill

|-
| Sneak up on someone||Stealth||Perception
|-
| Con someone||Bluff||Sense Motive
|-
| Hide from someone||Stealth||Perception
|-
| Win a car race||Drive||Drive
|-
| Pretend to be someone else||Disguise||Perception
|-
| Steal a key chain||Sleight of Hand||Perception
|-
| Create a fake ID||Language||Perception
|}

=== Favorable and Unfavorable Conditions ===
Some situations may make a skill easier or harder to use, resulting in a bonus or penalty to the skill modifier or a change to the skill check’s DC. This comes in the form of the Advantage and Disadvantage system.
The GM can alter the odds of success in four ways to take into account exceptional circumstances:
# Give the skill user a Moderate +2 circumstance bonus to represent conditions that improve performance, such as having the perfect tool for the job, getting help from another character, or working under conditions that are significantly better than normal.
# Give the skill user a Moderate –2 circumstance penalty to represent conditions that hamper performance, such as being forced to use improvised tools or possessing misleading information.
# Reduce the DC by 2 to represent circumstances that make the task easier, such as having a friendly audience when making a Perform check or searching for information on an extremely well documented topic with a Computer Use check.
# Increase the DC by 2 to represent circumstances that make the task harder, such as making a Perform check in front of a hostile audience or searching for information on a very poorly documented topic with a Computer Use check.

Conditions that affect a character’s ability to perform the skill change the character’s skill modifier. Conditions that modify how well the character must perform the skill to succeed change the DC. A bonus on a character’s skill modifier or a reduction in the DC of the check have the same result—they create a better chance for success. But they represent different circumstances, and sometimes that difference is important. Changing the Character's Ability/Skill is considered an Advantage/Disadvantage and the rules for applying these changes take effect. However adjusting DC can be done secretly at the discretion of the GM and does not have to follow the Advantage/Disadvantage rules.

=== Time and Skill Checks ===
Using a skill might take a round, several rounds, or even longer. It might take no time at all. Types of actions define how long activities take to perform within the framework of a combat round (3 seconds) and how movement is treated with respect to the activity. See the skill description for specifies on how long a skill takes to use.

In general, using a skill that requires concentration while in close combat is dangerous will provoke an Attack of Opportunity against a character when he or she lets his or her guard down. To learn more please visit the [[Combat|Combat]] page.

=== Tools ===
Some skill applications require the use of tools. If tools are needed, the specific items required are mentioned in the skill description. If the character doesn’t have the appropriate tools, he or she can still attempt to use the skill, but the character takes a Major –4 disadvantage on his or her check.

A character may be able to put together some impromptu tools to make the check. If the GM allows it, reduce the penalty to Moderate –2 (instead of –4) for using impromptu tools. It usually takes some time (several minutes to an hour or more) to collect or create a set of impromptu tools, and it may require a skill check as well.

=== Skill Synergy ===
Sometimes, the GM may decide that having one skill provides a bonus when a character uses another skill in certain situations. The character must have at least 5 ranks in the related skill to gain this synergy bonus, and the GM must agree that the two skills can complement each other in the given situation. In such cases, the character receives a Moderate +2 synergy bonus on the skill check. Any additional bonuses must follow the Advantage/Disadvantage rules.

== Ability Checks ==
Sometimes a character tries to do something to which no specific skill applies. In these cases, the character makes an ability check: Roll 1d20 and apply the appropriate ability modifier. The GM assigns a DC, or sets up an opposed check when two characters are engaged in a contest using one ability against another. In some cases, a test of one’s ability doesn’t involve luck. When two characters arm wrestle, for example, the stronger character simply wins. In the case of identical scores, make opposed Strength checks.

Example Ability Checks:
;Strength
: Forcing open a jammed or locked door
;Dexterity
: Tying a rope
;Constitution
: Holding one’s breath
;Intelligence
: Navigating a maze
;Wisdom
: Recognize a person you’ve seen before
;Charisma
: Getting yourself noticed in a crowd

There is also Ability Saves which are explained in the [[Combat|Combat]] section.

== Modifier Types and Stacking ==
A modifier provides a bonus (a positive modifier) or a penalty (a negative modifier) to a die roll. Bonuses with specific descriptors, such as “equipment bonus,” generally don’t stack (combine for cumulative effect) with others of the same type. In those cases, only the best bonus of that type applies. The only specific bonuses that stack are dodge bonuses, synergy bonuses, and sometimes circumstance bonuses. Circumstance bonuses stack only if they’re provided by differing circumstances; if two circumstance bonuses caused by similar circumstances apply, they don’t stack. Specific bonuses that don’t stack include competence, cover, equipment, morale, natural armor, and size.
If the game setting includes magic or other supernatural effects, there can also be deflection, enhancement, enlargement, haste, inherent, insight, luck, profane, resistance, and sacred bonus descriptors. None of these bonuses stack.

Any bonus without a descriptor (such as simply a “+1 bonus”) stacks with other bonuses.

All penalties stack, regardless of their descriptors.

SkillsBasics

2016-01-16T00:38:03Z

173.203.4.162: /* Time and Skill Checks */

Below is the rules for the use of skills in the game. Skills can seam daunting at first. However realize that not all skills or skill rules will apply too your character. It is unlikely that you will ever use all the skills available for even a fully leveled up character. If you want to review the skills themselves a list of all skills can be found in the [[Skills|Skills]] section.

== All About Skills ==
Skills are common abilities or groups of abilities considered to be actions that the Character can before in game. All skills are associated with an ability score. A d20 is rolled to determine the output of any skill action. Players add bonuses to the d20 roll in the form of d20 + Skill Ranks + Associated Ability Modifier + Misc Mods. Ranks in a skill shows that a Character has trained to get better at that skill. For example the Skill Athletics represents a set of different actions like "Swimming", "Jumping", "Climbing" and so on. They all fall under the Ability of Strength.

Skill checks are usually against some Difficulty Class or DC. Usually this number is predetermined by the GM using rules in the [[Skills|Skills]] section. However skills sometimes may also be against other skills. Such as someones Stealth check may be used as the DC for someone's Perception check.

At each level including level one, a character gets skill points that can be spent to buy ranks in a skill. The character's [[Future_Hero_Base_Class|Base Class]] and Intelligence modifier determines the number of points per level a character gets. The minimum is 1 even if the Intelligence modifier is a negative. The Player can choose not to spend a skill point until the next level. Meaning any unspent skill points roll over to the next level. The maximum rank a skill can have is the level of the Character.

All skills have certain attributes.
# Class/Non-Class
# Natural/Unnatural
# Trained/Untrained
# Rank Dependent

The different attributes will be explained in more detail below:

=== Class Skills ===

In addition to other customizations, each class has a number of favored skills, called class skills. It is easier for your character to become more proficient in these skills, as they represent part of his professional training and constant practice. There are several advantages too class skills. First all class skills are considered to also be trained even if you do not have a rank in it. Secondly in order to add ranks to a class skill the Player only needs to spend one skill point. All non-class skills require two skill points to gain a single rank.

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Modifying Character Sheet: To record what skills are class skills on your character sheet there is a check box on the far left of the skill in question. There are actually two little check boxes. The first box to the left of the skill name is for recording if the skill has been Trained by spending a point in it. (More on Trained/Untrained in the following section). However the next box over is where you can record that the skill is indeed a class skill.
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=== Natural/Unnatural ===

Skills can either be Natural implying that the average person in the Future Path universe knows how to perform this particular action or unnatural implying that it requires training before use. For example the Skill Perception is a Natural skill. Being able to perceive the environment around yourself using some form of sense. Like smell, site, sound or others. This should come Natural to people. However there are also Unnatural skills. Such as crafting. Crafting is not something that a person is just born knowing how to do. And even if the knowledge was implanted genetically that knowledge came from somewhere first.

The difference is that Natural skills do not require that the be Trained first. (More on Training in the section below) Unnatural skills cannot be used at all unless the Character trains in that skill first. Even though Natural skills can be used without being Trained that do not get a bonus from there associated Ability Mod until they are trained.

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Character Sheet: On the Character sheet skills that are Unnatural are identified with a '*' next too there name. You can also see by looking at the Skills page.
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=== Trained/Untrained ===

Unnatural skills require training before use. Training a skill requires a single skill point. Natural skills do not require training too use but without training a Character cannot apply his/her associated ability modifier. All class skills are automatically considered trained.

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Modifying Character Sheet: To denote that a skill is Trained there is a small check box to the left of the skill in question. To the right of the the class skill check box. You can use that check box to record that you have Trained the skill. However to show what a skill type is you do not need to edit the character sheet. Skill types are a predetermined part of the game rules. The character sheet denotes trained skills from natural skills with a '*' next to the skill name.
</pre>

=== Rank Dependent Skills ===

The third and finial type of skill is "Rank Dependent". All "Rank Dependent" skills are considered to also be Unnatural. See the above section "Natural/Unnatural" for more on that. All Rank Dependent skills means is that the best possible outcome is predetermined by the rank of the skill. This does not effect the Difficulty of the task. The target "DC" is still the same. The best way to explain is with the Language skill which is considered Rank Dependent. If you have a skill rank of 5 in "Common Human" it means that you are fluent in it. You may not completely sound native but you will likely fool most. Another player only has a skill rank of 1 in "Common Human". That Player is just learning to speak/write and understand that language. If you are simply handed a paper or holo message in Human language that happens to be garbled. You must roll a Skill check to see if you can understand the message. The DC is the same 15 for both players. Not only does the first player with a rank of 5 in that language has a better chance (because the player can add the +5 to his skill check) but his best possible outcome is that he can completely understand the message. However the best possible outcome for the player with only 1 rank is only a word here or there. The DC is the same for both. But the outcome if they succeed is different.

This means that ranks in some skills will matter more. It may become more important. A full list of skills that are Rank Dependent is below:

# [[Craft|Craft]]
# [[Perform|Perform]]
# [[Language|Language]]
# [[Tech|Tech]]

== Using Skills ==
Using a skill is as simple as rolling a d20 and adding the Skill Mod Total.

'''1d20 + Skill Modifier Total'''

(Skill Modifier = Skill Ranks + Ability Modifier + Miscellaneous Modifiers)

However there are several side notes too consider.
# Is this skill usable in combat?
# If I use this skill in combat does this provoke an Attack of Opportunity
# How long does it take to use this Skill?
# If I fail what is the consequences? Can I try again?

The above questions are all answered on a per skill biases on the [[Skills|Skills]] page. Luckily Characters at level 1 usually only have a few skills so learning how to use a skill isn't difficult if you are a Player. However if you are the GM you should review all the skills in the [[Skills|Skills]] page before game play. You may also want to record what skills each player has.

;Skill Ranks: A character’s ranks in a skill is based on the number of skill points the character has invested in the skill. Some skills can be used even if the character has no ranks in the skill; doing this is known as making an untrained skill check. Remember that this can be only done with "natural" skills. And a character can only add ability modifiers to a skill if it is 'Trained'.

;Ability Modifier: The ability modifier used in the skill check is the modifier of the skill’s key ability (the ability associated with the skill’s use). The key ability of a skill is noted in its description. Here is also a list of skills by their ability:

:: '''Strength''':
* [[Athletics|Athletics]]
:: '''Dexterity''':
* [[Acrobatics|Acrobatics]], [[Drive|Drive]], [[Escape Artist|Escape Artist]], [[Pilot|Pilot]], [[Ride|Ride]], [[Sleight of Hand|Sleight of Hand]], [[Stealth|Stealth]]
:: '''Constitution''':
* None
:: '''Intelligence''':
* [[Computer Use|Computer Use]], [[Craft|Craft]], [[Decipher Script|Decipher Script]], [[Demolitions|Demolitions]], [[Disable Device|Disable Device]], [[Knowledge|Knowledge]], [[Study|Study]]
:: '''Wisdom''':
* [[Perception|Perception]], [[Profession|Profession]], [[Sense Motive|Sense Motive]], [[Survival|Survival]], [[Treat Injury|Treat Injury]]
; '''Charisma''':
* [[Bluff|Bluff]], [[Diplomacy|Diplomacy]], [[Disguise|Disguise]], [[Handle Animal|Handle Animal]], [[Intimidate|Intimidate]], [[Perform|Perform]]

;Miscellaneous Modifiers: Miscellaneous modifiers include bonuses provided by feats, class features and species. Miscellaneous may also include disadvantages such as the ones associated with the non-proficient use of armor, among others.

=== Skill Checks ===
When your character uses a skill, he isn't guaranteed success. In order to determine success, whenever you attempt to use a skill, you must make a skill check. Unlike with attack rolls and saving throws, a natural roll of 20 on the d20 is not an automatic success when making a skill check, and a natural roll of 1 is not an automatic failure.

Each skill rank grants a +1 bonus on checks made using that skill. When you make a skill check, you roll 1d20 and then add your ranks and the appropriate ability score modifier to the result of this check. If your ability score provides a penalty instead of a bonus it takes effect no matter if the skill is Trained or not. Skills can be further modified by a wide variety of sources, by your species, by a class ability, by equipment, by technological effects or items, and so on.

If the result of your skill check is equal to or greater than the Difficulty Class (or DC) of the task you are attempting to accomplish, you succeed. If it is less than the DC, you fail. Some tasks have varying levels of success and failure depending on how much your check is above or below the required DC. Some skill checks are opposed by the target's skill check. When making an opposed skill check, the attempt is successful if your check result exceeds the result of the target.

==== Trying Again ====
If a character fails on a skill check, he or she can sometimes try again. Check the skill description to find out if, and under what circumstances, a character can try again. Many skills, however, have natural consequences for failing that must be accounted for. Some skills can’t be tried again once a check has failed for a particular task. If the use of a skill carries no penalty for failure, a character can take 20 and assume that he or she keeps trying until he or she eventually succeeds.

A skill check usually takes 1 to 2 minutes of in game time. So why not just keep rolling till you succeed? Well firstly it does take up time. Think of the game play like a movie. There are scenes and the characters in those scenes often do not have time to spend wasting about. The GM should consider the time the Player is spending attempting the skill checks. Also sometimes the GM may setup ambushes or other actions. The GM can set a time limit which is usually just 2 minutes. That gives the players enough time to preform the check before the next scene occurs.

==== Taking 10 and Taking 20 ====
A skill check represents an attempt to accomplish some goal, usually while under some sort of time pressure or distraction. Sometimes, though, a character can use a skill under more favorable conditions, increasing the odds of success. A character cannot take 10 or 20 if they do not have the time in game. The Player must also be aware of the time within the game. Taking 10 or 20 means actually taking 10 or 20 minutes to preform the action associated with the skill. They must be willing to spend that amount of time doing just that and nothing else. (Except for talking too other Characters)

;Taking 10

: When your character is not in immediate danger or distracted, you may choose to take 10. Instead of rolling 1d20 for the skill check, calculate your result as if you had rolled a 10. For many routine tasks, taking 10 makes them automatically successful. Distractions or threats (such as combat) make it impossible for a character to take 10. In most cases, taking 10 is purely a safety measure—you know (or expect) that an average roll will succeed but fear that a poor roll might fail, so you elect to settle for the average roll (a 10). Taking 10 is especially useful in situations where a particularly high roll wouldn't help.

;Taking 20

: When you have plenty of time, you are faced with no threats or distractions, and the skill being attempted carries no penalties for failure, you can take 20. In other words, if you a d20 roll enough times, eventually you will get a 20. Instead of rolling 1d20 for the skill check, just calculate your result as if you had rolled a 20.

: Taking 20 means you are trying until you get it right, and it assumes that you fail many times before succeeding. Taking 20 takes 20 times as long as making a single check would take (usually 2 minutes for a skill that takes 1 round or less to perform).

: Since taking 20 assumes that your character will fail many times before succeeding, your character would automatically incur any penalties for failure before he or she could complete the task (hence why it is generally not allowed with skills that carry such penalties). Common “take 20” skills include Disable Device (when used to open locks), Escape Artist, and Perception (when attempting to find traps).

;Ability Checks
: The normal take 10 and take 20 rules apply for ability checks.

=== Aiding Another ===
In some situations, characters can cooperate to accomplish a given task. One character is designated as the leader in the effort, while the others try to aid the character in his or her efforts. A character aids another by making a skill check (DC 10). This is a standard action if done in combat, and the character can’t take 10 or 20 on this check. If the check succeeds, the character’s ally gains a Moderate +2 circumstance bonus to apply to his or her skill check to complete the task. The attempt to aid can only occur if the helping character can also preform the same skill. Unless they have a feat or class talent that says otherwise.

In some cases, a character’s help won’t be beneficial, or only a limited number of characters can help at the same time. The GM limits the number of other characters can aid as he or she sees fit for the conditions. A general rule of thumb is 1 additional Character can help. The GM may find that some tasks can be large enough that it would be reasonable for more Characters to help.

Aiding and dividing up a task are two different things. Dividing up a task means that all Characters preform a section of the work and all have to succeed in order for a successful outcome. Crafting large items such as structures is an example of when tasks can be divided up.

Another scenario is cooperative work. This is when all characters can preform the same task and roll each on there own however not all have to be successful for a positive outcome. An example of this would be searching a room for clues. Each Player rolls a Perception skill check for there respected Characters but only one has to be successful at spotting the clue.

=== Difficulty Class ===
Some checks are made against a Difficulty Class (DC). The DC is a number set by the GM (using the skill rules as a guideline) that a character must attain to succeed. Difficulty Class is the opposing number that is compared to the finial number after the modifiers are added too the roll. This DC is used not only for skills but for other rolls as well such as Saving throws.

{| class="wikitable"
|+Table: Difficulty Class Examples:
! style="text-algin:left;"|Difficulty (DC)
! Example (Skill Used)

|-
| Very easy (0)||Notice something large in plain sight (Perception)
|-
| Easy (5)||Climb a knotted rope (Athletics: Climb)
|-
| Average (10)||Hear an approaching security guard (Perception)
|-
| Tough (15)||Disarm an explosive (Demolitions)
|-
| Challenging (20)||Swim against a strong current (Athletics: Swim)
|-
| Formidable (25)||Break into a secure computer system (Computer Use)
|-
| Heroic (30)||Leap across a 30-foot chasm (Athletics: Jump)
|-
| Superheroic (35)||Convince the guards that even though you’re not wearing an ID badge and aren’t on their list, they should let you into the building (Bluff)
|-
| Nearly impossible (40)||Track a trained commando through the an alien forests on an overcast night after 12 days of rainfall (Survival)
|}

=== Opposed Checks ===
Some skill checks are opposed checks. They are made against a randomized number, usually another character’s skill check result.
For ties on opposed checks, the character with the higher key ability score wins. If those scores are the same, roll again.

{| class="wikitable"
|+Table: Example Opposed Checks::
! style="text-algin:left;"|Task
! Skill
! Opposing Skill

|-
| Sneak up on someone||Stealth||Perception
|-
| Con someone||Bluff||Sense Motive
|-
| Hide from someone||Stealth||Perception
|-
| Win a car race||Drive||Drive
|-
| Pretend to be someone else||Disguise||Perception
|-
| Steal a key chain||Sleight of Hand||Perception
|-
| Create a fake ID||Language||Perception
|}

=== Favorable and Unfavorable Conditions ===
Some situations may make a skill easier or harder to use, resulting in a bonus or penalty to the skill modifier or a change to the skill check’s DC. This comes in the form of the Advantage and Disadvantage system.
The GM can alter the odds of success in four ways to take into account exceptional circumstances:
# Give the skill user a Moderate +2 circumstance bonus to represent conditions that improve performance, such as having the perfect tool for the job, getting help from another character, or working under conditions that are significantly better than normal.
# Give the skill user a Moderate –2 circumstance penalty to represent conditions that hamper performance, such as being forced to use improvised tools or possessing misleading information.
# Reduce the DC by 2 to represent circumstances that make the task easier, such as having a friendly audience when making a Perform check or searching for information on an extremely well documented topic with a Computer Use check.
# Increase the DC by 2 to represent circumstances that make the task harder, such as making a Perform check in front of a hostile audience or searching for information on a very poorly documented topic with a Computer Use check.

Conditions that affect a character’s ability to perform the skill change the character’s skill modifier. Conditions that modify how well the character must perform the skill to succeed change the DC. A bonus on a character’s skill modifier or a reduction in the DC of the check have the same result—they create a better chance for success. But they represent different circumstances, and sometimes that difference is important. Changing the Character's Ability/Skill is considered an Advantage/Disadvantage and the rules for applying these changes take effect. However adjusting DC can be done secretly at the discretion of the GM and does not have to follow the Advantage/Disadvantage rules.

=== Time and Skill Checks ===
Using a skill might take a round, several rounds, or even longer. It might take no time at all. Types of actions define how long activities take to perform within the framework of a combat round (3 seconds) and how movement is treated with respect to the activity. See the skill description for specifies on how long a skill takes to use.

In general, using a skill that requires concentration while in close combat is dangerous will provoke an Attack of Opportunity against a character when he or she lets his or her guard down. To learn more please visit the [[Combat|Combat]] page.

=== Tools ===
Some skill applications require the use of tools. If tools are needed, the specific items required are mentioned in the skill description. If the character doesn’t have the appropriate tools, he or she can still attempt to use the skill, but the character takes a Major –4 disadvantage on his or her check.

A character may be able to put together some impromptu tools to make the check. If the GM allows it, reduce the penalty to Moderate –2 (instead of –4) for using impromptu tools. It usually takes some time (several minutes to an hour or more) to collect or create a set of impromptu tools, and it may require a skill check as well.

=== Skill Synergy ===
Sometimes, the GM may decide that having one skill provides a bonus when a character uses another skill in certain situations. The character must have at least 5 ranks in the related skill to gain this synergy bonus, and the GM must agree that the two skills can complement each other in the given situation. In such cases, the character receives a Moderate +2 synergy bonus on the skill check. Any additional bonuses must follow the Advantage/Disadvantage rules.

== Ability Checks ==
Sometimes a character tries to do something to which no specific skill applies. In these cases, the character makes an ability check: Roll 1d20 and apply the appropriate ability modifier. The GM assigns a DC, or sets up an opposed check when two characters are engaged in a contest using one ability against another. In some cases, a test of one’s ability doesn’t involve luck. When two characters arm wrestle, for example, the stronger character simply wins. In the case of identical scores, make opposed Strength checks.

Example Ability Checks:
;Strength
: Forcing open a jammed or locked door
;Dexterity
: Tying a rope
;Constitution
: Holding one’s breath
;Intelligence
: Navigating a maze
;Wisdom
: Recognize a stranger you’ve seen before
;Charisma
: Getting yourself noticed in a crowd

There is also Ability Saves which are explained in the [[Combat|Combat]] section.

== Modifier Types and Stacking ==
A modifier provides a bonus (a positive modifier) or a penalty (a negative modifier) to a die roll. Bonuses with specific descriptors, such as “equipment bonus,” generally don’t stack (combine for cumulative effect) with others of the same type. In those cases, only the best bonus of that type applies. The only specific bonuses that stack are dodge bonuses, synergy bonuses, and sometimes circumstance bonuses. Circumstance bonuses stack only if they’re provided by differing circumstances; if two circumstance bonuses caused by similar circumstances apply, they don’t stack. Specific bonuses that don’t stack include competence, cover, equipment, morale, natural armor, and size.
If the game setting includes magic or other supernatural effects, there can also be deflection, enhancement, enlargement, haste, inherent, insight, luck, profane, resistance, and sacred bonus descriptors. None of these bonuses stack.

Any bonus without a descriptor (such as simply a “+1 bonus”) stacks with other bonuses.

All penalties stack, regardless of their descriptors.

SkillsBasics

2016-01-16T00:35:47Z

173.203.4.162: /* Opposed Checks */

Below is the rules for the use of skills in the game. Skills can seam daunting at first. However realize that not all skills or skill rules will apply too your character. It is unlikely that you will ever use all the skills available for even a fully leveled up character. If you want to review the skills themselves a list of all skills can be found in the [[Skills|Skills]] section.

== All About Skills ==
Skills are common abilities or groups of abilities considered to be actions that the Character can before in game. All skills are associated with an ability score. A d20 is rolled to determine the output of any skill action. Players add bonuses to the d20 roll in the form of d20 + Skill Ranks + Associated Ability Modifier + Misc Mods. Ranks in a skill shows that a Character has trained to get better at that skill. For example the Skill Athletics represents a set of different actions like "Swimming", "Jumping", "Climbing" and so on. They all fall under the Ability of Strength.

Skill checks are usually against some Difficulty Class or DC. Usually this number is predetermined by the GM using rules in the [[Skills|Skills]] section. However skills sometimes may also be against other skills. Such as someones Stealth check may be used as the DC for someone's Perception check.

At each level including level one, a character gets skill points that can be spent to buy ranks in a skill. The character's [[Future_Hero_Base_Class|Base Class]] and Intelligence modifier determines the number of points per level a character gets. The minimum is 1 even if the Intelligence modifier is a negative. The Player can choose not to spend a skill point until the next level. Meaning any unspent skill points roll over to the next level. The maximum rank a skill can have is the level of the Character.

All skills have certain attributes.
# Class/Non-Class
# Natural/Unnatural
# Trained/Untrained
# Rank Dependent

The different attributes will be explained in more detail below:

=== Class Skills ===

In addition to other customizations, each class has a number of favored skills, called class skills. It is easier for your character to become more proficient in these skills, as they represent part of his professional training and constant practice. There are several advantages too class skills. First all class skills are considered to also be trained even if you do not have a rank in it. Secondly in order to add ranks to a class skill the Player only needs to spend one skill point. All non-class skills require two skill points to gain a single rank.

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Modifying Character Sheet: To record what skills are class skills on your character sheet there is a check box on the far left of the skill in question. There are actually two little check boxes. The first box to the left of the skill name is for recording if the skill has been Trained by spending a point in it. (More on Trained/Untrained in the following section). However the next box over is where you can record that the skill is indeed a class skill.
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=== Natural/Unnatural ===

Skills can either be Natural implying that the average person in the Future Path universe knows how to perform this particular action or unnatural implying that it requires training before use. For example the Skill Perception is a Natural skill. Being able to perceive the environment around yourself using some form of sense. Like smell, site, sound or others. This should come Natural to people. However there are also Unnatural skills. Such as crafting. Crafting is not something that a person is just born knowing how to do. And even if the knowledge was implanted genetically that knowledge came from somewhere first.

The difference is that Natural skills do not require that the be Trained first. (More on Training in the section below) Unnatural skills cannot be used at all unless the Character trains in that skill first. Even though Natural skills can be used without being Trained that do not get a bonus from there associated Ability Mod until they are trained.

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Character Sheet: On the Character sheet skills that are Unnatural are identified with a '*' next too there name. You can also see by looking at the Skills page.
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=== Trained/Untrained ===

Unnatural skills require training before use. Training a skill requires a single skill point. Natural skills do not require training too use but without training a Character cannot apply his/her associated ability modifier. All class skills are automatically considered trained.

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Modifying Character Sheet: To denote that a skill is Trained there is a small check box to the left of the skill in question. To the right of the the class skill check box. You can use that check box to record that you have Trained the skill. However to show what a skill type is you do not need to edit the character sheet. Skill types are a predetermined part of the game rules. The character sheet denotes trained skills from natural skills with a '*' next to the skill name.
</pre>

=== Rank Dependent Skills ===

The third and finial type of skill is "Rank Dependent". All "Rank Dependent" skills are considered to also be Unnatural. See the above section "Natural/Unnatural" for more on that. All Rank Dependent skills means is that the best possible outcome is predetermined by the rank of the skill. This does not effect the Difficulty of the task. The target "DC" is still the same. The best way to explain is with the Language skill which is considered Rank Dependent. If you have a skill rank of 5 in "Common Human" it means that you are fluent in it. You may not completely sound native but you will likely fool most. Another player only has a skill rank of 1 in "Common Human". That Player is just learning to speak/write and understand that language. If you are simply handed a paper or holo message in Human language that happens to be garbled. You must roll a Skill check to see if you can understand the message. The DC is the same 15 for both players. Not only does the first player with a rank of 5 in that language has a better chance (because the player can add the +5 to his skill check) but his best possible outcome is that he can completely understand the message. However the best possible outcome for the player with only 1 rank is only a word here or there. The DC is the same for both. But the outcome if they succeed is different.

This means that ranks in some skills will matter more. It may become more important. A full list of skills that are Rank Dependent is below:

# [[Craft|Craft]]
# [[Perform|Perform]]
# [[Language|Language]]
# [[Tech|Tech]]

== Using Skills ==
Using a skill is as simple as rolling a d20 and adding the Skill Mod Total.

'''1d20 + Skill Modifier Total'''

(Skill Modifier = Skill Ranks + Ability Modifier + Miscellaneous Modifiers)

However there are several side notes too consider.
# Is this skill usable in combat?
# If I use this skill in combat does this provoke an Attack of Opportunity
# How long does it take to use this Skill?
# If I fail what is the consequences? Can I try again?

The above questions are all answered on a per skill biases on the [[Skills|Skills]] page. Luckily Characters at level 1 usually only have a few skills so learning how to use a skill isn't difficult if you are a Player. However if you are the GM you should review all the skills in the [[Skills|Skills]] page before game play. You may also want to record what skills each player has.

;Skill Ranks: A character’s ranks in a skill is based on the number of skill points the character has invested in the skill. Some skills can be used even if the character has no ranks in the skill; doing this is known as making an untrained skill check. Remember that this can be only done with "natural" skills. And a character can only add ability modifiers to a skill if it is 'Trained'.

;Ability Modifier: The ability modifier used in the skill check is the modifier of the skill’s key ability (the ability associated with the skill’s use). The key ability of a skill is noted in its description. Here is also a list of skills by their ability:

:: '''Strength''':
* [[Athletics|Athletics]]
:: '''Dexterity''':
* [[Acrobatics|Acrobatics]], [[Drive|Drive]], [[Escape Artist|Escape Artist]], [[Pilot|Pilot]], [[Ride|Ride]], [[Sleight of Hand|Sleight of Hand]], [[Stealth|Stealth]]
:: '''Constitution''':
* None
:: '''Intelligence''':
* [[Computer Use|Computer Use]], [[Craft|Craft]], [[Decipher Script|Decipher Script]], [[Demolitions|Demolitions]], [[Disable Device|Disable Device]], [[Knowledge|Knowledge]], [[Study|Study]]
:: '''Wisdom''':
* [[Perception|Perception]], [[Profession|Profession]], [[Sense Motive|Sense Motive]], [[Survival|Survival]], [[Treat Injury|Treat Injury]]
; '''Charisma''':
* [[Bluff|Bluff]], [[Diplomacy|Diplomacy]], [[Disguise|Disguise]], [[Handle Animal|Handle Animal]], [[Intimidate|Intimidate]], [[Perform|Perform]]

;Miscellaneous Modifiers: Miscellaneous modifiers include bonuses provided by feats, class features and species. Miscellaneous may also include disadvantages such as the ones associated with the non-proficient use of armor, among others.

=== Skill Checks ===
When your character uses a skill, he isn't guaranteed success. In order to determine success, whenever you attempt to use a skill, you must make a skill check. Unlike with attack rolls and saving throws, a natural roll of 20 on the d20 is not an automatic success when making a skill check, and a natural roll of 1 is not an automatic failure.

Each skill rank grants a +1 bonus on checks made using that skill. When you make a skill check, you roll 1d20 and then add your ranks and the appropriate ability score modifier to the result of this check. If your ability score provides a penalty instead of a bonus it takes effect no matter if the skill is Trained or not. Skills can be further modified by a wide variety of sources, by your species, by a class ability, by equipment, by technological effects or items, and so on.

If the result of your skill check is equal to or greater than the Difficulty Class (or DC) of the task you are attempting to accomplish, you succeed. If it is less than the DC, you fail. Some tasks have varying levels of success and failure depending on how much your check is above or below the required DC. Some skill checks are opposed by the target's skill check. When making an opposed skill check, the attempt is successful if your check result exceeds the result of the target.

==== Trying Again ====
If a character fails on a skill check, he or she can sometimes try again. Check the skill description to find out if, and under what circumstances, a character can try again. Many skills, however, have natural consequences for failing that must be accounted for. Some skills can’t be tried again once a check has failed for a particular task. If the use of a skill carries no penalty for failure, a character can take 20 and assume that he or she keeps trying until he or she eventually succeeds.

A skill check usually takes 1 to 2 minutes of in game time. So why not just keep rolling till you succeed? Well firstly it does take up time. Think of the game play like a movie. There are scenes and the characters in those scenes often do not have time to spend wasting about. The GM should consider the time the Player is spending attempting the skill checks. Also sometimes the GM may setup ambushes or other actions. The GM can set a time limit which is usually just 2 minutes. That gives the players enough time to preform the check before the next scene occurs.

==== Taking 10 and Taking 20 ====
A skill check represents an attempt to accomplish some goal, usually while under some sort of time pressure or distraction. Sometimes, though, a character can use a skill under more favorable conditions, increasing the odds of success. A character cannot take 10 or 20 if they do not have the time in game. The Player must also be aware of the time within the game. Taking 10 or 20 means actually taking 10 or 20 minutes to preform the action associated with the skill. They must be willing to spend that amount of time doing just that and nothing else. (Except for talking too other Characters)

;Taking 10

: When your character is not in immediate danger or distracted, you may choose to take 10. Instead of rolling 1d20 for the skill check, calculate your result as if you had rolled a 10. For many routine tasks, taking 10 makes them automatically successful. Distractions or threats (such as combat) make it impossible for a character to take 10. In most cases, taking 10 is purely a safety measure—you know (or expect) that an average roll will succeed but fear that a poor roll might fail, so you elect to settle for the average roll (a 10). Taking 10 is especially useful in situations where a particularly high roll wouldn't help.

;Taking 20

: When you have plenty of time, you are faced with no threats or distractions, and the skill being attempted carries no penalties for failure, you can take 20. In other words, if you a d20 roll enough times, eventually you will get a 20. Instead of rolling 1d20 for the skill check, just calculate your result as if you had rolled a 20.

: Taking 20 means you are trying until you get it right, and it assumes that you fail many times before succeeding. Taking 20 takes 20 times as long as making a single check would take (usually 2 minutes for a skill that takes 1 round or less to perform).

: Since taking 20 assumes that your character will fail many times before succeeding, your character would automatically incur any penalties for failure before he or she could complete the task (hence why it is generally not allowed with skills that carry such penalties). Common “take 20” skills include Disable Device (when used to open locks), Escape Artist, and Perception (when attempting to find traps).

;Ability Checks
: The normal take 10 and take 20 rules apply for ability checks.

=== Aiding Another ===
In some situations, characters can cooperate to accomplish a given task. One character is designated as the leader in the effort, while the others try to aid the character in his or her efforts. A character aids another by making a skill check (DC 10). This is a standard action if done in combat, and the character can’t take 10 or 20 on this check. If the check succeeds, the character’s ally gains a Moderate +2 circumstance bonus to apply to his or her skill check to complete the task. The attempt to aid can only occur if the helping character can also preform the same skill. Unless they have a feat or class talent that says otherwise.

In some cases, a character’s help won’t be beneficial, or only a limited number of characters can help at the same time. The GM limits the number of other characters can aid as he or she sees fit for the conditions. A general rule of thumb is 1 additional Character can help. The GM may find that some tasks can be large enough that it would be reasonable for more Characters to help.

Aiding and dividing up a task are two different things. Dividing up a task means that all Characters preform a section of the work and all have to succeed in order for a successful outcome. Crafting large items such as structures is an example of when tasks can be divided up.

Another scenario is cooperative work. This is when all characters can preform the same task and roll each on there own however not all have to be successful for a positive outcome. An example of this would be searching a room for clues. Each Player rolls a Perception skill check for there respected Characters but only one has to be successful at spotting the clue.

=== Difficulty Class ===
Some checks are made against a Difficulty Class (DC). The DC is a number set by the GM (using the skill rules as a guideline) that a character must attain to succeed. Difficulty Class is the opposing number that is compared to the finial number after the modifiers are added too the roll. This DC is used not only for skills but for other rolls as well such as Saving throws.

{| class="wikitable"
|+Table: Difficulty Class Examples:
! style="text-algin:left;"|Difficulty (DC)
! Example (Skill Used)

|-
| Very easy (0)||Notice something large in plain sight (Perception)
|-
| Easy (5)||Climb a knotted rope (Athletics: Climb)
|-
| Average (10)||Hear an approaching security guard (Perception)
|-
| Tough (15)||Disarm an explosive (Demolitions)
|-
| Challenging (20)||Swim against a strong current (Athletics: Swim)
|-
| Formidable (25)||Break into a secure computer system (Computer Use)
|-
| Heroic (30)||Leap across a 30-foot chasm (Athletics: Jump)
|-
| Superheroic (35)||Convince the guards that even though you’re not wearing an ID badge and aren’t on their list, they should let you into the building (Bluff)
|-
| Nearly impossible (40)||Track a trained commando through the an alien forests on an overcast night after 12 days of rainfall (Survival)
|}

=== Opposed Checks ===
Some skill checks are opposed checks. They are made against a randomized number, usually another character’s skill check result.
For ties on opposed checks, the character with the higher key ability score wins. If those scores are the same, roll again.

{| class="wikitable"
|+Table: Example Opposed Checks::
! style="text-algin:left;"|Task
! Skill
! Opposing Skill

|-
| Sneak up on someone||Stealth||Perception
|-
| Con someone||Bluff||Sense Motive
|-
| Hide from someone||Stealth||Perception
|-
| Win a car race||Drive||Drive
|-
| Pretend to be someone else||Disguise||Perception
|-
| Steal a key chain||Sleight of Hand||Perception
|-
| Create a fake ID||Language||Perception
|}

=== Favorable and Unfavorable Conditions ===
Some situations may make a skill easier or harder to use, resulting in a bonus or penalty to the skill modifier or a change to the skill check’s DC. This comes in the form of the Advantage and Disadvantage system.
The GM can alter the odds of success in four ways to take into account exceptional circumstances:
# Give the skill user a Moderate +2 circumstance bonus to represent conditions that improve performance, such as having the perfect tool for the job, getting help from another character, or working under conditions that are significantly better than normal.
# Give the skill user a Moderate –2 circumstance penalty to represent conditions that hamper performance, such as being forced to use improvised tools or possessing misleading information.
# Reduce the DC by 2 to represent circumstances that make the task easier, such as having a friendly audience when making a Perform check or searching for information on an extremely well documented topic with a Computer Use check.
# Increase the DC by 2 to represent circumstances that make the task harder, such as making a Perform check in front of a hostile audience or searching for information on a very poorly documented topic with a Computer Use check.

Conditions that affect a character’s ability to perform the skill change the character’s skill modifier. Conditions that modify how well the character must perform the skill to succeed change the DC. A bonus on a character’s skill modifier or a reduction in the DC of the check have the same result—they create a better chance for success. But they represent different circumstances, and sometimes that difference is important. Changing the Character's Ability/Skill is considered an Advantage/Disadvantage and the rules for applying these changes take effect. However adjusting DC can be done secretly at the discretion of the GM and does not have to follow the Advantage/Disadvantage rules.

=== Time and Skill Checks ===
Using a skill might take a round, several rounds, or even longer. It might take no time at all. Types of actions define how long activities take to perform within the framework of a combat round (3 seconds) and how movement is treated with respect to the activity. See the skill description for specifies on how long a skill takes to use.

In general, using a skill that requires concentration while in close combat is dangerous. Nearby opponents can make Attacks of Opportunity against a character when he or she lets his or her guard down.

=== Tools ===
Some skill applications require the use of tools. If tools are needed, the specific items required are mentioned in the skill description. If the character doesn’t have the appropriate tools, he or she can still attempt to use the skill, but the character takes a Major –4 disadvantage on his or her check.

A character may be able to put together some impromptu tools to make the check. If the GM allows it, reduce the penalty to Moderate –2 (instead of –4) for using impromptu tools. It usually takes some time (several minutes to an hour or more) to collect or create a set of impromptu tools, and it may require a skill check as well.

=== Skill Synergy ===
Sometimes, the GM may decide that having one skill provides a bonus when a character uses another skill in certain situations. The character must have at least 5 ranks in the related skill to gain this synergy bonus, and the GM must agree that the two skills can complement each other in the given situation. In such cases, the character receives a Moderate +2 synergy bonus on the skill check. Any additional bonuses must follow the Advantage/Disadvantage rules.

== Ability Checks ==
Sometimes a character tries to do something to which no specific skill applies. In these cases, the character makes an ability check: Roll 1d20 and apply the appropriate ability modifier. The GM assigns a DC, or sets up an opposed check when two characters are engaged in a contest using one ability against another. In some cases, a test of one’s ability doesn’t involve luck. When two characters arm wrestle, for example, the stronger character simply wins. In the case of identical scores, make opposed Strength checks.

Example Ability Checks:
;Strength
: Forcing open a jammed or locked door
;Dexterity
: Tying a rope
;Constitution
: Holding one’s breath
;Intelligence
: Navigating a maze
;Wisdom
: Recognize a stranger you’ve seen before
;Charisma
: Getting yourself noticed in a crowd

There is also Ability Saves which are explained in the [[Combat|Combat]] section.

== Modifier Types and Stacking ==
A modifier provides a bonus (a positive modifier) or a penalty (a negative modifier) to a die roll. Bonuses with specific descriptors, such as “equipment bonus,” generally don’t stack (combine for cumulative effect) with others of the same type. In those cases, only the best bonus of that type applies. The only specific bonuses that stack are dodge bonuses, synergy bonuses, and sometimes circumstance bonuses. Circumstance bonuses stack only if they’re provided by differing circumstances; if two circumstance bonuses caused by similar circumstances apply, they don’t stack. Specific bonuses that don’t stack include competence, cover, equipment, morale, natural armor, and size.
If the game setting includes magic or other supernatural effects, there can also be deflection, enhancement, enlargement, haste, inherent, insight, luck, profane, resistance, and sacred bonus descriptors. None of these bonuses stack.

Any bonus without a descriptor (such as simply a “+1 bonus”) stacks with other bonuses.

All penalties stack, regardless of their descriptors.

SkillsBasics

2016-01-16T00:31:35Z

173.203.4.162: /* Difficulty Class */

Below is the rules for the use of skills in the game. Skills can seam daunting at first. However realize that not all skills or skill rules will apply too your character. It is unlikely that you will ever use all the skills available for even a fully leveled up character. If you want to review the skills themselves a list of all skills can be found in the [[Skills|Skills]] section.

== All About Skills ==
Skills are common abilities or groups of abilities considered to be actions that the Character can before in game. All skills are associated with an ability score. A d20 is rolled to determine the output of any skill action. Players add bonuses to the d20 roll in the form of d20 + Skill Ranks + Associated Ability Modifier + Misc Mods. Ranks in a skill shows that a Character has trained to get better at that skill. For example the Skill Athletics represents a set of different actions like "Swimming", "Jumping", "Climbing" and so on. They all fall under the Ability of Strength.

Skill checks are usually against some Difficulty Class or DC. Usually this number is predetermined by the GM using rules in the [[Skills|Skills]] section. However skills sometimes may also be against other skills. Such as someones Stealth check may be used as the DC for someone's Perception check.

At each level including level one, a character gets skill points that can be spent to buy ranks in a skill. The character's [[Future_Hero_Base_Class|Base Class]] and Intelligence modifier determines the number of points per level a character gets. The minimum is 1 even if the Intelligence modifier is a negative. The Player can choose not to spend a skill point until the next level. Meaning any unspent skill points roll over to the next level. The maximum rank a skill can have is the level of the Character.

All skills have certain attributes.
# Class/Non-Class
# Natural/Unnatural
# Trained/Untrained
# Rank Dependent

The different attributes will be explained in more detail below:

=== Class Skills ===

In addition to other customizations, each class has a number of favored skills, called class skills. It is easier for your character to become more proficient in these skills, as they represent part of his professional training and constant practice. There are several advantages too class skills. First all class skills are considered to also be trained even if you do not have a rank in it. Secondly in order to add ranks to a class skill the Player only needs to spend one skill point. All non-class skills require two skill points to gain a single rank.

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Modifying Character Sheet: To record what skills are class skills on your character sheet there is a check box on the far left of the skill in question. There are actually two little check boxes. The first box to the left of the skill name is for recording if the skill has been Trained by spending a point in it. (More on Trained/Untrained in the following section). However the next box over is where you can record that the skill is indeed a class skill.
</pre>

=== Natural/Unnatural ===

Skills can either be Natural implying that the average person in the Future Path universe knows how to perform this particular action or unnatural implying that it requires training before use. For example the Skill Perception is a Natural skill. Being able to perceive the environment around yourself using some form of sense. Like smell, site, sound or others. This should come Natural to people. However there are also Unnatural skills. Such as crafting. Crafting is not something that a person is just born knowing how to do. And even if the knowledge was implanted genetically that knowledge came from somewhere first.

The difference is that Natural skills do not require that the be Trained first. (More on Training in the section below) Unnatural skills cannot be used at all unless the Character trains in that skill first. Even though Natural skills can be used without being Trained that do not get a bonus from there associated Ability Mod until they are trained.

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Character Sheet: On the Character sheet skills that are Unnatural are identified with a '*' next too there name. You can also see by looking at the Skills page.
</pre>

=== Trained/Untrained ===

Unnatural skills require training before use. Training a skill requires a single skill point. Natural skills do not require training too use but without training a Character cannot apply his/her associated ability modifier. All class skills are automatically considered trained.

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Modifying Character Sheet: To denote that a skill is Trained there is a small check box to the left of the skill in question. To the right of the the class skill check box. You can use that check box to record that you have Trained the skill. However to show what a skill type is you do not need to edit the character sheet. Skill types are a predetermined part of the game rules. The character sheet denotes trained skills from natural skills with a '*' next to the skill name.
</pre>

=== Rank Dependent Skills ===

The third and finial type of skill is "Rank Dependent". All "Rank Dependent" skills are considered to also be Unnatural. See the above section "Natural/Unnatural" for more on that. All Rank Dependent skills means is that the best possible outcome is predetermined by the rank of the skill. This does not effect the Difficulty of the task. The target "DC" is still the same. The best way to explain is with the Language skill which is considered Rank Dependent. If you have a skill rank of 5 in "Common Human" it means that you are fluent in it. You may not completely sound native but you will likely fool most. Another player only has a skill rank of 1 in "Common Human". That Player is just learning to speak/write and understand that language. If you are simply handed a paper or holo message in Human language that happens to be garbled. You must roll a Skill check to see if you can understand the message. The DC is the same 15 for both players. Not only does the first player with a rank of 5 in that language has a better chance (because the player can add the +5 to his skill check) but his best possible outcome is that he can completely understand the message. However the best possible outcome for the player with only 1 rank is only a word here or there. The DC is the same for both. But the outcome if they succeed is different.

This means that ranks in some skills will matter more. It may become more important. A full list of skills that are Rank Dependent is below:

# [[Craft|Craft]]
# [[Perform|Perform]]
# [[Language|Language]]
# [[Tech|Tech]]

== Using Skills ==
Using a skill is as simple as rolling a d20 and adding the Skill Mod Total.

'''1d20 + Skill Modifier Total'''

(Skill Modifier = Skill Ranks + Ability Modifier + Miscellaneous Modifiers)

However there are several side notes too consider.
# Is this skill usable in combat?
# If I use this skill in combat does this provoke an Attack of Opportunity
# How long does it take to use this Skill?
# If I fail what is the consequences? Can I try again?

The above questions are all answered on a per skill biases on the [[Skills|Skills]] page. Luckily Characters at level 1 usually only have a few skills so learning how to use a skill isn't difficult if you are a Player. However if you are the GM you should review all the skills in the [[Skills|Skills]] page before game play. You may also want to record what skills each player has.

;Skill Ranks: A character’s ranks in a skill is based on the number of skill points the character has invested in the skill. Some skills can be used even if the character has no ranks in the skill; doing this is known as making an untrained skill check. Remember that this can be only done with "natural" skills. And a character can only add ability modifiers to a skill if it is 'Trained'.

;Ability Modifier: The ability modifier used in the skill check is the modifier of the skill’s key ability (the ability associated with the skill’s use). The key ability of a skill is noted in its description. Here is also a list of skills by their ability:

:: '''Strength''':
* [[Athletics|Athletics]]
:: '''Dexterity''':
* [[Acrobatics|Acrobatics]], [[Drive|Drive]], [[Escape Artist|Escape Artist]], [[Pilot|Pilot]], [[Ride|Ride]], [[Sleight of Hand|Sleight of Hand]], [[Stealth|Stealth]]
:: '''Constitution''':
* None
:: '''Intelligence''':
* [[Computer Use|Computer Use]], [[Craft|Craft]], [[Decipher Script|Decipher Script]], [[Demolitions|Demolitions]], [[Disable Device|Disable Device]], [[Knowledge|Knowledge]], [[Study|Study]]
:: '''Wisdom''':
* [[Perception|Perception]], [[Profession|Profession]], [[Sense Motive|Sense Motive]], [[Survival|Survival]], [[Treat Injury|Treat Injury]]
; '''Charisma''':
* [[Bluff|Bluff]], [[Diplomacy|Diplomacy]], [[Disguise|Disguise]], [[Handle Animal|Handle Animal]], [[Intimidate|Intimidate]], [[Perform|Perform]]

;Miscellaneous Modifiers: Miscellaneous modifiers include bonuses provided by feats, class features and species. Miscellaneous may also include disadvantages such as the ones associated with the non-proficient use of armor, among others.

=== Skill Checks ===
When your character uses a skill, he isn't guaranteed success. In order to determine success, whenever you attempt to use a skill, you must make a skill check. Unlike with attack rolls and saving throws, a natural roll of 20 on the d20 is not an automatic success when making a skill check, and a natural roll of 1 is not an automatic failure.

Each skill rank grants a +1 bonus on checks made using that skill. When you make a skill check, you roll 1d20 and then add your ranks and the appropriate ability score modifier to the result of this check. If your ability score provides a penalty instead of a bonus it takes effect no matter if the skill is Trained or not. Skills can be further modified by a wide variety of sources, by your species, by a class ability, by equipment, by technological effects or items, and so on.

If the result of your skill check is equal to or greater than the Difficulty Class (or DC) of the task you are attempting to accomplish, you succeed. If it is less than the DC, you fail. Some tasks have varying levels of success and failure depending on how much your check is above or below the required DC. Some skill checks are opposed by the target's skill check. When making an opposed skill check, the attempt is successful if your check result exceeds the result of the target.

==== Trying Again ====
If a character fails on a skill check, he or she can sometimes try again. Check the skill description to find out if, and under what circumstances, a character can try again. Many skills, however, have natural consequences for failing that must be accounted for. Some skills can’t be tried again once a check has failed for a particular task. If the use of a skill carries no penalty for failure, a character can take 20 and assume that he or she keeps trying until he or she eventually succeeds.

A skill check usually takes 1 to 2 minutes of in game time. So why not just keep rolling till you succeed? Well firstly it does take up time. Think of the game play like a movie. There are scenes and the characters in those scenes often do not have time to spend wasting about. The GM should consider the time the Player is spending attempting the skill checks. Also sometimes the GM may setup ambushes or other actions. The GM can set a time limit which is usually just 2 minutes. That gives the players enough time to preform the check before the next scene occurs.

==== Taking 10 and Taking 20 ====
A skill check represents an attempt to accomplish some goal, usually while under some sort of time pressure or distraction. Sometimes, though, a character can use a skill under more favorable conditions, increasing the odds of success. A character cannot take 10 or 20 if they do not have the time in game. The Player must also be aware of the time within the game. Taking 10 or 20 means actually taking 10 or 20 minutes to preform the action associated with the skill. They must be willing to spend that amount of time doing just that and nothing else. (Except for talking too other Characters)

;Taking 10

: When your character is not in immediate danger or distracted, you may choose to take 10. Instead of rolling 1d20 for the skill check, calculate your result as if you had rolled a 10. For many routine tasks, taking 10 makes them automatically successful. Distractions or threats (such as combat) make it impossible for a character to take 10. In most cases, taking 10 is purely a safety measure—you know (or expect) that an average roll will succeed but fear that a poor roll might fail, so you elect to settle for the average roll (a 10). Taking 10 is especially useful in situations where a particularly high roll wouldn't help.

;Taking 20

: When you have plenty of time, you are faced with no threats or distractions, and the skill being attempted carries no penalties for failure, you can take 20. In other words, if you a d20 roll enough times, eventually you will get a 20. Instead of rolling 1d20 for the skill check, just calculate your result as if you had rolled a 20.

: Taking 20 means you are trying until you get it right, and it assumes that you fail many times before succeeding. Taking 20 takes 20 times as long as making a single check would take (usually 2 minutes for a skill that takes 1 round or less to perform).

: Since taking 20 assumes that your character will fail many times before succeeding, your character would automatically incur any penalties for failure before he or she could complete the task (hence why it is generally not allowed with skills that carry such penalties). Common “take 20” skills include Disable Device (when used to open locks), Escape Artist, and Perception (when attempting to find traps).

;Ability Checks
: The normal take 10 and take 20 rules apply for ability checks.

=== Aiding Another ===
In some situations, characters can cooperate to accomplish a given task. One character is designated as the leader in the effort, while the others try to aid the character in his or her efforts. A character aids another by making a skill check (DC 10). This is a standard action if done in combat, and the character can’t take 10 or 20 on this check. If the check succeeds, the character’s ally gains a Moderate +2 circumstance bonus to apply to his or her skill check to complete the task. The attempt to aid can only occur if the helping character can also preform the same skill. Unless they have a feat or class talent that says otherwise.

In some cases, a character’s help won’t be beneficial, or only a limited number of characters can help at the same time. The GM limits the number of other characters can aid as he or she sees fit for the conditions. A general rule of thumb is 1 additional Character can help. The GM may find that some tasks can be large enough that it would be reasonable for more Characters to help.

Aiding and dividing up a task are two different things. Dividing up a task means that all Characters preform a section of the work and all have to succeed in order for a successful outcome. Crafting large items such as structures is an example of when tasks can be divided up.

Another scenario is cooperative work. This is when all characters can preform the same task and roll each on there own however not all have to be successful for a positive outcome. An example of this would be searching a room for clues. Each Player rolls a Perception skill check for there respected Characters but only one has to be successful at spotting the clue.

=== Difficulty Class ===
Some checks are made against a Difficulty Class (DC). The DC is a number set by the GM (using the skill rules as a guideline) that a character must attain to succeed. Difficulty Class is the opposing number that is compared to the finial number after the modifiers are added too the roll. This DC is used not only for skills but for other rolls as well such as Saving throws.

{| class="wikitable"
|+Table: Difficulty Class Examples:
! style="text-algin:left;"|Difficulty (DC)
! Example (Skill Used)

|-
| Very easy (0)||Notice something large in plain sight (Perception)
|-
| Easy (5)||Climb a knotted rope (Athletics: Climb)
|-
| Average (10)||Hear an approaching security guard (Perception)
|-
| Tough (15)||Disarm an explosive (Demolitions)
|-
| Challenging (20)||Swim against a strong current (Athletics: Swim)
|-
| Formidable (25)||Break into a secure computer system (Computer Use)
|-
| Heroic (30)||Leap across a 30-foot chasm (Athletics: Jump)
|-
| Superheroic (35)||Convince the guards that even though you’re not wearing an ID badge and aren’t on their list, they should let you into the building (Bluff)
|-
| Nearly impossible (40)||Track a trained commando through the an alien forests on an overcast night after 12 days of rainfall (Survival)
|}

=== Opposed Checks ===
Some skill checks are opposed checks. They are made against a randomized number, usually another character’s skill check result.
For ties on opposed checks, the character with the higher key ability score wins. If those scores are the same, roll again.

{| class="wikitable"
|+Table: Example Opposed Checks::
! style="text-algin:left;"|Task
! Skill
! Opposing Skill

|-
| Sneak up on someone||Move Silently||Listen
|-
| Con someone||Bluff||Sense Motive
|-
| Hide from someone||Hide||Spot
|-
| Win a car race||Drive||Drive
|-
| Pretend to be someone else||Disguise||Spot
|-
| Steal a key chain||Sleight of Hand||Spot
|-
| Create a fake ID||Forgery||Forgery
|}

=== Favorable and Unfavorable Conditions ===
Some situations may make a skill easier or harder to use, resulting in a bonus or penalty to the skill modifier or a change to the skill check’s DC. This comes in the form of the Advantage and Disadvantage system.
The GM can alter the odds of success in four ways to take into account exceptional circumstances:
# Give the skill user a Moderate +2 circumstance bonus to represent conditions that improve performance, such as having the perfect tool for the job, getting help from another character, or working under conditions that are significantly better than normal.
# Give the skill user a Moderate –2 circumstance penalty to represent conditions that hamper performance, such as being forced to use improvised tools or possessing misleading information.
# Reduce the DC by 2 to represent circumstances that make the task easier, such as having a friendly audience when making a Perform check or searching for information on an extremely well documented topic with a Computer Use check.
# Increase the DC by 2 to represent circumstances that make the task harder, such as making a Perform check in front of a hostile audience or searching for information on a very poorly documented topic with a Computer Use check.

Conditions that affect a character’s ability to perform the skill change the character’s skill modifier. Conditions that modify how well the character must perform the skill to succeed change the DC. A bonus on a character’s skill modifier or a reduction in the DC of the check have the same result—they create a better chance for success. But they represent different circumstances, and sometimes that difference is important. Changing the Character's Ability/Skill is considered an Advantage/Disadvantage and the rules for applying these changes take effect. However adjusting DC can be done secretly at the discretion of the GM and does not have to follow the Advantage/Disadvantage rules.

=== Time and Skill Checks ===
Using a skill might take a round, several rounds, or even longer. It might take no time at all. Types of actions define how long activities take to perform within the framework of a combat round (3 seconds) and how movement is treated with respect to the activity. See the skill description for specifies on how long a skill takes to use.

In general, using a skill that requires concentration while in close combat is dangerous. Nearby opponents can make Attacks of Opportunity against a character when he or she lets his or her guard down.

=== Tools ===
Some skill applications require the use of tools. If tools are needed, the specific items required are mentioned in the skill description. If the character doesn’t have the appropriate tools, he or she can still attempt to use the skill, but the character takes a Major –4 disadvantage on his or her check.

A character may be able to put together some impromptu tools to make the check. If the GM allows it, reduce the penalty to Moderate –2 (instead of –4) for using impromptu tools. It usually takes some time (several minutes to an hour or more) to collect or create a set of impromptu tools, and it may require a skill check as well.

=== Skill Synergy ===
Sometimes, the GM may decide that having one skill provides a bonus when a character uses another skill in certain situations. The character must have at least 5 ranks in the related skill to gain this synergy bonus, and the GM must agree that the two skills can complement each other in the given situation. In such cases, the character receives a Moderate +2 synergy bonus on the skill check. Any additional bonuses must follow the Advantage/Disadvantage rules.

== Ability Checks ==
Sometimes a character tries to do something to which no specific skill applies. In these cases, the character makes an ability check: Roll 1d20 and apply the appropriate ability modifier. The GM assigns a DC, or sets up an opposed check when two characters are engaged in a contest using one ability against another. In some cases, a test of one’s ability doesn’t involve luck. When two characters arm wrestle, for example, the stronger character simply wins. In the case of identical scores, make opposed Strength checks.

Example Ability Checks:
;Strength
: Forcing open a jammed or locked door
;Dexterity
: Tying a rope
;Constitution
: Holding one’s breath
;Intelligence
: Navigating a maze
;Wisdom
: Recognize a stranger you’ve seen before
;Charisma
: Getting yourself noticed in a crowd

There is also Ability Saves which are explained in the [[Combat|Combat]] section.

== Modifier Types and Stacking ==
A modifier provides a bonus (a positive modifier) or a penalty (a negative modifier) to a die roll. Bonuses with specific descriptors, such as “equipment bonus,” generally don’t stack (combine for cumulative effect) with others of the same type. In those cases, only the best bonus of that type applies. The only specific bonuses that stack are dodge bonuses, synergy bonuses, and sometimes circumstance bonuses. Circumstance bonuses stack only if they’re provided by differing circumstances; if two circumstance bonuses caused by similar circumstances apply, they don’t stack. Specific bonuses that don’t stack include competence, cover, equipment, morale, natural armor, and size.
If the game setting includes magic or other supernatural effects, there can also be deflection, enhancement, enlargement, haste, inherent, insight, luck, profane, resistance, and sacred bonus descriptors. None of these bonuses stack.

Any bonus without a descriptor (such as simply a “+1 bonus”) stacks with other bonuses.

All penalties stack, regardless of their descriptors.

SkillsBasics

2016-01-16T00:29:12Z

173.203.4.162: /* Difficulty Class */

Below is the rules for the use of skills in the game. Skills can seam daunting at first. However realize that not all skills or skill rules will apply too your character. It is unlikely that you will ever use all the skills available for even a fully leveled up character. If you want to review the skills themselves a list of all skills can be found in the [[Skills|Skills]] section.

== All About Skills ==
Skills are common abilities or groups of abilities considered to be actions that the Character can before in game. All skills are associated with an ability score. A d20 is rolled to determine the output of any skill action. Players add bonuses to the d20 roll in the form of d20 + Skill Ranks + Associated Ability Modifier + Misc Mods. Ranks in a skill shows that a Character has trained to get better at that skill. For example the Skill Athletics represents a set of different actions like "Swimming", "Jumping", "Climbing" and so on. They all fall under the Ability of Strength.

Skill checks are usually against some Difficulty Class or DC. Usually this number is predetermined by the GM using rules in the [[Skills|Skills]] section. However skills sometimes may also be against other skills. Such as someones Stealth check may be used as the DC for someone's Perception check.

At each level including level one, a character gets skill points that can be spent to buy ranks in a skill. The character's [[Future_Hero_Base_Class|Base Class]] and Intelligence modifier determines the number of points per level a character gets. The minimum is 1 even if the Intelligence modifier is a negative. The Player can choose not to spend a skill point until the next level. Meaning any unspent skill points roll over to the next level. The maximum rank a skill can have is the level of the Character.

All skills have certain attributes.
# Class/Non-Class
# Natural/Unnatural
# Trained/Untrained
# Rank Dependent

The different attributes will be explained in more detail below:

=== Class Skills ===

In addition to other customizations, each class has a number of favored skills, called class skills. It is easier for your character to become more proficient in these skills, as they represent part of his professional training and constant practice. There are several advantages too class skills. First all class skills are considered to also be trained even if you do not have a rank in it. Secondly in order to add ranks to a class skill the Player only needs to spend one skill point. All non-class skills require two skill points to gain a single rank.

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Modifying Character Sheet: To record what skills are class skills on your character sheet there is a check box on the far left of the skill in question. There are actually two little check boxes. The first box to the left of the skill name is for recording if the skill has been Trained by spending a point in it. (More on Trained/Untrained in the following section). However the next box over is where you can record that the skill is indeed a class skill.
</pre>

=== Natural/Unnatural ===

Skills can either be Natural implying that the average person in the Future Path universe knows how to perform this particular action or unnatural implying that it requires training before use. For example the Skill Perception is a Natural skill. Being able to perceive the environment around yourself using some form of sense. Like smell, site, sound or others. This should come Natural to people. However there are also Unnatural skills. Such as crafting. Crafting is not something that a person is just born knowing how to do. And even if the knowledge was implanted genetically that knowledge came from somewhere first.

The difference is that Natural skills do not require that the be Trained first. (More on Training in the section below) Unnatural skills cannot be used at all unless the Character trains in that skill first. Even though Natural skills can be used without being Trained that do not get a bonus from there associated Ability Mod until they are trained.

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Character Sheet: On the Character sheet skills that are Unnatural are identified with a '*' next too there name. You can also see by looking at the Skills page.
</pre>

=== Trained/Untrained ===

Unnatural skills require training before use. Training a skill requires a single skill point. Natural skills do not require training too use but without training a Character cannot apply his/her associated ability modifier. All class skills are automatically considered trained.

<pre style="white-space: pre-wrap;
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Modifying Character Sheet: To denote that a skill is Trained there is a small check box to the left of the skill in question. To the right of the the class skill check box. You can use that check box to record that you have Trained the skill. However to show what a skill type is you do not need to edit the character sheet. Skill types are a predetermined part of the game rules. The character sheet denotes trained skills from natural skills with a '*' next to the skill name.
</pre>

=== Rank Dependent Skills ===

The third and finial type of skill is "Rank Dependent". All "Rank Dependent" skills are considered to also be Unnatural. See the above section "Natural/Unnatural" for more on that. All Rank Dependent skills means is that the best possible outcome is predetermined by the rank of the skill. This does not effect the Difficulty of the task. The target "DC" is still the same. The best way to explain is with the Language skill which is considered Rank Dependent. If you have a skill rank of 5 in "Common Human" it means that you are fluent in it. You may not completely sound native but you will likely fool most. Another player only has a skill rank of 1 in "Common Human". That Player is just learning to speak/write and understand that language. If you are simply handed a paper or holo message in Human language that happens to be garbled. You must roll a Skill check to see if you can understand the message. The DC is the same 15 for both players. Not only does the first player with a rank of 5 in that language has a better chance (because the player can add the +5 to his skill check) but his best possible outcome is that he can completely understand the message. However the best possible outcome for the player with only 1 rank is only a word here or there. The DC is the same for both. But the outcome if they succeed is different.

This means that ranks in some skills will matter more. It may become more important. A full list of skills that are Rank Dependent is below:

# [[Craft|Craft]]
# [[Perform|Perform]]
# [[Language|Language]]
# [[Tech|Tech]]

== Using Skills ==
Using a skill is as simple as rolling a d20 and adding the Skill Mod Total.

'''1d20 + Skill Modifier Total'''

(Skill Modifier = Skill Ranks + Ability Modifier + Miscellaneous Modifiers)

However there are several side notes too consider.
# Is this skill usable in combat?
# If I use this skill in combat does this provoke an Attack of Opportunity
# How long does it take to use this Skill?
# If I fail what is the consequences? Can I try again?

The above questions are all answered on a per skill biases on the [[Skills|Skills]] page. Luckily Characters at level 1 usually only have a few skills so learning how to use a skill isn't difficult if you are a Player. However if you are the GM you should review all the skills in the [[Skills|Skills]] page before game play. You may also want to record what skills each player has.

;Skill Ranks: A character’s ranks in a skill is based on the number of skill points the character has invested in the skill. Some skills can be used even if the character has no ranks in the skill; doing this is known as making an untrained skill check. Remember that this can be only done with "natural" skills. And a character can only add ability modifiers to a skill if it is 'Trained'.

;Ability Modifier: The ability modifier used in the skill check is the modifier of the skill’s key ability (the ability associated with the skill’s use). The key ability of a skill is noted in its description. Here is also a list of skills by their ability:

:: '''Strength''':
* [[Athletics|Athletics]]
:: '''Dexterity''':
* [[Acrobatics|Acrobatics]], [[Drive|Drive]], [[Escape Artist|Escape Artist]], [[Pilot|Pilot]], [[Ride|Ride]], [[Sleight of Hand|Sleight of Hand]], [[Stealth|Stealth]]
:: '''Constitution''':
* None
:: '''Intelligence''':
* [[Computer Use|Computer Use]], [[Craft|Craft]], [[Decipher Script|Decipher Script]], [[Demolitions|Demolitions]], [[Disable Device|Disable Device]], [[Knowledge|Knowledge]], [[Study|Study]]
:: '''Wisdom''':
* [[Perception|Perception]], [[Profession|Profession]], [[Sense Motive|Sense Motive]], [[Survival|Survival]], [[Treat Injury|Treat Injury]]
; '''Charisma''':
* [[Bluff|Bluff]], [[Diplomacy|Diplomacy]], [[Disguise|Disguise]], [[Handle Animal|Handle Animal]], [[Intimidate|Intimidate]], [[Perform|Perform]]

;Miscellaneous Modifiers: Miscellaneous modifiers include bonuses provided by feats, class features and species. Miscellaneous may also include disadvantages such as the ones associated with the non-proficient use of armor, among others.

=== Skill Checks ===
When your character uses a skill, he isn't guaranteed success. In order to determine success, whenever you attempt to use a skill, you must make a skill check. Unlike with attack rolls and saving throws, a natural roll of 20 on the d20 is not an automatic success when making a skill check, and a natural roll of 1 is not an automatic failure.

Each skill rank grants a +1 bonus on checks made using that skill. When you make a skill check, you roll 1d20 and then add your ranks and the appropriate ability score modifier to the result of this check. If your ability score provides a penalty instead of a bonus it takes effect no matter if the skill is Trained or not. Skills can be further modified by a wide variety of sources, by your species, by a class ability, by equipment, by technological effects or items, and so on.

If the result of your skill check is equal to or greater than the Difficulty Class (or DC) of the task you are attempting to accomplish, you succeed. If it is less than the DC, you fail. Some tasks have varying levels of success and failure depending on how much your check is above or below the required DC. Some skill checks are opposed by the target's skill check. When making an opposed skill check, the attempt is successful if your check result exceeds the result of the target.

==== Trying Again ====
If a character fails on a skill check, he or she can sometimes try again. Check the skill description to find out if, and under what circumstances, a character can try again. Many skills, however, have natural consequences for failing that must be accounted for. Some skills can’t be tried again once a check has failed for a particular task. If the use of a skill carries no penalty for failure, a character can take 20 and assume that he or she keeps trying until he or she eventually succeeds.

A skill check usually takes 1 to 2 minutes of in game time. So why not just keep rolling till you succeed? Well firstly it does take up time. Think of the game play like a movie. There are scenes and the characters in those scenes often do not have time to spend wasting about. The GM should consider the time the Player is spending attempting the skill checks. Also sometimes the GM may setup ambushes or other actions. The GM can set a time limit which is usually just 2 minutes. That gives the players enough time to preform the check before the next scene occurs.

==== Taking 10 and Taking 20 ====
A skill check represents an attempt to accomplish some goal, usually while under some sort of time pressure or distraction. Sometimes, though, a character can use a skill under more favorable conditions, increasing the odds of success. A character cannot take 10 or 20 if they do not have the time in game. The Player must also be aware of the time within the game. Taking 10 or 20 means actually taking 10 or 20 minutes to preform the action associated with the skill. They must be willing to spend that amount of time doing just that and nothing else. (Except for talking too other Characters)

;Taking 10

: When your character is not in immediate danger or distracted, you may choose to take 10. Instead of rolling 1d20 for the skill check, calculate your result as if you had rolled a 10. For many routine tasks, taking 10 makes them automatically successful. Distractions or threats (such as combat) make it impossible for a character to take 10. In most cases, taking 10 is purely a safety measure—you know (or expect) that an average roll will succeed but fear that a poor roll might fail, so you elect to settle for the average roll (a 10). Taking 10 is especially useful in situations where a particularly high roll wouldn't help.

;Taking 20

: When you have plenty of time, you are faced with no threats or distractions, and the skill being attempted carries no penalties for failure, you can take 20. In other words, if you a d20 roll enough times, eventually you will get a 20. Instead of rolling 1d20 for the skill check, just calculate your result as if you had rolled a 20.

: Taking 20 means you are trying until you get it right, and it assumes that you fail many times before succeeding. Taking 20 takes 20 times as long as making a single check would take (usually 2 minutes for a skill that takes 1 round or less to perform).

: Since taking 20 assumes that your character will fail many times before succeeding, your character would automatically incur any penalties for failure before he or she could complete the task (hence why it is generally not allowed with skills that carry such penalties). Common “take 20” skills include Disable Device (when used to open locks), Escape Artist, and Perception (when attempting to find traps).

;Ability Checks
: The normal take 10 and take 20 rules apply for ability checks.

=== Aiding Another ===
In some situations, characters can cooperate to accomplish a given task. One character is designated as the leader in the effort, while the others try to aid the character in his or her efforts. A character aids another by making a skill check (DC 10). This is a standard action if done in combat, and the character can’t take 10 or 20 on this check. If the check succeeds, the character’s ally gains a Moderate +2 circumstance bonus to apply to his or her skill check to complete the task. The attempt to aid can only occur if the helping character can also preform the same skill. Unless they have a feat or class talent that says otherwise.

In some cases, a character’s help won’t be beneficial, or only a limited number of characters can help at the same time. The GM limits the number of other characters can aid as he or she sees fit for the conditions. A general rule of thumb is 1 additional Character can help. The GM may find that some tasks can be large enough that it would be reasonable for more Characters to help.

Aiding and dividing up a task are two different things. Dividing up a task means that all Characters preform a section of the work and all have to succeed in order for a successful outcome. Crafting large items such as structures is an example of when tasks can be divided up.

Another scenario is cooperative work. This is when all characters can preform the same task and roll each on there own however not all have to be successful for a positive outcome. An example of this would be searching a room for clues. Each Player rolls a Perception skill check for there respected Characters but only one has to be successful at spotting the clue.

=== Difficulty Class ===
Some checks are made against a Difficulty Class (DC). The DC is a number set by the GM (using the skill rules as a guideline) that a character must attain to succeed. Difficulty Class is the opposing number that is compared to the finial number after the modifiers are added too the roll. This DC is used not only for skills but for other rolls as well such as Saving throws.

{| class="wikitable"
|+Table: Difficulty Class Examples:
! style="text-algin:left;"|Difficulty (DC)
! Example (Skill Used)

|-
| Very easy (0)||Notice something large in plain sight (Spot)
|-
| Easy (5)||Climb a knotted rope (Climb)
|-
| Average (10)||Hear an approaching security guard (Listen)
|-
| Tough (15)||Disarm an explosive (Demolitions)
|-
| Challenging (20)||Swim against a strong current (Swim)
|-
| Formidable (25)||Break into a secure computer system (Computer Use)
|-
| Heroic (30)||Leap across a 30-foot chasm (Jump)
|-
| Superheroic (35)||Convince the guards that even though you’re not wearing an ID badge and aren’t on their list, they should let you into the building (Bluff)
|-
| Nearly impossible (40)||Track a trained commando through the forests of Brazil on a moonless night after 12 days of rainfall (Survival)
|}

=== Opposed Checks ===
Some skill checks are opposed checks. They are made against a randomized number, usually another character’s skill check result.
For ties on opposed checks, the character with the higher key ability score wins. If those scores are the same, roll again.

{| class="wikitable"
|+Table: Example Opposed Checks::
! style="text-algin:left;"|Task
! Skill
! Opposing Skill

|-
| Sneak up on someone||Move Silently||Listen
|-
| Con someone||Bluff||Sense Motive
|-
| Hide from someone||Hide||Spot
|-
| Win a car race||Drive||Drive
|-
| Pretend to be someone else||Disguise||Spot
|-
| Steal a key chain||Sleight of Hand||Spot
|-
| Create a fake ID||Forgery||Forgery
|}

=== Favorable and Unfavorable Conditions ===
Some situations may make a skill easier or harder to use, resulting in a bonus or penalty to the skill modifier or a change to the skill check’s DC. This comes in the form of the Advantage and Disadvantage system.
The GM can alter the odds of success in four ways to take into account exceptional circumstances:
# Give the skill user a Moderate +2 circumstance bonus to represent conditions that improve performance, such as having the perfect tool for the job, getting help from another character, or working under conditions that are significantly better than normal.
# Give the skill user a Moderate –2 circumstance penalty to represent conditions that hamper performance, such as being forced to use improvised tools or possessing misleading information.
# Reduce the DC by 2 to represent circumstances that make the task easier, such as having a friendly audience when making a Perform check or searching for information on an extremely well documented topic with a Computer Use check.
# Increase the DC by 2 to represent circumstances that make the task harder, such as making a Perform check in front of a hostile audience or searching for information on a very poorly documented topic with a Computer Use check.

Conditions that affect a character’s ability to perform the skill change the character’s skill modifier. Conditions that modify how well the character must perform the skill to succeed change the DC. A bonus on a character’s skill modifier or a reduction in the DC of the check have the same result—they create a better chance for success. But they represent different circumstances, and sometimes that difference is important. Changing the Character's Ability/Skill is considered an Advantage/Disadvantage and the rules for applying these changes take effect. However adjusting DC can be done secretly at the discretion of the GM and does not have to follow the Advantage/Disadvantage rules.

=== Time and Skill Checks ===
Using a skill might take a round, several rounds, or even longer. It might take no time at all. Types of actions define how long activities take to perform within the framework of a combat round (3 seconds) and how movement is treated with respect to the activity. See the skill description for specifies on how long a skill takes to use.

In general, using a skill that requires concentration while in close combat is dangerous. Nearby opponents can make Attacks of Opportunity against a character when he or she lets his or her guard down.

=== Tools ===
Some skill applications require the use of tools. If tools are needed, the specific items required are mentioned in the skill description. If the character doesn’t have the appropriate tools, he or she can still attempt to use the skill, but the character takes a Major –4 disadvantage on his or her check.

A character may be able to put together some impromptu tools to make the check. If the GM allows it, reduce the penalty to Moderate –2 (instead of –4) for using impromptu tools. It usually takes some time (several minutes to an hour or more) to collect or create a set of impromptu tools, and it may require a skill check as well.

=== Skill Synergy ===
Sometimes, the GM may decide that having one skill provides a bonus when a character uses another skill in certain situations. The character must have at least 5 ranks in the related skill to gain this synergy bonus, and the GM must agree that the two skills can complement each other in the given situation. In such cases, the character receives a Moderate +2 synergy bonus on the skill check. Any additional bonuses must follow the Advantage/Disadvantage rules.

== Ability Checks ==
Sometimes a character tries to do something to which no specific skill applies. In these cases, the character makes an ability check: Roll 1d20 and apply the appropriate ability modifier. The GM assigns a DC, or sets up an opposed check when two characters are engaged in a contest using one ability against another. In some cases, a test of one’s ability doesn’t involve luck. When two characters arm wrestle, for example, the stronger character simply wins. In the case of identical scores, make opposed Strength checks.

Example Ability Checks:
;Strength
: Forcing open a jammed or locked door
;Dexterity
: Tying a rope
;Constitution
: Holding one’s breath
;Intelligence
: Navigating a maze
;Wisdom
: Recognize a stranger you’ve seen before
;Charisma
: Getting yourself noticed in a crowd

There is also Ability Saves which are explained in the [[Combat|Combat]] section.

== Modifier Types and Stacking ==
A modifier provides a bonus (a positive modifier) or a penalty (a negative modifier) to a die roll. Bonuses with specific descriptors, such as “equipment bonus,” generally don’t stack (combine for cumulative effect) with others of the same type. In those cases, only the best bonus of that type applies. The only specific bonuses that stack are dodge bonuses, synergy bonuses, and sometimes circumstance bonuses. Circumstance bonuses stack only if they’re provided by differing circumstances; if two circumstance bonuses caused by similar circumstances apply, they don’t stack. Specific bonuses that don’t stack include competence, cover, equipment, morale, natural armor, and size.
If the game setting includes magic or other supernatural effects, there can also be deflection, enhancement, enlargement, haste, inherent, insight, luck, profane, resistance, and sacred bonus descriptors. None of these bonuses stack.

Any bonus without a descriptor (such as simply a “+1 bonus”) stacks with other bonuses.

All penalties stack, regardless of their descriptors.

SkillsBasics

2016-01-16T00:26:27Z

173.203.4.162: /* Aiding Another */

Below is the rules for the use of skills in the game. Skills can seam daunting at first. However realize that not all skills or skill rules will apply too your character. It is unlikely that you will ever use all the skills available for even a fully leveled up character. If you want to review the skills themselves a list of all skills can be found in the [[Skills|Skills]] section.

== All About Skills ==
Skills are common abilities or groups of abilities considered to be actions that the Character can before in game. All skills are associated with an ability score. A d20 is rolled to determine the output of any skill action. Players add bonuses to the d20 roll in the form of d20 + Skill Ranks + Associated Ability Modifier + Misc Mods. Ranks in a skill shows that a Character has trained to get better at that skill. For example the Skill Athletics represents a set of different actions like "Swimming", "Jumping", "Climbing" and so on. They all fall under the Ability of Strength.

Skill checks are usually against some Difficulty Class or DC. Usually this number is predetermined by the GM using rules in the [[Skills|Skills]] section. However skills sometimes may also be against other skills. Such as someones Stealth check may be used as the DC for someone's Perception check.

At each level including level one, a character gets skill points that can be spent to buy ranks in a skill. The character's [[Future_Hero_Base_Class|Base Class]] and Intelligence modifier determines the number of points per level a character gets. The minimum is 1 even if the Intelligence modifier is a negative. The Player can choose not to spend a skill point until the next level. Meaning any unspent skill points roll over to the next level. The maximum rank a skill can have is the level of the Character.

All skills have certain attributes.
# Class/Non-Class
# Natural/Unnatural
# Trained/Untrained
# Rank Dependent

The different attributes will be explained in more detail below:

=== Class Skills ===

In addition to other customizations, each class has a number of favored skills, called class skills. It is easier for your character to become more proficient in these skills, as they represent part of his professional training and constant practice. There are several advantages too class skills. First all class skills are considered to also be trained even if you do not have a rank in it. Secondly in order to add ranks to a class skill the Player only needs to spend one skill point. All non-class skills require two skill points to gain a single rank.

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Modifying Character Sheet: To record what skills are class skills on your character sheet there is a check box on the far left of the skill in question. There are actually two little check boxes. The first box to the left of the skill name is for recording if the skill has been Trained by spending a point in it. (More on Trained/Untrained in the following section). However the next box over is where you can record that the skill is indeed a class skill.
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=== Natural/Unnatural ===

Skills can either be Natural implying that the average person in the Future Path universe knows how to perform this particular action or unnatural implying that it requires training before use. For example the Skill Perception is a Natural skill. Being able to perceive the environment around yourself using some form of sense. Like smell, site, sound or others. This should come Natural to people. However there are also Unnatural skills. Such as crafting. Crafting is not something that a person is just born knowing how to do. And even if the knowledge was implanted genetically that knowledge came from somewhere first.

The difference is that Natural skills do not require that the be Trained first. (More on Training in the section below) Unnatural skills cannot be used at all unless the Character trains in that skill first. Even though Natural skills can be used without being Trained that do not get a bonus from there associated Ability Mod until they are trained.

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Character Sheet: On the Character sheet skills that are Unnatural are identified with a '*' next too there name. You can also see by looking at the Skills page.
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=== Trained/Untrained ===

Unnatural skills require training before use. Training a skill requires a single skill point. Natural skills do not require training too use but without training a Character cannot apply his/her associated ability modifier. All class skills are automatically considered trained.

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Modifying Character Sheet: To denote that a skill is Trained there is a small check box to the left of the skill in question. To the right of the the class skill check box. You can use that check box to record that you have Trained the skill. However to show what a skill type is you do not need to edit the character sheet. Skill types are a predetermined part of the game rules. The character sheet denotes trained skills from natural skills with a '*' next to the skill name.
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=== Rank Dependent Skills ===

The third and finial type of skill is "Rank Dependent". All "Rank Dependent" skills are considered to also be Unnatural. See the above section "Natural/Unnatural" for more on that. All Rank Dependent skills means is that the best possible outcome is predetermined by the rank of the skill. This does not effect the Difficulty of the task. The target "DC" is still the same. The best way to explain is with the Language skill which is considered Rank Dependent. If you have a skill rank of 5 in "Common Human" it means that you are fluent in it. You may not completely sound native but you will likely fool most. Another player only has a skill rank of 1 in "Common Human". That Player is just learning to speak/write and understand that language. If you are simply handed a paper or holo message in Human language that happens to be garbled. You must roll a Skill check to see if you can understand the message. The DC is the same 15 for both players. Not only does the first player with a rank of 5 in that language has a better chance (because the player can add the +5 to his skill check) but his best possible outcome is that he can completely understand the message. However the best possible outcome for the player with only 1 rank is only a word here or there. The DC is the same for both. But the outcome if they succeed is different.

This means that ranks in some skills will matter more. It may become more important. A full list of skills that are Rank Dependent is below:

# [[Craft|Craft]]
# [[Perform|Perform]]
# [[Language|Language]]
# [[Tech|Tech]]

== Using Skills ==
Using a skill is as simple as rolling a d20 and adding the Skill Mod Total.

'''1d20 + Skill Modifier Total'''

(Skill Modifier = Skill Ranks + Ability Modifier + Miscellaneous Modifiers)

However there are several side notes too consider.
# Is this skill usable in combat?
# If I use this skill in combat does this provoke an Attack of Opportunity
# How long does it take to use this Skill?
# If I fail what is the consequences? Can I try again?

The above questions are all answered on a per skill biases on the [[Skills|Skills]] page. Luckily Characters at level 1 usually only have a few skills so learning how to use a skill isn't difficult if you are a Player. However if you are the GM you should review all the skills in the [[Skills|Skills]] page before game play. You may also want to record what skills each player has.

;Skill Ranks: A character’s ranks in a skill is based on the number of skill points the character has invested in the skill. Some skills can be used even if the character has no ranks in the skill; doing this is known as making an untrained skill check. Remember that this can be only done with "natural" skills. And a character can only add ability modifiers to a skill if it is 'Trained'.

;Ability Modifier: The ability modifier used in the skill check is the modifier of the skill’s key ability (the ability associated with the skill’s use). The key ability of a skill is noted in its description. Here is also a list of skills by their ability:

:: '''Strength''':
* [[Athletics|Athletics]]
:: '''Dexterity''':
* [[Acrobatics|Acrobatics]], [[Drive|Drive]], [[Escape Artist|Escape Artist]], [[Pilot|Pilot]], [[Ride|Ride]], [[Sleight of Hand|Sleight of Hand]], [[Stealth|Stealth]]
:: '''Constitution''':
* None
:: '''Intelligence''':
* [[Computer Use|Computer Use]], [[Craft|Craft]], [[Decipher Script|Decipher Script]], [[Demolitions|Demolitions]], [[Disable Device|Disable Device]], [[Knowledge|Knowledge]], [[Study|Study]]
:: '''Wisdom''':
* [[Perception|Perception]], [[Profession|Profession]], [[Sense Motive|Sense Motive]], [[Survival|Survival]], [[Treat Injury|Treat Injury]]
; '''Charisma''':
* [[Bluff|Bluff]], [[Diplomacy|Diplomacy]], [[Disguise|Disguise]], [[Handle Animal|Handle Animal]], [[Intimidate|Intimidate]], [[Perform|Perform]]

;Miscellaneous Modifiers: Miscellaneous modifiers include bonuses provided by feats, class features and species. Miscellaneous may also include disadvantages such as the ones associated with the non-proficient use of armor, among others.

=== Skill Checks ===
When your character uses a skill, he isn't guaranteed success. In order to determine success, whenever you attempt to use a skill, you must make a skill check. Unlike with attack rolls and saving throws, a natural roll of 20 on the d20 is not an automatic success when making a skill check, and a natural roll of 1 is not an automatic failure.

Each skill rank grants a +1 bonus on checks made using that skill. When you make a skill check, you roll 1d20 and then add your ranks and the appropriate ability score modifier to the result of this check. If your ability score provides a penalty instead of a bonus it takes effect no matter if the skill is Trained or not. Skills can be further modified by a wide variety of sources, by your species, by a class ability, by equipment, by technological effects or items, and so on.

If the result of your skill check is equal to or greater than the Difficulty Class (or DC) of the task you are attempting to accomplish, you succeed. If it is less than the DC, you fail. Some tasks have varying levels of success and failure depending on how much your check is above or below the required DC. Some skill checks are opposed by the target's skill check. When making an opposed skill check, the attempt is successful if your check result exceeds the result of the target.

==== Trying Again ====
If a character fails on a skill check, he or she can sometimes try again. Check the skill description to find out if, and under what circumstances, a character can try again. Many skills, however, have natural consequences for failing that must be accounted for. Some skills can’t be tried again once a check has failed for a particular task. If the use of a skill carries no penalty for failure, a character can take 20 and assume that he or she keeps trying until he or she eventually succeeds.

A skill check usually takes 1 to 2 minutes of in game time. So why not just keep rolling till you succeed? Well firstly it does take up time. Think of the game play like a movie. There are scenes and the characters in those scenes often do not have time to spend wasting about. The GM should consider the time the Player is spending attempting the skill checks. Also sometimes the GM may setup ambushes or other actions. The GM can set a time limit which is usually just 2 minutes. That gives the players enough time to preform the check before the next scene occurs.

==== Taking 10 and Taking 20 ====
A skill check represents an attempt to accomplish some goal, usually while under some sort of time pressure or distraction. Sometimes, though, a character can use a skill under more favorable conditions, increasing the odds of success. A character cannot take 10 or 20 if they do not have the time in game. The Player must also be aware of the time within the game. Taking 10 or 20 means actually taking 10 or 20 minutes to preform the action associated with the skill. They must be willing to spend that amount of time doing just that and nothing else. (Except for talking too other Characters)

;Taking 10

: When your character is not in immediate danger or distracted, you may choose to take 10. Instead of rolling 1d20 for the skill check, calculate your result as if you had rolled a 10. For many routine tasks, taking 10 makes them automatically successful. Distractions or threats (such as combat) make it impossible for a character to take 10. In most cases, taking 10 is purely a safety measure—you know (or expect) that an average roll will succeed but fear that a poor roll might fail, so you elect to settle for the average roll (a 10). Taking 10 is especially useful in situations where a particularly high roll wouldn't help.

;Taking 20

: When you have plenty of time, you are faced with no threats or distractions, and the skill being attempted carries no penalties for failure, you can take 20. In other words, if you a d20 roll enough times, eventually you will get a 20. Instead of rolling 1d20 for the skill check, just calculate your result as if you had rolled a 20.

: Taking 20 means you are trying until you get it right, and it assumes that you fail many times before succeeding. Taking 20 takes 20 times as long as making a single check would take (usually 2 minutes for a skill that takes 1 round or less to perform).

: Since taking 20 assumes that your character will fail many times before succeeding, your character would automatically incur any penalties for failure before he or she could complete the task (hence why it is generally not allowed with skills that carry such penalties). Common “take 20” skills include Disable Device (when used to open locks), Escape Artist, and Perception (when attempting to find traps).

;Ability Checks
: The normal take 10 and take 20 rules apply for ability checks.

=== Aiding Another ===
In some situations, characters can cooperate to accomplish a given task. One character is designated as the leader in the effort, while the others try to aid the character in his or her efforts. A character aids another by making a skill check (DC 10). This is a standard action if done in combat, and the character can’t take 10 or 20 on this check. If the check succeeds, the character’s ally gains a Moderate +2 circumstance bonus to apply to his or her skill check to complete the task. The attempt to aid can only occur if the helping character can also preform the same skill. Unless they have a feat or class talent that says otherwise.

In some cases, a character’s help won’t be beneficial, or only a limited number of characters can help at the same time. The GM limits the number of other characters can aid as he or she sees fit for the conditions. A general rule of thumb is 1 additional Character can help. The GM may find that some tasks can be large enough that it would be reasonable for more Characters to help.

Aiding and dividing up a task are two different things. Dividing up a task means that all Characters preform a section of the work and all have to succeed in order for a successful outcome. Crafting large items such as structures is an example of when tasks can be divided up.

Another scenario is cooperative work. This is when all characters can preform the same task and roll each on there own however not all have to be successful for a positive outcome. An example of this would be searching a room for clues. Each Player rolls a Perception skill check for there respected Characters but only one has to be successful at spotting the clue.

=== Difficulty Class ===
Some checks are made against a Difficulty Class (DC). The DC is a number set by the GM (using the skill rules as a guideline) that a character must attain to succeed.
{| class="wikitable"
|+Table: Difficulty Class Examples:
! style="text-algin:left;"|Difficulty (DC)
! Example (Skill Used)

|-
| Very easy (0)||Notice something large in plain sight (Spot)
|-
| Easy (5)||Climb a knotted rope (Climb)
|-
| Average (10)||Hear an approaching security guard (Listen)
|-
| Tough (15)||Disarm an explosive (Demolitions)
|-
| Challenging (20)||Swim against a strong current (Swim)
|-
| Formidable (25)||Break into a secure computer system (Computer Use)
|-
| Heroic (30)||Leap across a 30-foot chasm (Jump)
|-
| Superheroic (35)||Convince the guards that even though you’re not wearing an ID badge and aren’t on their list, they should let you into the building (Bluff)
|-
| Nearly impossible (40)||Track a trained commando through the forests of Brazil on a moonless night after 12 days of rainfall (Survival)
|}

=== Opposed Checks ===
Some skill checks are opposed checks. They are made against a randomized number, usually another character’s skill check result.
For ties on opposed checks, the character with the higher key ability score wins. If those scores are the same, roll again.

{| class="wikitable"
|+Table: Example Opposed Checks::
! style="text-algin:left;"|Task
! Skill
! Opposing Skill

|-
| Sneak up on someone||Move Silently||Listen
|-
| Con someone||Bluff||Sense Motive
|-
| Hide from someone||Hide||Spot
|-
| Win a car race||Drive||Drive
|-
| Pretend to be someone else||Disguise||Spot
|-
| Steal a key chain||Sleight of Hand||Spot
|-
| Create a fake ID||Forgery||Forgery
|}

=== Favorable and Unfavorable Conditions ===
Some situations may make a skill easier or harder to use, resulting in a bonus or penalty to the skill modifier or a change to the skill check’s DC. This comes in the form of the Advantage and Disadvantage system.
The GM can alter the odds of success in four ways to take into account exceptional circumstances:
# Give the skill user a Moderate +2 circumstance bonus to represent conditions that improve performance, such as having the perfect tool for the job, getting help from another character, or working under conditions that are significantly better than normal.
# Give the skill user a Moderate –2 circumstance penalty to represent conditions that hamper performance, such as being forced to use improvised tools or possessing misleading information.
# Reduce the DC by 2 to represent circumstances that make the task easier, such as having a friendly audience when making a Perform check or searching for information on an extremely well documented topic with a Computer Use check.
# Increase the DC by 2 to represent circumstances that make the task harder, such as making a Perform check in front of a hostile audience or searching for information on a very poorly documented topic with a Computer Use check.

Conditions that affect a character’s ability to perform the skill change the character’s skill modifier. Conditions that modify how well the character must perform the skill to succeed change the DC. A bonus on a character’s skill modifier or a reduction in the DC of the check have the same result—they create a better chance for success. But they represent different circumstances, and sometimes that difference is important. Changing the Character's Ability/Skill is considered an Advantage/Disadvantage and the rules for applying these changes take effect. However adjusting DC can be done secretly at the discretion of the GM and does not have to follow the Advantage/Disadvantage rules.

=== Time and Skill Checks ===
Using a skill might take a round, several rounds, or even longer. It might take no time at all. Types of actions define how long activities take to perform within the framework of a combat round (3 seconds) and how movement is treated with respect to the activity. See the skill description for specifies on how long a skill takes to use.

In general, using a skill that requires concentration while in close combat is dangerous. Nearby opponents can make Attacks of Opportunity against a character when he or she lets his or her guard down.

=== Tools ===
Some skill applications require the use of tools. If tools are needed, the specific items required are mentioned in the skill description. If the character doesn’t have the appropriate tools, he or she can still attempt to use the skill, but the character takes a Major –4 disadvantage on his or her check.

A character may be able to put together some impromptu tools to make the check. If the GM allows it, reduce the penalty to Moderate –2 (instead of –4) for using impromptu tools. It usually takes some time (several minutes to an hour or more) to collect or create a set of impromptu tools, and it may require a skill check as well.

=== Skill Synergy ===
Sometimes, the GM may decide that having one skill provides a bonus when a character uses another skill in certain situations. The character must have at least 5 ranks in the related skill to gain this synergy bonus, and the GM must agree that the two skills can complement each other in the given situation. In such cases, the character receives a Moderate +2 synergy bonus on the skill check. Any additional bonuses must follow the Advantage/Disadvantage rules.

== Ability Checks ==
Sometimes a character tries to do something to which no specific skill applies. In these cases, the character makes an ability check: Roll 1d20 and apply the appropriate ability modifier. The GM assigns a DC, or sets up an opposed check when two characters are engaged in a contest using one ability against another. In some cases, a test of one’s ability doesn’t involve luck. When two characters arm wrestle, for example, the stronger character simply wins. In the case of identical scores, make opposed Strength checks.

Example Ability Checks:
;Strength
: Forcing open a jammed or locked door
;Dexterity
: Tying a rope
;Constitution
: Holding one’s breath
;Intelligence
: Navigating a maze
;Wisdom
: Recognize a stranger you’ve seen before
;Charisma
: Getting yourself noticed in a crowd

There is also Ability Saves which are explained in the [[Combat|Combat]] section.

== Modifier Types and Stacking ==
A modifier provides a bonus (a positive modifier) or a penalty (a negative modifier) to a die roll. Bonuses with specific descriptors, such as “equipment bonus,” generally don’t stack (combine for cumulative effect) with others of the same type. In those cases, only the best bonus of that type applies. The only specific bonuses that stack are dodge bonuses, synergy bonuses, and sometimes circumstance bonuses. Circumstance bonuses stack only if they’re provided by differing circumstances; if two circumstance bonuses caused by similar circumstances apply, they don’t stack. Specific bonuses that don’t stack include competence, cover, equipment, morale, natural armor, and size.
If the game setting includes magic or other supernatural effects, there can also be deflection, enhancement, enlargement, haste, inherent, insight, luck, profane, resistance, and sacred bonus descriptors. None of these bonuses stack.

Any bonus without a descriptor (such as simply a “+1 bonus”) stacks with other bonuses.

All penalties stack, regardless of their descriptors.

SkillsBasics

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Below is the rules for the use of skills in the game. Skills can seam daunting at first. However realize that not all skills or skill rules will apply too your character. It is unlikely that you will ever use all the skills available for even a fully leveled up character. If you want to review the skills themselves a list of all skills can be found in the [[Skills|Skills]] section.

== All About Skills ==
Skills are common abilities or groups of abilities considered to be actions that the Character can before in game. All skills are associated with an ability score. A d20 is rolled to determine the output of any skill action. Players add bonuses to the d20 roll in the form of d20 + Skill Ranks + Associated Ability Modifier + Misc Mods. Ranks in a skill shows that a Character has trained to get better at that skill. For example the Skill Athletics represents a set of different actions like "Swimming", "Jumping", "Climbing" and so on. They all fall under the Ability of Strength.

Skill checks are usually against some Difficulty Class or DC. Usually this number is predetermined by the GM using rules in the [[Skills|Skills]] section. However skills sometimes may also be against other skills. Such as someones Stealth check may be used as the DC for someone's Perception check.

At each level including level one, a character gets skill points that can be spent to buy ranks in a skill. The character's [[Future_Hero_Base_Class|Base Class]] and Intelligence modifier determines the number of points per level a character gets. The minimum is 1 even if the Intelligence modifier is a negative. The Player can choose not to spend a skill point until the next level. Meaning any unspent skill points roll over to the next level. The maximum rank a skill can have is the level of the Character.

All skills have certain attributes.
# Class/Non-Class
# Natural/Unnatural
# Trained/Untrained
# Rank Dependent

The different attributes will be explained in more detail below:

=== Class Skills ===

In addition to other customizations, each class has a number of favored skills, called class skills. It is easier for your character to become more proficient in these skills, as they represent part of his professional training and constant practice. There are several advantages too class skills. First all class skills are considered to also be trained even if you do not have a rank in it. Secondly in order to add ranks to a class skill the Player only needs to spend one skill point. All non-class skills require two skill points to gain a single rank.

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Modifying Character Sheet: To record what skills are class skills on your character sheet there is a check box on the far left of the skill in question. There are actually two little check boxes. The first box to the left of the skill name is for recording if the skill has been Trained by spending a point in it. (More on Trained/Untrained in the following section). However the next box over is where you can record that the skill is indeed a class skill.
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=== Natural/Unnatural ===

Skills can either be Natural implying that the average person in the Future Path universe knows how to perform this particular action or unnatural implying that it requires training before use. For example the Skill Perception is a Natural skill. Being able to perceive the environment around yourself using some form of sense. Like smell, site, sound or others. This should come Natural to people. However there are also Unnatural skills. Such as crafting. Crafting is not something that a person is just born knowing how to do. And even if the knowledge was implanted genetically that knowledge came from somewhere first.

The difference is that Natural skills do not require that the be Trained first. (More on Training in the section below) Unnatural skills cannot be used at all unless the Character trains in that skill first. Even though Natural skills can be used without being Trained that do not get a bonus from there associated Ability Mod until they are trained.

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Character Sheet: On the Character sheet skills that are Unnatural are identified with a '*' next too there name. You can also see by looking at the Skills page.
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=== Trained/Untrained ===

Unnatural skills require training before use. Training a skill requires a single skill point. Natural skills do not require training too use but without training a Character cannot apply his/her associated ability modifier. All class skills are automatically considered trained.

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Modifying Character Sheet: To denote that a skill is Trained there is a small check box to the left of the skill in question. To the right of the the class skill check box. You can use that check box to record that you have Trained the skill. However to show what a skill type is you do not need to edit the character sheet. Skill types are a predetermined part of the game rules. The character sheet denotes trained skills from natural skills with a '*' next to the skill name.
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=== Rank Dependent Skills ===

The third and finial type of skill is "Rank Dependent". All "Rank Dependent" skills are considered to also be Unnatural. See the above section "Natural/Unnatural" for more on that. All Rank Dependent skills means is that the best possible outcome is predetermined by the rank of the skill. This does not effect the Difficulty of the task. The target "DC" is still the same. The best way to explain is with the Language skill which is considered Rank Dependent. If you have a skill rank of 5 in "Common Human" it means that you are fluent in it. You may not completely sound native but you will likely fool most. Another player only has a skill rank of 1 in "Common Human". That Player is just learning to speak/write and understand that language. If you are simply handed a paper or holo message in Human language that happens to be garbled. You must roll a Skill check to see if you can understand the message. The DC is the same 15 for both players. Not only does the first player with a rank of 5 in that language has a better chance (because the player can add the +5 to his skill check) but his best possible outcome is that he can completely understand the message. However the best possible outcome for the player with only 1 rank is only a word here or there. The DC is the same for both. But the outcome if they succeed is different.

This means that ranks in some skills will matter more. It may become more important. A full list of skills that are Rank Dependent is below:

# [[Craft|Craft]]
# [[Perform|Perform]]
# [[Language|Language]]
# [[Tech|Tech]]

== Using Skills ==
Using a skill is as simple as rolling a d20 and adding the Skill Mod Total.

'''1d20 + Skill Modifier Total'''

(Skill Modifier = Skill Ranks + Ability Modifier + Miscellaneous Modifiers)

However there are several side notes too consider.
# Is this skill usable in combat?
# If I use this skill in combat does this provoke an Attack of Opportunity
# How long does it take to use this Skill?
# If I fail what is the consequences? Can I try again?

The above questions are all answered on a per skill biases on the [[Skills|Skills]] page. Luckily Characters at level 1 usually only have a few skills so learning how to use a skill isn't difficult if you are a Player. However if you are the GM you should review all the skills in the [[Skills|Skills]] page before game play. You may also want to record what skills each player has.

;Skill Ranks: A character’s ranks in a skill is based on the number of skill points the character has invested in the skill. Some skills can be used even if the character has no ranks in the skill; doing this is known as making an untrained skill check. Remember that this can be only done with "natural" skills. And a character can only add ability modifiers to a skill if it is 'Trained'.

;Ability Modifier: The ability modifier used in the skill check is the modifier of the skill’s key ability (the ability associated with the skill’s use). The key ability of a skill is noted in its description. Here is also a list of skills by their ability:

:: '''Strength''':
* [[Athletics|Athletics]]
:: '''Dexterity''':
* [[Acrobatics|Acrobatics]], [[Drive|Drive]], [[Escape Artist|Escape Artist]], [[Pilot|Pilot]], [[Ride|Ride]], [[Sleight of Hand|Sleight of Hand]], [[Stealth|Stealth]]
:: '''Constitution''':
* None
:: '''Intelligence''':
* [[Computer Use|Computer Use]], [[Craft|Craft]], [[Decipher Script|Decipher Script]], [[Demolitions|Demolitions]], [[Disable Device|Disable Device]], [[Knowledge|Knowledge]], [[Study|Study]]
:: '''Wisdom''':
* [[Perception|Perception]], [[Profession|Profession]], [[Sense Motive|Sense Motive]], [[Survival|Survival]], [[Treat Injury|Treat Injury]]
; '''Charisma''':
* [[Bluff|Bluff]], [[Diplomacy|Diplomacy]], [[Disguise|Disguise]], [[Handle Animal|Handle Animal]], [[Intimidate|Intimidate]], [[Perform|Perform]]

;Miscellaneous Modifiers: Miscellaneous modifiers include bonuses provided by feats, class features and species. Miscellaneous may also include disadvantages such as the ones associated with the non-proficient use of armor, among others.

=== Skill Checks ===
When your character uses a skill, he isn't guaranteed success. In order to determine success, whenever you attempt to use a skill, you must make a skill check. Unlike with attack rolls and saving throws, a natural roll of 20 on the d20 is not an automatic success when making a skill check, and a natural roll of 1 is not an automatic failure.

Each skill rank grants a +1 bonus on checks made using that skill. When you make a skill check, you roll 1d20 and then add your ranks and the appropriate ability score modifier to the result of this check. If your ability score provides a penalty instead of a bonus it takes effect no matter if the skill is Trained or not. Skills can be further modified by a wide variety of sources, by your species, by a class ability, by equipment, by technological effects or items, and so on.

If the result of your skill check is equal to or greater than the Difficulty Class (or DC) of the task you are attempting to accomplish, you succeed. If it is less than the DC, you fail. Some tasks have varying levels of success and failure depending on how much your check is above or below the required DC. Some skill checks are opposed by the target's skill check. When making an opposed skill check, the attempt is successful if your check result exceeds the result of the target.

==== Trying Again ====
If a character fails on a skill check, he or she can sometimes try again. Check the skill description to find out if, and under what circumstances, a character can try again. Many skills, however, have natural consequences for failing that must be accounted for. Some skills can’t be tried again once a check has failed for a particular task. If the use of a skill carries no penalty for failure, a character can take 20 and assume that he or she keeps trying until he or she eventually succeeds.

A skill check usually takes 1 to 2 minutes of in game time. So why not just keep rolling till you succeed? Well firstly it does take up time. Think of the game play like a movie. There are scenes and the characters in those scenes often do not have time to spend wasting about. The GM should consider the time the Player is spending attempting the skill checks. Also sometimes the GM may setup ambushes or other actions. The GM can set a time limit which is usually just 2 minutes. That gives the players enough time to preform the check before the next scene occurs.

==== Taking 10 and Taking 20 ====
A skill check represents an attempt to accomplish some goal, usually while under some sort of time pressure or distraction. Sometimes, though, a character can use a skill under more favorable conditions, increasing the odds of success. A character cannot take 10 or 20 if they do not have the time in game. The Player must also be aware of the time within the game. Taking 10 or 20 means actually taking 10 or 20 minutes to preform the action associated with the skill. They must be willing to spend that amount of time doing just that and nothing else. (Except for talking too other Characters)

;Taking 10

: When your character is not in immediate danger or distracted, you may choose to take 10. Instead of rolling 1d20 for the skill check, calculate your result as if you had rolled a 10. For many routine tasks, taking 10 makes them automatically successful. Distractions or threats (such as combat) make it impossible for a character to take 10. In most cases, taking 10 is purely a safety measure—you know (or expect) that an average roll will succeed but fear that a poor roll might fail, so you elect to settle for the average roll (a 10). Taking 10 is especially useful in situations where a particularly high roll wouldn't help.

;Taking 20

: When you have plenty of time, you are faced with no threats or distractions, and the skill being attempted carries no penalties for failure, you can take 20. In other words, if you a d20 roll enough times, eventually you will get a 20. Instead of rolling 1d20 for the skill check, just calculate your result as if you had rolled a 20.

: Taking 20 means you are trying until you get it right, and it assumes that you fail many times before succeeding. Taking 20 takes 20 times as long as making a single check would take (usually 2 minutes for a skill that takes 1 round or less to perform).

: Since taking 20 assumes that your character will fail many times before succeeding, your character would automatically incur any penalties for failure before he or she could complete the task (hence why it is generally not allowed with skills that carry such penalties). Common “take 20” skills include Disable Device (when used to open locks), Escape Artist, and Perception (when attempting to find traps).

;Ability Checks
: The normal take 10 and take 20 rules apply for ability checks.

=== Aiding Another ===
In some situations, characters can cooperate to accomplish a given task. One character is designated as the leader in the effort, while the others try to aid the character in his or her efforts. A character aids another by making a skill check (DC 10). This is a standard action if done in combat, and the character can’t take 10 or 20 on this check. If the check succeeds, the character’s ally gains a Moderate +2 circumstance bonus to apply to his or her skill check to complete the task. The attempt to aid can only occur if the helping character can also preform the same skill. Unless they have a feat or class talent that says otherwise.

In many cases, a character’s help won’t be beneficial, or only a limited number of characters can help at the same time. The GM limits the number of other characters can aid as he or she sees fit for the conditions. A general rule of thumb is 1 additional Character can help. The GM may find that some tasks can be large enough that it would be reasonable for more Characters to help.

=== Difficulty Class ===
Some checks are made against a Difficulty Class (DC). The DC is a number set by the GM (using the skill rules as a guideline) that a character must attain to succeed.
{| class="wikitable"
|+Table: Difficulty Class Examples:
! style="text-algin:left;"|Difficulty (DC)
! Example (Skill Used)

|-
| Very easy (0)||Notice something large in plain sight (Spot)
|-
| Easy (5)||Climb a knotted rope (Climb)
|-
| Average (10)||Hear an approaching security guard (Listen)
|-
| Tough (15)||Disarm an explosive (Demolitions)
|-
| Challenging (20)||Swim against a strong current (Swim)
|-
| Formidable (25)||Break into a secure computer system (Computer Use)
|-
| Heroic (30)||Leap across a 30-foot chasm (Jump)
|-
| Superheroic (35)||Convince the guards that even though you’re not wearing an ID badge and aren’t on their list, they should let you into the building (Bluff)
|-
| Nearly impossible (40)||Track a trained commando through the forests of Brazil on a moonless night after 12 days of rainfall (Survival)
|}

=== Opposed Checks ===
Some skill checks are opposed checks. They are made against a randomized number, usually another character’s skill check result.
For ties on opposed checks, the character with the higher key ability score wins. If those scores are the same, roll again.

{| class="wikitable"
|+Table: Example Opposed Checks::
! style="text-algin:left;"|Task
! Skill
! Opposing Skill

|-
| Sneak up on someone||Move Silently||Listen
|-
| Con someone||Bluff||Sense Motive
|-
| Hide from someone||Hide||Spot
|-
| Win a car race||Drive||Drive
|-
| Pretend to be someone else||Disguise||Spot
|-
| Steal a key chain||Sleight of Hand||Spot
|-
| Create a fake ID||Forgery||Forgery
|}

=== Favorable and Unfavorable Conditions ===
Some situations may make a skill easier or harder to use, resulting in a bonus or penalty to the skill modifier or a change to the skill check’s DC. This comes in the form of the Advantage and Disadvantage system.
The GM can alter the odds of success in four ways to take into account exceptional circumstances:
# Give the skill user a Moderate +2 circumstance bonus to represent conditions that improve performance, such as having the perfect tool for the job, getting help from another character, or working under conditions that are significantly better than normal.
# Give the skill user a Moderate –2 circumstance penalty to represent conditions that hamper performance, such as being forced to use improvised tools or possessing misleading information.
# Reduce the DC by 2 to represent circumstances that make the task easier, such as having a friendly audience when making a Perform check or searching for information on an extremely well documented topic with a Computer Use check.
# Increase the DC by 2 to represent circumstances that make the task harder, such as making a Perform check in front of a hostile audience or searching for information on a very poorly documented topic with a Computer Use check.

Conditions that affect a character’s ability to perform the skill change the character’s skill modifier. Conditions that modify how well the character must perform the skill to succeed change the DC. A bonus on a character’s skill modifier or a reduction in the DC of the check have the same result—they create a better chance for success. But they represent different circumstances, and sometimes that difference is important. Changing the Character's Ability/Skill is considered an Advantage/Disadvantage and the rules for applying these changes take effect. However adjusting DC can be done secretly at the discretion of the GM and does not have to follow the Advantage/Disadvantage rules.

=== Time and Skill Checks ===
Using a skill might take a round, several rounds, or even longer. It might take no time at all. Types of actions define how long activities take to perform within the framework of a combat round (3 seconds) and how movement is treated with respect to the activity. See the skill description for specifies on how long a skill takes to use.

In general, using a skill that requires concentration while in close combat is dangerous. Nearby opponents can make Attacks of Opportunity against a character when he or she lets his or her guard down.

=== Tools ===
Some skill applications require the use of tools. If tools are needed, the specific items required are mentioned in the skill description. If the character doesn’t have the appropriate tools, he or she can still attempt to use the skill, but the character takes a Major –4 disadvantage on his or her check.

A character may be able to put together some impromptu tools to make the check. If the GM allows it, reduce the penalty to Moderate –2 (instead of –4) for using impromptu tools. It usually takes some time (several minutes to an hour or more) to collect or create a set of impromptu tools, and it may require a skill check as well.

=== Skill Synergy ===
Sometimes, the GM may decide that having one skill provides a bonus when a character uses another skill in certain situations. The character must have at least 5 ranks in the related skill to gain this synergy bonus, and the GM must agree that the two skills can complement each other in the given situation. In such cases, the character receives a Moderate +2 synergy bonus on the skill check. Any additional bonuses must follow the Advantage/Disadvantage rules.

== Ability Checks ==
Sometimes a character tries to do something to which no specific skill applies. In these cases, the character makes an ability check: Roll 1d20 and apply the appropriate ability modifier. The GM assigns a DC, or sets up an opposed check when two characters are engaged in a contest using one ability against another. In some cases, a test of one’s ability doesn’t involve luck. When two characters arm wrestle, for example, the stronger character simply wins. In the case of identical scores, make opposed Strength checks.

Example Ability Checks:
;Strength
: Forcing open a jammed or locked door
;Dexterity
: Tying a rope
;Constitution
: Holding one’s breath
;Intelligence
: Navigating a maze
;Wisdom
: Recognize a stranger you’ve seen before
;Charisma
: Getting yourself noticed in a crowd

There is also Ability Saves which are explained in the [[Combat|Combat]] section.

== Modifier Types and Stacking ==
A modifier provides a bonus (a positive modifier) or a penalty (a negative modifier) to a die roll. Bonuses with specific descriptors, such as “equipment bonus,” generally don’t stack (combine for cumulative effect) with others of the same type. In those cases, only the best bonus of that type applies. The only specific bonuses that stack are dodge bonuses, synergy bonuses, and sometimes circumstance bonuses. Circumstance bonuses stack only if they’re provided by differing circumstances; if two circumstance bonuses caused by similar circumstances apply, they don’t stack. Specific bonuses that don’t stack include competence, cover, equipment, morale, natural armor, and size.
If the game setting includes magic or other supernatural effects, there can also be deflection, enhancement, enlargement, haste, inherent, insight, luck, profane, resistance, and sacred bonus descriptors. None of these bonuses stack.

Any bonus without a descriptor (such as simply a “+1 bonus”) stacks with other bonuses.

All penalties stack, regardless of their descriptors.

SkillsBasics

2016-01-16T00:13:28Z

173.203.4.162: /* Taking 10 and Taking 20 */

Below is the rules for the use of skills in the game. Skills can seam daunting at first. However realize that not all skills or skill rules will apply too your character. It is unlikely that you will ever use all the skills available for even a fully leveled up character. If you want to review the skills themselves a list of all skills can be found in the [[Skills|Skills]] section.

== All About Skills ==
Skills are common abilities or groups of abilities considered to be actions that the Character can before in game. All skills are associated with an ability score. A d20 is rolled to determine the output of any skill action. Players add bonuses to the d20 roll in the form of d20 + Skill Ranks + Associated Ability Modifier + Misc Mods. Ranks in a skill shows that a Character has trained to get better at that skill. For example the Skill Athletics represents a set of different actions like "Swimming", "Jumping", "Climbing" and so on. They all fall under the Ability of Strength.

Skill checks are usually against some Difficulty Class or DC. Usually this number is predetermined by the GM using rules in the [[Skills|Skills]] section. However skills sometimes may also be against other skills. Such as someones Stealth check may be used as the DC for someone's Perception check.

At each level including level one, a character gets skill points that can be spent to buy ranks in a skill. The character's [[Future_Hero_Base_Class|Base Class]] and Intelligence modifier determines the number of points per level a character gets. The minimum is 1 even if the Intelligence modifier is a negative. The Player can choose not to spend a skill point until the next level. Meaning any unspent skill points roll over to the next level. The maximum rank a skill can have is the level of the Character.

All skills have certain attributes.
# Class/Non-Class
# Natural/Unnatural
# Trained/Untrained
# Rank Dependent

The different attributes will be explained in more detail below:

=== Class Skills ===

In addition to other customizations, each class has a number of favored skills, called class skills. It is easier for your character to become more proficient in these skills, as they represent part of his professional training and constant practice. There are several advantages too class skills. First all class skills are considered to also be trained even if you do not have a rank in it. Secondly in order to add ranks to a class skill the Player only needs to spend one skill point. All non-class skills require two skill points to gain a single rank.

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Modifying Character Sheet: To record what skills are class skills on your character sheet there is a check box on the far left of the skill in question. There are actually two little check boxes. The first box to the left of the skill name is for recording if the skill has been Trained by spending a point in it. (More on Trained/Untrained in the following section). However the next box over is where you can record that the skill is indeed a class skill.
</pre>

=== Natural/Unnatural ===

Skills can either be Natural implying that the average person in the Future Path universe knows how to perform this particular action or unnatural implying that it requires training before use. For example the Skill Perception is a Natural skill. Being able to perceive the environment around yourself using some form of sense. Like smell, site, sound or others. This should come Natural to people. However there are also Unnatural skills. Such as crafting. Crafting is not something that a person is just born knowing how to do. And even if the knowledge was implanted genetically that knowledge came from somewhere first.

The difference is that Natural skills do not require that the be Trained first. (More on Training in the section below) Unnatural skills cannot be used at all unless the Character trains in that skill first. Even though Natural skills can be used without being Trained that do not get a bonus from there associated Ability Mod until they are trained.

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Character Sheet: On the Character sheet skills that are Unnatural are identified with a '*' next too there name. You can also see by looking at the Skills page.
</pre>

=== Trained/Untrained ===

Unnatural skills require training before use. Training a skill requires a single skill point. Natural skills do not require training too use but without training a Character cannot apply his/her associated ability modifier. All class skills are automatically considered trained.

<pre style="white-space: pre-wrap;
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Modifying Character Sheet: To denote that a skill is Trained there is a small check box to the left of the skill in question. To the right of the the class skill check box. You can use that check box to record that you have Trained the skill. However to show what a skill type is you do not need to edit the character sheet. Skill types are a predetermined part of the game rules. The character sheet denotes trained skills from natural skills with a '*' next to the skill name.
</pre>

=== Rank Dependent Skills ===

The third and finial type of skill is "Rank Dependent". All "Rank Dependent" skills are considered to also be Unnatural. See the above section "Natural/Unnatural" for more on that. All Rank Dependent skills means is that the best possible outcome is predetermined by the rank of the skill. This does not effect the Difficulty of the task. The target "DC" is still the same. The best way to explain is with the Language skill which is considered Rank Dependent. If you have a skill rank of 5 in "Common Human" it means that you are fluent in it. You may not completely sound native but you will likely fool most. Another player only has a skill rank of 1 in "Common Human". That Player is just learning to speak/write and understand that language. If you are simply handed a paper or holo message in Human language that happens to be garbled. You must roll a Skill check to see if you can understand the message. The DC is the same 15 for both players. Not only does the first player with a rank of 5 in that language has a better chance (because the player can add the +5 to his skill check) but his best possible outcome is that he can completely understand the message. However the best possible outcome for the player with only 1 rank is only a word here or there. The DC is the same for both. But the outcome if they succeed is different.

This means that ranks in some skills will matter more. It may become more important. A full list of skills that are Rank Dependent is below:

# [[Craft|Craft]]
# [[Perform|Perform]]
# [[Language|Language]]
# [[Tech|Tech]]

== Using Skills ==
Using a skill is as simple as rolling a d20 and adding the Skill Mod Total.

'''1d20 + Skill Modifier Total'''

(Skill Modifier = Skill Ranks + Ability Modifier + Miscellaneous Modifiers)

However there are several side notes too consider.
# Is this skill usable in combat?
# If I use this skill in combat does this provoke an Attack of Opportunity
# How long does it take to use this Skill?
# If I fail what is the consequences? Can I try again?

The above questions are all answered on a per skill biases on the [[Skills|Skills]] page. Luckily Characters at level 1 usually only have a few skills so learning how to use a skill isn't difficult if you are a Player. However if you are the GM you should review all the skills in the [[Skills|Skills]] page before game play. You may also want to record what skills each player has.

;Skill Ranks: A character’s ranks in a skill is based on the number of skill points the character has invested in the skill. Some skills can be used even if the character has no ranks in the skill; doing this is known as making an untrained skill check. Remember that this can be only done with "natural" skills. And a character can only add ability modifiers to a skill if it is 'Trained'.

;Ability Modifier: The ability modifier used in the skill check is the modifier of the skill’s key ability (the ability associated with the skill’s use). The key ability of a skill is noted in its description. Here is also a list of skills by their ability:

:: '''Strength''':
* [[Athletics|Athletics]]
:: '''Dexterity''':
* [[Acrobatics|Acrobatics]], [[Drive|Drive]], [[Escape Artist|Escape Artist]], [[Pilot|Pilot]], [[Ride|Ride]], [[Sleight of Hand|Sleight of Hand]], [[Stealth|Stealth]]
:: '''Constitution''':
* None
:: '''Intelligence''':
* [[Computer Use|Computer Use]], [[Craft|Craft]], [[Decipher Script|Decipher Script]], [[Demolitions|Demolitions]], [[Disable Device|Disable Device]], [[Knowledge|Knowledge]], [[Study|Study]]
:: '''Wisdom''':
* [[Perception|Perception]], [[Profession|Profession]], [[Sense Motive|Sense Motive]], [[Survival|Survival]], [[Treat Injury|Treat Injury]]
; '''Charisma''':
* [[Bluff|Bluff]], [[Diplomacy|Diplomacy]], [[Disguise|Disguise]], [[Handle Animal|Handle Animal]], [[Intimidate|Intimidate]], [[Perform|Perform]]

;Miscellaneous Modifiers: Miscellaneous modifiers include bonuses provided by feats, class features and species. Miscellaneous may also include disadvantages such as the ones associated with the non-proficient use of armor, among others.

=== Skill Checks ===
When your character uses a skill, he isn't guaranteed success. In order to determine success, whenever you attempt to use a skill, you must make a skill check. Unlike with attack rolls and saving throws, a natural roll of 20 on the d20 is not an automatic success when making a skill check, and a natural roll of 1 is not an automatic failure.

Each skill rank grants a +1 bonus on checks made using that skill. When you make a skill check, you roll 1d20 and then add your ranks and the appropriate ability score modifier to the result of this check. If your ability score provides a penalty instead of a bonus it takes effect no matter if the skill is Trained or not. Skills can be further modified by a wide variety of sources, by your species, by a class ability, by equipment, by technological effects or items, and so on.

If the result of your skill check is equal to or greater than the Difficulty Class (or DC) of the task you are attempting to accomplish, you succeed. If it is less than the DC, you fail. Some tasks have varying levels of success and failure depending on how much your check is above or below the required DC. Some skill checks are opposed by the target's skill check. When making an opposed skill check, the attempt is successful if your check result exceeds the result of the target.

==== Trying Again ====
If a character fails on a skill check, he or she can sometimes try again. Check the skill description to find out if, and under what circumstances, a character can try again. Many skills, however, have natural consequences for failing that must be accounted for. Some skills can’t be tried again once a check has failed for a particular task. If the use of a skill carries no penalty for failure, a character can take 20 and assume that he or she keeps trying until he or she eventually succeeds.

A skill check usually takes 1 to 2 minutes of in game time. So why not just keep rolling till you succeed? Well firstly it does take up time. Think of the game play like a movie. There are scenes and the characters in those scenes often do not have time to spend wasting about. The GM should consider the time the Player is spending attempting the skill checks. Also sometimes the GM may setup ambushes or other actions. The GM can set a time limit which is usually just 2 minutes. That gives the players enough time to preform the check before the next scene occurs.

==== Taking 10 and Taking 20 ====
A skill check represents an attempt to accomplish some goal, usually while under some sort of time pressure or distraction. Sometimes, though, a character can use a skill under more favorable conditions, increasing the odds of success. A character cannot take 10 or 20 if they do not have the time in game. The Player must also be aware of the time within the game. Taking 10 or 20 means actually taking 10 or 20 minutes to preform the action associated with the skill. They must be willing to spend that amount of time doing just that and nothing else. (Except for talking too other Characters)

;Taking 10

: When your character is not in immediate danger or distracted, you may choose to take 10. Instead of rolling 1d20 for the skill check, calculate your result as if you had rolled a 10. For many routine tasks, taking 10 makes them automatically successful. Distractions or threats (such as combat) make it impossible for a character to take 10. In most cases, taking 10 is purely a safety measure—you know (or expect) that an average roll will succeed but fear that a poor roll might fail, so you elect to settle for the average roll (a 10). Taking 10 is especially useful in situations where a particularly high roll wouldn't help.

;Taking 20

: When you have plenty of time, you are faced with no threats or distractions, and the skill being attempted carries no penalties for failure, you can take 20. In other words, if you a d20 roll enough times, eventually you will get a 20. Instead of rolling 1d20 for the skill check, just calculate your result as if you had rolled a 20.

: Taking 20 means you are trying until you get it right, and it assumes that you fail many times before succeeding. Taking 20 takes 20 times as long as making a single check would take (usually 2 minutes for a skill that takes 1 round or less to perform).

: Since taking 20 assumes that your character will fail many times before succeeding, your character would automatically incur any penalties for failure before he or she could complete the task (hence why it is generally not allowed with skills that carry such penalties). Common “take 20” skills include Disable Device (when used to open locks), Escape Artist, and Perception (when attempting to find traps).

;Ability Checks
: The normal take 10 and take 20 rules apply for ability checks.

=== Aiding Another ===
In some situations, characters can cooperate to accomplish a given task. One character is designated as the leader in the effort, while the others try to aid the character in his or her efforts. A character aids another by making a skill check (DC 10). This is an attack action, and the character can’t take 10 on this check. If the check succeeds, the character’s ally gains a Moderate +2 circumstance bonus to apply to his or her skill check to complete the task.

In many cases, a character’s help won’t be beneficial, or only a limited number of characters can help at the same time. The GM limits aid another attempts as he or she sees fit for the conditions.

=== Difficulty Class ===
Some checks are made against a Difficulty Class (DC). The DC is a number set by the GM (using the skill rules as a guideline) that a character must attain to succeed.
{| class="wikitable"
|+Table: Difficulty Class Examples:
! style="text-algin:left;"|Difficulty (DC)
! Example (Skill Used)

|-
| Very easy (0)||Notice something large in plain sight (Spot)
|-
| Easy (5)||Climb a knotted rope (Climb)
|-
| Average (10)||Hear an approaching security guard (Listen)
|-
| Tough (15)||Disarm an explosive (Demolitions)
|-
| Challenging (20)||Swim against a strong current (Swim)
|-
| Formidable (25)||Break into a secure computer system (Computer Use)
|-
| Heroic (30)||Leap across a 30-foot chasm (Jump)
|-
| Superheroic (35)||Convince the guards that even though you’re not wearing an ID badge and aren’t on their list, they should let you into the building (Bluff)
|-
| Nearly impossible (40)||Track a trained commando through the forests of Brazil on a moonless night after 12 days of rainfall (Survival)
|}

=== Opposed Checks ===
Some skill checks are opposed checks. They are made against a randomized number, usually another character’s skill check result.
For ties on opposed checks, the character with the higher key ability score wins. If those scores are the same, roll again.

{| class="wikitable"
|+Table: Example Opposed Checks::
! style="text-algin:left;"|Task
! Skill
! Opposing Skill

|-
| Sneak up on someone||Move Silently||Listen
|-
| Con someone||Bluff||Sense Motive
|-
| Hide from someone||Hide||Spot
|-
| Win a car race||Drive||Drive
|-
| Pretend to be someone else||Disguise||Spot
|-
| Steal a key chain||Sleight of Hand||Spot
|-
| Create a fake ID||Forgery||Forgery
|}

=== Favorable and Unfavorable Conditions ===
Some situations may make a skill easier or harder to use, resulting in a bonus or penalty to the skill modifier or a change to the skill check’s DC. This comes in the form of the Advantage and Disadvantage system.
The GM can alter the odds of success in four ways to take into account exceptional circumstances:
# Give the skill user a Moderate +2 circumstance bonus to represent conditions that improve performance, such as having the perfect tool for the job, getting help from another character, or working under conditions that are significantly better than normal.
# Give the skill user a Moderate –2 circumstance penalty to represent conditions that hamper performance, such as being forced to use improvised tools or possessing misleading information.
# Reduce the DC by 2 to represent circumstances that make the task easier, such as having a friendly audience when making a Perform check or searching for information on an extremely well documented topic with a Computer Use check.
# Increase the DC by 2 to represent circumstances that make the task harder, such as making a Perform check in front of a hostile audience or searching for information on a very poorly documented topic with a Computer Use check.

Conditions that affect a character’s ability to perform the skill change the character’s skill modifier. Conditions that modify how well the character must perform the skill to succeed change the DC. A bonus on a character’s skill modifier or a reduction in the DC of the check have the same result—they create a better chance for success. But they represent different circumstances, and sometimes that difference is important. Changing the Character's Ability/Skill is considered an Advantage/Disadvantage and the rules for applying these changes take effect. However adjusting DC can be done secretly at the discretion of the GM and does not have to follow the Advantage/Disadvantage rules.

=== Time and Skill Checks ===
Using a skill might take a round, several rounds, or even longer. It might take no time at all. Types of actions define how long activities take to perform within the framework of a combat round (3 seconds) and how movement is treated with respect to the activity. See the skill description for specifies on how long a skill takes to use.

In general, using a skill that requires concentration while in close combat is dangerous. Nearby opponents can make Attacks of Opportunity against a character when he or she lets his or her guard down.

=== Tools ===
Some skill applications require the use of tools. If tools are needed, the specific items required are mentioned in the skill description. If the character doesn’t have the appropriate tools, he or she can still attempt to use the skill, but the character takes a Major –4 disadvantage on his or her check.

A character may be able to put together some impromptu tools to make the check. If the GM allows it, reduce the penalty to Moderate –2 (instead of –4) for using impromptu tools. It usually takes some time (several minutes to an hour or more) to collect or create a set of impromptu tools, and it may require a skill check as well.

=== Skill Synergy ===
Sometimes, the GM may decide that having one skill provides a bonus when a character uses another skill in certain situations. The character must have at least 5 ranks in the related skill to gain this synergy bonus, and the GM must agree that the two skills can complement each other in the given situation. In such cases, the character receives a Moderate +2 synergy bonus on the skill check. Any additional bonuses must follow the Advantage/Disadvantage rules.

== Ability Checks ==
Sometimes a character tries to do something to which no specific skill applies. In these cases, the character makes an ability check: Roll 1d20 and apply the appropriate ability modifier. The GM assigns a DC, or sets up an opposed check when two characters are engaged in a contest using one ability against another. In some cases, a test of one’s ability doesn’t involve luck. When two characters arm wrestle, for example, the stronger character simply wins. In the case of identical scores, make opposed Strength checks.

Example Ability Checks:
;Strength
: Forcing open a jammed or locked door
;Dexterity
: Tying a rope
;Constitution
: Holding one’s breath
;Intelligence
: Navigating a maze
;Wisdom
: Recognize a stranger you’ve seen before
;Charisma
: Getting yourself noticed in a crowd

There is also Ability Saves which are explained in the [[Combat|Combat]] section.

== Modifier Types and Stacking ==
A modifier provides a bonus (a positive modifier) or a penalty (a negative modifier) to a die roll. Bonuses with specific descriptors, such as “equipment bonus,” generally don’t stack (combine for cumulative effect) with others of the same type. In those cases, only the best bonus of that type applies. The only specific bonuses that stack are dodge bonuses, synergy bonuses, and sometimes circumstance bonuses. Circumstance bonuses stack only if they’re provided by differing circumstances; if two circumstance bonuses caused by similar circumstances apply, they don’t stack. Specific bonuses that don’t stack include competence, cover, equipment, morale, natural armor, and size.
If the game setting includes magic or other supernatural effects, there can also be deflection, enhancement, enlargement, haste, inherent, insight, luck, profane, resistance, and sacred bonus descriptors. None of these bonuses stack.

Any bonus without a descriptor (such as simply a “+1 bonus”) stacks with other bonuses.

All penalties stack, regardless of their descriptors.

SkillsBasics

2016-01-16T00:13:08Z

173.203.4.162: /* Taking 10 and Taking 20 */

Below is the rules for the use of skills in the game. Skills can seam daunting at first. However realize that not all skills or skill rules will apply too your character. It is unlikely that you will ever use all the skills available for even a fully leveled up character. If you want to review the skills themselves a list of all skills can be found in the [[Skills|Skills]] section.

== All About Skills ==
Skills are common abilities or groups of abilities considered to be actions that the Character can before in game. All skills are associated with an ability score. A d20 is rolled to determine the output of any skill action. Players add bonuses to the d20 roll in the form of d20 + Skill Ranks + Associated Ability Modifier + Misc Mods. Ranks in a skill shows that a Character has trained to get better at that skill. For example the Skill Athletics represents a set of different actions like "Swimming", "Jumping", "Climbing" and so on. They all fall under the Ability of Strength.

Skill checks are usually against some Difficulty Class or DC. Usually this number is predetermined by the GM using rules in the [[Skills|Skills]] section. However skills sometimes may also be against other skills. Such as someones Stealth check may be used as the DC for someone's Perception check.

At each level including level one, a character gets skill points that can be spent to buy ranks in a skill. The character's [[Future_Hero_Base_Class|Base Class]] and Intelligence modifier determines the number of points per level a character gets. The minimum is 1 even if the Intelligence modifier is a negative. The Player can choose not to spend a skill point until the next level. Meaning any unspent skill points roll over to the next level. The maximum rank a skill can have is the level of the Character.

All skills have certain attributes.
# Class/Non-Class
# Natural/Unnatural
# Trained/Untrained
# Rank Dependent

The different attributes will be explained in more detail below:

=== Class Skills ===

In addition to other customizations, each class has a number of favored skills, called class skills. It is easier for your character to become more proficient in these skills, as they represent part of his professional training and constant practice. There are several advantages too class skills. First all class skills are considered to also be trained even if you do not have a rank in it. Secondly in order to add ranks to a class skill the Player only needs to spend one skill point. All non-class skills require two skill points to gain a single rank.

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Modifying Character Sheet: To record what skills are class skills on your character sheet there is a check box on the far left of the skill in question. There are actually two little check boxes. The first box to the left of the skill name is for recording if the skill has been Trained by spending a point in it. (More on Trained/Untrained in the following section). However the next box over is where you can record that the skill is indeed a class skill.
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=== Natural/Unnatural ===

Skills can either be Natural implying that the average person in the Future Path universe knows how to perform this particular action or unnatural implying that it requires training before use. For example the Skill Perception is a Natural skill. Being able to perceive the environment around yourself using some form of sense. Like smell, site, sound or others. This should come Natural to people. However there are also Unnatural skills. Such as crafting. Crafting is not something that a person is just born knowing how to do. And even if the knowledge was implanted genetically that knowledge came from somewhere first.

The difference is that Natural skills do not require that the be Trained first. (More on Training in the section below) Unnatural skills cannot be used at all unless the Character trains in that skill first. Even though Natural skills can be used without being Trained that do not get a bonus from there associated Ability Mod until they are trained.

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Character Sheet: On the Character sheet skills that are Unnatural are identified with a '*' next too there name. You can also see by looking at the Skills page.
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=== Trained/Untrained ===

Unnatural skills require training before use. Training a skill requires a single skill point. Natural skills do not require training too use but without training a Character cannot apply his/her associated ability modifier. All class skills are automatically considered trained.

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Modifying Character Sheet: To denote that a skill is Trained there is a small check box to the left of the skill in question. To the right of the the class skill check box. You can use that check box to record that you have Trained the skill. However to show what a skill type is you do not need to edit the character sheet. Skill types are a predetermined part of the game rules. The character sheet denotes trained skills from natural skills with a '*' next to the skill name.
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=== Rank Dependent Skills ===

The third and finial type of skill is "Rank Dependent". All "Rank Dependent" skills are considered to also be Unnatural. See the above section "Natural/Unnatural" for more on that. All Rank Dependent skills means is that the best possible outcome is predetermined by the rank of the skill. This does not effect the Difficulty of the task. The target "DC" is still the same. The best way to explain is with the Language skill which is considered Rank Dependent. If you have a skill rank of 5 in "Common Human" it means that you are fluent in it. You may not completely sound native but you will likely fool most. Another player only has a skill rank of 1 in "Common Human". That Player is just learning to speak/write and understand that language. If you are simply handed a paper or holo message in Human language that happens to be garbled. You must roll a Skill check to see if you can understand the message. The DC is the same 15 for both players. Not only does the first player with a rank of 5 in that language has a better chance (because the player can add the +5 to his skill check) but his best possible outcome is that he can completely understand the message. However the best possible outcome for the player with only 1 rank is only a word here or there. The DC is the same for both. But the outcome if they succeed is different.

This means that ranks in some skills will matter more. It may become more important. A full list of skills that are Rank Dependent is below:

# [[Craft|Craft]]
# [[Perform|Perform]]
# [[Language|Language]]
# [[Tech|Tech]]

== Using Skills ==
Using a skill is as simple as rolling a d20 and adding the Skill Mod Total.

'''1d20 + Skill Modifier Total'''

(Skill Modifier = Skill Ranks + Ability Modifier + Miscellaneous Modifiers)

However there are several side notes too consider.
# Is this skill usable in combat?
# If I use this skill in combat does this provoke an Attack of Opportunity
# How long does it take to use this Skill?
# If I fail what is the consequences? Can I try again?

The above questions are all answered on a per skill biases on the [[Skills|Skills]] page. Luckily Characters at level 1 usually only have a few skills so learning how to use a skill isn't difficult if you are a Player. However if you are the GM you should review all the skills in the [[Skills|Skills]] page before game play. You may also want to record what skills each player has.

;Skill Ranks: A character’s ranks in a skill is based on the number of skill points the character has invested in the skill. Some skills can be used even if the character has no ranks in the skill; doing this is known as making an untrained skill check. Remember that this can be only done with "natural" skills. And a character can only add ability modifiers to a skill if it is 'Trained'.

;Ability Modifier: The ability modifier used in the skill check is the modifier of the skill’s key ability (the ability associated with the skill’s use). The key ability of a skill is noted in its description. Here is also a list of skills by their ability:

:: '''Strength''':
* [[Athletics|Athletics]]
:: '''Dexterity''':
* [[Acrobatics|Acrobatics]], [[Drive|Drive]], [[Escape Artist|Escape Artist]], [[Pilot|Pilot]], [[Ride|Ride]], [[Sleight of Hand|Sleight of Hand]], [[Stealth|Stealth]]
:: '''Constitution''':
* None
:: '''Intelligence''':
* [[Computer Use|Computer Use]], [[Craft|Craft]], [[Decipher Script|Decipher Script]], [[Demolitions|Demolitions]], [[Disable Device|Disable Device]], [[Knowledge|Knowledge]], [[Study|Study]]
:: '''Wisdom''':
* [[Perception|Perception]], [[Profession|Profession]], [[Sense Motive|Sense Motive]], [[Survival|Survival]], [[Treat Injury|Treat Injury]]
; '''Charisma''':
* [[Bluff|Bluff]], [[Diplomacy|Diplomacy]], [[Disguise|Disguise]], [[Handle Animal|Handle Animal]], [[Intimidate|Intimidate]], [[Perform|Perform]]

;Miscellaneous Modifiers: Miscellaneous modifiers include bonuses provided by feats, class features and species. Miscellaneous may also include disadvantages such as the ones associated with the non-proficient use of armor, among others.

=== Skill Checks ===
When your character uses a skill, he isn't guaranteed success. In order to determine success, whenever you attempt to use a skill, you must make a skill check. Unlike with attack rolls and saving throws, a natural roll of 20 on the d20 is not an automatic success when making a skill check, and a natural roll of 1 is not an automatic failure.

Each skill rank grants a +1 bonus on checks made using that skill. When you make a skill check, you roll 1d20 and then add your ranks and the appropriate ability score modifier to the result of this check. If your ability score provides a penalty instead of a bonus it takes effect no matter if the skill is Trained or not. Skills can be further modified by a wide variety of sources, by your species, by a class ability, by equipment, by technological effects or items, and so on.

If the result of your skill check is equal to or greater than the Difficulty Class (or DC) of the task you are attempting to accomplish, you succeed. If it is less than the DC, you fail. Some tasks have varying levels of success and failure depending on how much your check is above or below the required DC. Some skill checks are opposed by the target's skill check. When making an opposed skill check, the attempt is successful if your check result exceeds the result of the target.

==== Trying Again ====
If a character fails on a skill check, he or she can sometimes try again. Check the skill description to find out if, and under what circumstances, a character can try again. Many skills, however, have natural consequences for failing that must be accounted for. Some skills can’t be tried again once a check has failed for a particular task. If the use of a skill carries no penalty for failure, a character can take 20 and assume that he or she keeps trying until he or she eventually succeeds.

A skill check usually takes 1 to 2 minutes of in game time. So why not just keep rolling till you succeed? Well firstly it does take up time. Think of the game play like a movie. There are scenes and the characters in those scenes often do not have time to spend wasting about. The GM should consider the time the Player is spending attempting the skill checks. Also sometimes the GM may setup ambushes or other actions. The GM can set a time limit which is usually just 2 minutes. That gives the players enough time to preform the check before the next scene occurs.

==== Taking 10 and Taking 20 ====
A skill check represents an attempt to accomplish some goal, usually while under some sort of time pressure or distraction. Sometimes, though, a character can use a skill under more favorable conditions, increasing the odds of success. A character cannot take 10 or 20 if they do not have the time in game. The Player must also be aware of the time within the game. Taking 10 or 20 means actually taking 10 or 20 minutes to preform the action associated with the skill. They must be willing to spend that amount of time doing just that and nothing else.

;Taking 10

: When your character is not in immediate danger or distracted, you may choose to take 10. Instead of rolling 1d20 for the skill check, calculate your result as if you had rolled a 10. For many routine tasks, taking 10 makes them automatically successful. Distractions or threats (such as combat) make it impossible for a character to take 10. In most cases, taking 10 is purely a safety measure—you know (or expect) that an average roll will succeed but fear that a poor roll might fail, so you elect to settle for the average roll (a 10). Taking 10 is especially useful in situations where a particularly high roll wouldn't help.

;Taking 20

: When you have plenty of time, you are faced with no threats or distractions, and the skill being attempted carries no penalties for failure, you can take 20. In other words, if you a d20 roll enough times, eventually you will get a 20. Instead of rolling 1d20 for the skill check, just calculate your result as if you had rolled a 20.

: Taking 20 means you are trying until you get it right, and it assumes that you fail many times before succeeding. Taking 20 takes 20 times as long as making a single check would take (usually 2 minutes for a skill that takes 1 round or less to perform).

: Since taking 20 assumes that your character will fail many times before succeeding, your character would automatically incur any penalties for failure before he or she could complete the task (hence why it is generally not allowed with skills that carry such penalties). Common “take 20” skills include Disable Device (when used to open locks), Escape Artist, and Perception (when attempting to find traps).

;Ability Checks
: The normal take 10 and take 20 rules apply for ability checks.

=== Aiding Another ===
In some situations, characters can cooperate to accomplish a given task. One character is designated as the leader in the effort, while the others try to aid the character in his or her efforts. A character aids another by making a skill check (DC 10). This is an attack action, and the character can’t take 10 on this check. If the check succeeds, the character’s ally gains a Moderate +2 circumstance bonus to apply to his or her skill check to complete the task.

In many cases, a character’s help won’t be beneficial, or only a limited number of characters can help at the same time. The GM limits aid another attempts as he or she sees fit for the conditions.

=== Difficulty Class ===
Some checks are made against a Difficulty Class (DC). The DC is a number set by the GM (using the skill rules as a guideline) that a character must attain to succeed.
{| class="wikitable"
|+Table: Difficulty Class Examples:
! style="text-algin:left;"|Difficulty (DC)
! Example (Skill Used)

|-
| Very easy (0)||Notice something large in plain sight (Spot)
|-
| Easy (5)||Climb a knotted rope (Climb)
|-
| Average (10)||Hear an approaching security guard (Listen)
|-
| Tough (15)||Disarm an explosive (Demolitions)
|-
| Challenging (20)||Swim against a strong current (Swim)
|-
| Formidable (25)||Break into a secure computer system (Computer Use)
|-
| Heroic (30)||Leap across a 30-foot chasm (Jump)
|-
| Superheroic (35)||Convince the guards that even though you’re not wearing an ID badge and aren’t on their list, they should let you into the building (Bluff)
|-
| Nearly impossible (40)||Track a trained commando through the forests of Brazil on a moonless night after 12 days of rainfall (Survival)
|}

=== Opposed Checks ===
Some skill checks are opposed checks. They are made against a randomized number, usually another character’s skill check result.
For ties on opposed checks, the character with the higher key ability score wins. If those scores are the same, roll again.

{| class="wikitable"
|+Table: Example Opposed Checks::
! style="text-algin:left;"|Task
! Skill
! Opposing Skill

|-
| Sneak up on someone||Move Silently||Listen
|-
| Con someone||Bluff||Sense Motive
|-
| Hide from someone||Hide||Spot
|-
| Win a car race||Drive||Drive
|-
| Pretend to be someone else||Disguise||Spot
|-
| Steal a key chain||Sleight of Hand||Spot
|-
| Create a fake ID||Forgery||Forgery
|}

=== Favorable and Unfavorable Conditions ===
Some situations may make a skill easier or harder to use, resulting in a bonus or penalty to the skill modifier or a change to the skill check’s DC. This comes in the form of the Advantage and Disadvantage system.
The GM can alter the odds of success in four ways to take into account exceptional circumstances:
# Give the skill user a Moderate +2 circumstance bonus to represent conditions that improve performance, such as having the perfect tool for the job, getting help from another character, or working under conditions that are significantly better than normal.
# Give the skill user a Moderate –2 circumstance penalty to represent conditions that hamper performance, such as being forced to use improvised tools or possessing misleading information.
# Reduce the DC by 2 to represent circumstances that make the task easier, such as having a friendly audience when making a Perform check or searching for information on an extremely well documented topic with a Computer Use check.
# Increase the DC by 2 to represent circumstances that make the task harder, such as making a Perform check in front of a hostile audience or searching for information on a very poorly documented topic with a Computer Use check.

Conditions that affect a character’s ability to perform the skill change the character’s skill modifier. Conditions that modify how well the character must perform the skill to succeed change the DC. A bonus on a character’s skill modifier or a reduction in the DC of the check have the same result—they create a better chance for success. But they represent different circumstances, and sometimes that difference is important. Changing the Character's Ability/Skill is considered an Advantage/Disadvantage and the rules for applying these changes take effect. However adjusting DC can be done secretly at the discretion of the GM and does not have to follow the Advantage/Disadvantage rules.

=== Time and Skill Checks ===
Using a skill might take a round, several rounds, or even longer. It might take no time at all. Types of actions define how long activities take to perform within the framework of a combat round (3 seconds) and how movement is treated with respect to the activity. See the skill description for specifies on how long a skill takes to use.

In general, using a skill that requires concentration while in close combat is dangerous. Nearby opponents can make Attacks of Opportunity against a character when he or she lets his or her guard down.

=== Tools ===
Some skill applications require the use of tools. If tools are needed, the specific items required are mentioned in the skill description. If the character doesn’t have the appropriate tools, he or she can still attempt to use the skill, but the character takes a Major –4 disadvantage on his or her check.

A character may be able to put together some impromptu tools to make the check. If the GM allows it, reduce the penalty to Moderate –2 (instead of –4) for using impromptu tools. It usually takes some time (several minutes to an hour or more) to collect or create a set of impromptu tools, and it may require a skill check as well.

=== Skill Synergy ===
Sometimes, the GM may decide that having one skill provides a bonus when a character uses another skill in certain situations. The character must have at least 5 ranks in the related skill to gain this synergy bonus, and the GM must agree that the two skills can complement each other in the given situation. In such cases, the character receives a Moderate +2 synergy bonus on the skill check. Any additional bonuses must follow the Advantage/Disadvantage rules.

== Ability Checks ==
Sometimes a character tries to do something to which no specific skill applies. In these cases, the character makes an ability check: Roll 1d20 and apply the appropriate ability modifier. The GM assigns a DC, or sets up an opposed check when two characters are engaged in a contest using one ability against another. In some cases, a test of one’s ability doesn’t involve luck. When two characters arm wrestle, for example, the stronger character simply wins. In the case of identical scores, make opposed Strength checks.

Example Ability Checks:
;Strength
: Forcing open a jammed or locked door
;Dexterity
: Tying a rope
;Constitution
: Holding one’s breath
;Intelligence
: Navigating a maze
;Wisdom
: Recognize a stranger you’ve seen before
;Charisma
: Getting yourself noticed in a crowd

There is also Ability Saves which are explained in the [[Combat|Combat]] section.

== Modifier Types and Stacking ==
A modifier provides a bonus (a positive modifier) or a penalty (a negative modifier) to a die roll. Bonuses with specific descriptors, such as “equipment bonus,” generally don’t stack (combine for cumulative effect) with others of the same type. In those cases, only the best bonus of that type applies. The only specific bonuses that stack are dodge bonuses, synergy bonuses, and sometimes circumstance bonuses. Circumstance bonuses stack only if they’re provided by differing circumstances; if two circumstance bonuses caused by similar circumstances apply, they don’t stack. Specific bonuses that don’t stack include competence, cover, equipment, morale, natural armor, and size.
If the game setting includes magic or other supernatural effects, there can also be deflection, enhancement, enlargement, haste, inherent, insight, luck, profane, resistance, and sacred bonus descriptors. None of these bonuses stack.

Any bonus without a descriptor (such as simply a “+1 bonus”) stacks with other bonuses.

All penalties stack, regardless of their descriptors.

SkillsBasics

2016-01-16T00:08:17Z

173.203.4.162: /* Using Skills */

Below is the rules for the use of skills in the game. Skills can seam daunting at first. However realize that not all skills or skill rules will apply too your character. It is unlikely that you will ever use all the skills available for even a fully leveled up character. If you want to review the skills themselves a list of all skills can be found in the [[Skills|Skills]] section.

== All About Skills ==
Skills are common abilities or groups of abilities considered to be actions that the Character can before in game. All skills are associated with an ability score. A d20 is rolled to determine the output of any skill action. Players add bonuses to the d20 roll in the form of d20 + Skill Ranks + Associated Ability Modifier + Misc Mods. Ranks in a skill shows that a Character has trained to get better at that skill. For example the Skill Athletics represents a set of different actions like "Swimming", "Jumping", "Climbing" and so on. They all fall under the Ability of Strength.

Skill checks are usually against some Difficulty Class or DC. Usually this number is predetermined by the GM using rules in the [[Skills|Skills]] section. However skills sometimes may also be against other skills. Such as someones Stealth check may be used as the DC for someone's Perception check.

At each level including level one, a character gets skill points that can be spent to buy ranks in a skill. The character's [[Future_Hero_Base_Class|Base Class]] and Intelligence modifier determines the number of points per level a character gets. The minimum is 1 even if the Intelligence modifier is a negative. The Player can choose not to spend a skill point until the next level. Meaning any unspent skill points roll over to the next level. The maximum rank a skill can have is the level of the Character.

All skills have certain attributes.
# Class/Non-Class
# Natural/Unnatural
# Trained/Untrained
# Rank Dependent

The different attributes will be explained in more detail below:

=== Class Skills ===

In addition to other customizations, each class has a number of favored skills, called class skills. It is easier for your character to become more proficient in these skills, as they represent part of his professional training and constant practice. There are several advantages too class skills. First all class skills are considered to also be trained even if you do not have a rank in it. Secondly in order to add ranks to a class skill the Player only needs to spend one skill point. All non-class skills require two skill points to gain a single rank.

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Modifying Character Sheet: To record what skills are class skills on your character sheet there is a check box on the far left of the skill in question. There are actually two little check boxes. The first box to the left of the skill name is for recording if the skill has been Trained by spending a point in it. (More on Trained/Untrained in the following section). However the next box over is where you can record that the skill is indeed a class skill.
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=== Natural/Unnatural ===

Skills can either be Natural implying that the average person in the Future Path universe knows how to perform this particular action or unnatural implying that it requires training before use. For example the Skill Perception is a Natural skill. Being able to perceive the environment around yourself using some form of sense. Like smell, site, sound or others. This should come Natural to people. However there are also Unnatural skills. Such as crafting. Crafting is not something that a person is just born knowing how to do. And even if the knowledge was implanted genetically that knowledge came from somewhere first.

The difference is that Natural skills do not require that the be Trained first. (More on Training in the section below) Unnatural skills cannot be used at all unless the Character trains in that skill first. Even though Natural skills can be used without being Trained that do not get a bonus from there associated Ability Mod until they are trained.

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Character Sheet: On the Character sheet skills that are Unnatural are identified with a '*' next too there name. You can also see by looking at the Skills page.
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=== Trained/Untrained ===

Unnatural skills require training before use. Training a skill requires a single skill point. Natural skills do not require training too use but without training a Character cannot apply his/her associated ability modifier. All class skills are automatically considered trained.

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Modifying Character Sheet: To denote that a skill is Trained there is a small check box to the left of the skill in question. To the right of the the class skill check box. You can use that check box to record that you have Trained the skill. However to show what a skill type is you do not need to edit the character sheet. Skill types are a predetermined part of the game rules. The character sheet denotes trained skills from natural skills with a '*' next to the skill name.
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=== Rank Dependent Skills ===

The third and finial type of skill is "Rank Dependent". All "Rank Dependent" skills are considered to also be Unnatural. See the above section "Natural/Unnatural" for more on that. All Rank Dependent skills means is that the best possible outcome is predetermined by the rank of the skill. This does not effect the Difficulty of the task. The target "DC" is still the same. The best way to explain is with the Language skill which is considered Rank Dependent. If you have a skill rank of 5 in "Common Human" it means that you are fluent in it. You may not completely sound native but you will likely fool most. Another player only has a skill rank of 1 in "Common Human". That Player is just learning to speak/write and understand that language. If you are simply handed a paper or holo message in Human language that happens to be garbled. You must roll a Skill check to see if you can understand the message. The DC is the same 15 for both players. Not only does the first player with a rank of 5 in that language has a better chance (because the player can add the +5 to his skill check) but his best possible outcome is that he can completely understand the message. However the best possible outcome for the player with only 1 rank is only a word here or there. The DC is the same for both. But the outcome if they succeed is different.

This means that ranks in some skills will matter more. It may become more important. A full list of skills that are Rank Dependent is below:

# [[Craft|Craft]]
# [[Perform|Perform]]
# [[Language|Language]]
# [[Tech|Tech]]

== Using Skills ==
Using a skill is as simple as rolling a d20 and adding the Skill Mod Total.

'''1d20 + Skill Modifier Total'''

(Skill Modifier = Skill Ranks + Ability Modifier + Miscellaneous Modifiers)

However there are several side notes too consider.
# Is this skill usable in combat?
# If I use this skill in combat does this provoke an Attack of Opportunity
# How long does it take to use this Skill?
# If I fail what is the consequences? Can I try again?

The above questions are all answered on a per skill biases on the [[Skills|Skills]] page. Luckily Characters at level 1 usually only have a few skills so learning how to use a skill isn't difficult if you are a Player. However if you are the GM you should review all the skills in the [[Skills|Skills]] page before game play. You may also want to record what skills each player has.

;Skill Ranks: A character’s ranks in a skill is based on the number of skill points the character has invested in the skill. Some skills can be used even if the character has no ranks in the skill; doing this is known as making an untrained skill check. Remember that this can be only done with "natural" skills. And a character can only add ability modifiers to a skill if it is 'Trained'.

;Ability Modifier: The ability modifier used in the skill check is the modifier of the skill’s key ability (the ability associated with the skill’s use). The key ability of a skill is noted in its description. Here is also a list of skills by their ability:

:: '''Strength''':
* [[Athletics|Athletics]]
:: '''Dexterity''':
* [[Acrobatics|Acrobatics]], [[Drive|Drive]], [[Escape Artist|Escape Artist]], [[Pilot|Pilot]], [[Ride|Ride]], [[Sleight of Hand|Sleight of Hand]], [[Stealth|Stealth]]
:: '''Constitution''':
* None
:: '''Intelligence''':
* [[Computer Use|Computer Use]], [[Craft|Craft]], [[Decipher Script|Decipher Script]], [[Demolitions|Demolitions]], [[Disable Device|Disable Device]], [[Knowledge|Knowledge]], [[Study|Study]]
:: '''Wisdom''':
* [[Perception|Perception]], [[Profession|Profession]], [[Sense Motive|Sense Motive]], [[Survival|Survival]], [[Treat Injury|Treat Injury]]
; '''Charisma''':
* [[Bluff|Bluff]], [[Diplomacy|Diplomacy]], [[Disguise|Disguise]], [[Handle Animal|Handle Animal]], [[Intimidate|Intimidate]], [[Perform|Perform]]

;Miscellaneous Modifiers: Miscellaneous modifiers include bonuses provided by feats, class features and species. Miscellaneous may also include disadvantages such as the ones associated with the non-proficient use of armor, among others.

=== Skill Checks ===
When your character uses a skill, he isn't guaranteed success. In order to determine success, whenever you attempt to use a skill, you must make a skill check. Unlike with attack rolls and saving throws, a natural roll of 20 on the d20 is not an automatic success when making a skill check, and a natural roll of 1 is not an automatic failure.

Each skill rank grants a +1 bonus on checks made using that skill. When you make a skill check, you roll 1d20 and then add your ranks and the appropriate ability score modifier to the result of this check. If your ability score provides a penalty instead of a bonus it takes effect no matter if the skill is Trained or not. Skills can be further modified by a wide variety of sources, by your species, by a class ability, by equipment, by technological effects or items, and so on.

If the result of your skill check is equal to or greater than the Difficulty Class (or DC) of the task you are attempting to accomplish, you succeed. If it is less than the DC, you fail. Some tasks have varying levels of success and failure depending on how much your check is above or below the required DC. Some skill checks are opposed by the target's skill check. When making an opposed skill check, the attempt is successful if your check result exceeds the result of the target.

==== Trying Again ====
If a character fails on a skill check, he or she can sometimes try again. Check the skill description to find out if, and under what circumstances, a character can try again. Many skills, however, have natural consequences for failing that must be accounted for. Some skills can’t be tried again once a check has failed for a particular task. If the use of a skill carries no penalty for failure, a character can take 20 and assume that he or she keeps trying until he or she eventually succeeds.

A skill check usually takes 1 to 2 minutes of in game time. So why not just keep rolling till you succeed? Well firstly it does take up time. Think of the game play like a movie. There are scenes and the characters in those scenes often do not have time to spend wasting about. The GM should consider the time the Player is spending attempting the skill checks. Also sometimes the GM may setup ambushes or other actions. The GM can set a time limit which is usually just 2 minutes. That gives the players enough time to preform the check before the next scene occurs.

==== Taking 10 and Taking 20 ====
A skill check represents an attempt to accomplish some goal, usually while under some sort of time pressure or distraction. Sometimes, though, a character can use a skill under more favorable conditions, increasing the odds of success. A character cannot take 10 or 20 if they do not have the time in game. The Player must also be aware of the time within the game. Taking 10 or 20 means actually taking 10 or 20 minutes to before the skill. They must be willing to spend that amount of time doing just that and nothing else.

;Taking 10

: When your character is not in immediate danger or distracted, you may choose to take 10. Instead of rolling 1d20 for the skill check, calculate your result as if you had rolled a 10. For many routine tasks, taking 10 makes them automatically successful. Distractions or threats (such as combat) make it impossible for a character to take 10. In most cases, taking 10 is purely a safety measure—you know (or expect) that an average roll will succeed but fear that a poor roll might fail, so you elect to settle for the average roll (a 10). Taking 10 is especially useful in situations where a particularly high roll wouldn't help.

;Taking 20

: When you have plenty of time, you are faced with no threats or distractions, and the skill being attempted carries no penalties for failure, you can take 20. In other words, if you a d20 roll enough times, eventually you will get a 20. Instead of rolling 1d20 for the skill check, just calculate your result as if you had rolled a 20.

: Taking 20 means you are trying until you get it right, and it assumes that you fail many times before succeeding. Taking 20 takes 20 times as long as making a single check would take (usually 2 minutes for a skill that takes 1 round or less to perform).

: Since taking 20 assumes that your character will fail many times before succeeding, your character would automatically incur any penalties for failure before he or she could complete the task (hence why it is generally not allowed with skills that carry such penalties). Common “take 20” skills include Disable Device (when used to open locks), Escape Artist, and Perception (when attempting to find traps).

;Ability Checks
: The normal take 10 and take 20 rules apply for ability checks.

=== Aiding Another ===
In some situations, characters can cooperate to accomplish a given task. One character is designated as the leader in the effort, while the others try to aid the character in his or her efforts. A character aids another by making a skill check (DC 10). This is an attack action, and the character can’t take 10 on this check. If the check succeeds, the character’s ally gains a Moderate +2 circumstance bonus to apply to his or her skill check to complete the task.

In many cases, a character’s help won’t be beneficial, or only a limited number of characters can help at the same time. The GM limits aid another attempts as he or she sees fit for the conditions.

=== Difficulty Class ===
Some checks are made against a Difficulty Class (DC). The DC is a number set by the GM (using the skill rules as a guideline) that a character must attain to succeed.
{| class="wikitable"
|+Table: Difficulty Class Examples:
! style="text-algin:left;"|Difficulty (DC)
! Example (Skill Used)

|-
| Very easy (0)||Notice something large in plain sight (Spot)
|-
| Easy (5)||Climb a knotted rope (Climb)
|-
| Average (10)||Hear an approaching security guard (Listen)
|-
| Tough (15)||Disarm an explosive (Demolitions)
|-
| Challenging (20)||Swim against a strong current (Swim)
|-
| Formidable (25)||Break into a secure computer system (Computer Use)
|-
| Heroic (30)||Leap across a 30-foot chasm (Jump)
|-
| Superheroic (35)||Convince the guards that even though you’re not wearing an ID badge and aren’t on their list, they should let you into the building (Bluff)
|-
| Nearly impossible (40)||Track a trained commando through the forests of Brazil on a moonless night after 12 days of rainfall (Survival)
|}

=== Opposed Checks ===
Some skill checks are opposed checks. They are made against a randomized number, usually another character’s skill check result.
For ties on opposed checks, the character with the higher key ability score wins. If those scores are the same, roll again.

{| class="wikitable"
|+Table: Example Opposed Checks::
! style="text-algin:left;"|Task
! Skill
! Opposing Skill

|-
| Sneak up on someone||Move Silently||Listen
|-
| Con someone||Bluff||Sense Motive
|-
| Hide from someone||Hide||Spot
|-
| Win a car race||Drive||Drive
|-
| Pretend to be someone else||Disguise||Spot
|-
| Steal a key chain||Sleight of Hand||Spot
|-
| Create a fake ID||Forgery||Forgery
|}

=== Favorable and Unfavorable Conditions ===
Some situations may make a skill easier or harder to use, resulting in a bonus or penalty to the skill modifier or a change to the skill check’s DC. This comes in the form of the Advantage and Disadvantage system.
The GM can alter the odds of success in four ways to take into account exceptional circumstances:
# Give the skill user a Moderate +2 circumstance bonus to represent conditions that improve performance, such as having the perfect tool for the job, getting help from another character, or working under conditions that are significantly better than normal.
# Give the skill user a Moderate –2 circumstance penalty to represent conditions that hamper performance, such as being forced to use improvised tools or possessing misleading information.
# Reduce the DC by 2 to represent circumstances that make the task easier, such as having a friendly audience when making a Perform check or searching for information on an extremely well documented topic with a Computer Use check.
# Increase the DC by 2 to represent circumstances that make the task harder, such as making a Perform check in front of a hostile audience or searching for information on a very poorly documented topic with a Computer Use check.

Conditions that affect a character’s ability to perform the skill change the character’s skill modifier. Conditions that modify how well the character must perform the skill to succeed change the DC. A bonus on a character’s skill modifier or a reduction in the DC of the check have the same result—they create a better chance for success. But they represent different circumstances, and sometimes that difference is important. Changing the Character's Ability/Skill is considered an Advantage/Disadvantage and the rules for applying these changes take effect. However adjusting DC can be done secretly at the discretion of the GM and does not have to follow the Advantage/Disadvantage rules.

=== Time and Skill Checks ===
Using a skill might take a round, several rounds, or even longer. It might take no time at all. Types of actions define how long activities take to perform within the framework of a combat round (3 seconds) and how movement is treated with respect to the activity. See the skill description for specifies on how long a skill takes to use.

In general, using a skill that requires concentration while in close combat is dangerous. Nearby opponents can make Attacks of Opportunity against a character when he or she lets his or her guard down.

=== Tools ===
Some skill applications require the use of tools. If tools are needed, the specific items required are mentioned in the skill description. If the character doesn’t have the appropriate tools, he or she can still attempt to use the skill, but the character takes a Major –4 disadvantage on his or her check.

A character may be able to put together some impromptu tools to make the check. If the GM allows it, reduce the penalty to Moderate –2 (instead of –4) for using impromptu tools. It usually takes some time (several minutes to an hour or more) to collect or create a set of impromptu tools, and it may require a skill check as well.

=== Skill Synergy ===
Sometimes, the GM may decide that having one skill provides a bonus when a character uses another skill in certain situations. The character must have at least 5 ranks in the related skill to gain this synergy bonus, and the GM must agree that the two skills can complement each other in the given situation. In such cases, the character receives a Moderate +2 synergy bonus on the skill check. Any additional bonuses must follow the Advantage/Disadvantage rules.

== Ability Checks ==
Sometimes a character tries to do something to which no specific skill applies. In these cases, the character makes an ability check: Roll 1d20 and apply the appropriate ability modifier. The GM assigns a DC, or sets up an opposed check when two characters are engaged in a contest using one ability against another. In some cases, a test of one’s ability doesn’t involve luck. When two characters arm wrestle, for example, the stronger character simply wins. In the case of identical scores, make opposed Strength checks.

Example Ability Checks:
;Strength
: Forcing open a jammed or locked door
;Dexterity
: Tying a rope
;Constitution
: Holding one’s breath
;Intelligence
: Navigating a maze
;Wisdom
: Recognize a stranger you’ve seen before
;Charisma
: Getting yourself noticed in a crowd

There is also Ability Saves which are explained in the [[Combat|Combat]] section.

== Modifier Types and Stacking ==
A modifier provides a bonus (a positive modifier) or a penalty (a negative modifier) to a die roll. Bonuses with specific descriptors, such as “equipment bonus,” generally don’t stack (combine for cumulative effect) with others of the same type. In those cases, only the best bonus of that type applies. The only specific bonuses that stack are dodge bonuses, synergy bonuses, and sometimes circumstance bonuses. Circumstance bonuses stack only if they’re provided by differing circumstances; if two circumstance bonuses caused by similar circumstances apply, they don’t stack. Specific bonuses that don’t stack include competence, cover, equipment, morale, natural armor, and size.
If the game setting includes magic or other supernatural effects, there can also be deflection, enhancement, enlargement, haste, inherent, insight, luck, profane, resistance, and sacred bonus descriptors. None of these bonuses stack.

Any bonus without a descriptor (such as simply a “+1 bonus”) stacks with other bonuses.

All penalties stack, regardless of their descriptors.

SkillsBasics

2016-01-16T00:07:20Z

173.203.4.162: /* Using Skills */

Below is the rules for the use of skills in the game. Skills can seam daunting at first. However realize that not all skills or skill rules will apply too your character. It is unlikely that you will ever use all the skills available for even a fully leveled up character. If you want to review the skills themselves a list of all skills can be found in the [[Skills|Skills]] section.

== All About Skills ==
Skills are common abilities or groups of abilities considered to be actions that the Character can before in game. All skills are associated with an ability score. A d20 is rolled to determine the output of any skill action. Players add bonuses to the d20 roll in the form of d20 + Skill Ranks + Associated Ability Modifier + Misc Mods. Ranks in a skill shows that a Character has trained to get better at that skill. For example the Skill Athletics represents a set of different actions like "Swimming", "Jumping", "Climbing" and so on. They all fall under the Ability of Strength.

Skill checks are usually against some Difficulty Class or DC. Usually this number is predetermined by the GM using rules in the [[Skills|Skills]] section. However skills sometimes may also be against other skills. Such as someones Stealth check may be used as the DC for someone's Perception check.

At each level including level one, a character gets skill points that can be spent to buy ranks in a skill. The character's [[Future_Hero_Base_Class|Base Class]] and Intelligence modifier determines the number of points per level a character gets. The minimum is 1 even if the Intelligence modifier is a negative. The Player can choose not to spend a skill point until the next level. Meaning any unspent skill points roll over to the next level. The maximum rank a skill can have is the level of the Character.

All skills have certain attributes.
# Class/Non-Class
# Natural/Unnatural
# Trained/Untrained
# Rank Dependent

The different attributes will be explained in more detail below:

=== Class Skills ===

In addition to other customizations, each class has a number of favored skills, called class skills. It is easier for your character to become more proficient in these skills, as they represent part of his professional training and constant practice. There are several advantages too class skills. First all class skills are considered to also be trained even if you do not have a rank in it. Secondly in order to add ranks to a class skill the Player only needs to spend one skill point. All non-class skills require two skill points to gain a single rank.

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Modifying Character Sheet: To record what skills are class skills on your character sheet there is a check box on the far left of the skill in question. There are actually two little check boxes. The first box to the left of the skill name is for recording if the skill has been Trained by spending a point in it. (More on Trained/Untrained in the following section). However the next box over is where you can record that the skill is indeed a class skill.
</pre>

=== Natural/Unnatural ===

Skills can either be Natural implying that the average person in the Future Path universe knows how to perform this particular action or unnatural implying that it requires training before use. For example the Skill Perception is a Natural skill. Being able to perceive the environment around yourself using some form of sense. Like smell, site, sound or others. This should come Natural to people. However there are also Unnatural skills. Such as crafting. Crafting is not something that a person is just born knowing how to do. And even if the knowledge was implanted genetically that knowledge came from somewhere first.

The difference is that Natural skills do not require that the be Trained first. (More on Training in the section below) Unnatural skills cannot be used at all unless the Character trains in that skill first. Even though Natural skills can be used without being Trained that do not get a bonus from there associated Ability Mod until they are trained.

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Character Sheet: On the Character sheet skills that are Unnatural are identified with a '*' next too there name. You can also see by looking at the Skills page.
</pre>

=== Trained/Untrained ===

Unnatural skills require training before use. Training a skill requires a single skill point. Natural skills do not require training too use but without training a Character cannot apply his/her associated ability modifier. All class skills are automatically considered trained.

<pre style="white-space: pre-wrap;
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Modifying Character Sheet: To denote that a skill is Trained there is a small check box to the left of the skill in question. To the right of the the class skill check box. You can use that check box to record that you have Trained the skill. However to show what a skill type is you do not need to edit the character sheet. Skill types are a predetermined part of the game rules. The character sheet denotes trained skills from natural skills with a '*' next to the skill name.
</pre>

=== Rank Dependent Skills ===

The third and finial type of skill is "Rank Dependent". All "Rank Dependent" skills are considered to also be Unnatural. See the above section "Natural/Unnatural" for more on that. All Rank Dependent skills means is that the best possible outcome is predetermined by the rank of the skill. This does not effect the Difficulty of the task. The target "DC" is still the same. The best way to explain is with the Language skill which is considered Rank Dependent. If you have a skill rank of 5 in "Common Human" it means that you are fluent in it. You may not completely sound native but you will likely fool most. Another player only has a skill rank of 1 in "Common Human". That Player is just learning to speak/write and understand that language. If you are simply handed a paper or holo message in Human language that happens to be garbled. You must roll a Skill check to see if you can understand the message. The DC is the same 15 for both players. Not only does the first player with a rank of 5 in that language has a better chance (because the player can add the +5 to his skill check) but his best possible outcome is that he can completely understand the message. However the best possible outcome for the player with only 1 rank is only a word here or there. The DC is the same for both. But the outcome if they succeed is different.

This means that ranks in some skills will matter more. It may become more important. A full list of skills that are Rank Dependent is below:

# [[Craft|Craft]]
# [[Perform|Perform]]
# [[Language|Language]]
# [[Tech|Tech]]

== Using Skills ==
Using a skill is as simple as rolling a d20 and adding the Skill Mod Total.

'''1d20 + Skill Modifier Total'''

(Skill Modifier = Skill Ranks + Ability Modifier + Miscellaneous Modifiers)

However there are several side notes too consider.
# Is this skill usable in combat?
# If I use this skill in combat does this provoke an Attack of Opportunity
# How long does it take to use this Skill?
# If I fail what is the consequences? Can I try again?

The above questions are all answered on a per skill biases on the [[Skills|Skills]] page. Luckily Characters at level 1 usually only have a few skills so learning how to use a the skills isn't difficult if you are a Player. However if you are the GM you should review all the skills in the [[Skills|Skills]] page before game play. You may also want to record what skills each player has.

;Skill Ranks: A character’s ranks in a skill is based on the number of skill points the character has invested in the skill. Some skills can be used even if the character has no ranks in the skill; doing this is known as making an untrained skill check. Remember that this can be only done with "natural" skills. And a character can only add ability modifiers to a skill if it is 'Trained'.

;Ability Modifier: The ability modifier used in the skill check is the modifier of the skill’s key ability (the ability associated with the skill’s use). The key ability of a skill is noted in its description. Here is also a list of skills by their ability:

:: '''Strength''':
* [[Athletics|Athletics]]
:: '''Dexterity''':
* [[Acrobatics|Acrobatics]], [[Drive|Drive]], [[Escape Artist|Escape Artist]], [[Pilot|Pilot]], [[Ride|Ride]], [[Sleight of Hand|Sleight of Hand]], [[Stealth|Stealth]]
:: '''Constitution''':
* None
:: '''Intelligence''':
* [[Computer Use|Computer Use]], [[Craft|Craft]], [[Decipher Script|Decipher Script]], [[Demolitions|Demolitions]], [[Disable Device|Disable Device]], [[Knowledge|Knowledge]], [[Study|Study]]
:: '''Wisdom''':
* [[Perception|Perception]], [[Profession|Profession]], [[Sense Motive|Sense Motive]], [[Survival|Survival]], [[Treat Injury|Treat Injury]]
; '''Charisma''':
* [[Bluff|Bluff]], [[Diplomacy|Diplomacy]], [[Disguise|Disguise]], [[Handle Animal|Handle Animal]], [[Intimidate|Intimidate]], [[Perform|Perform]]

;Miscellaneous Modifiers: Miscellaneous modifiers include bonuses provided by feats, class features and species. Miscellaneous may also include disadvantages such as the ones associated with the non-proficient use of armor, among others.

=== Skill Checks ===
When your character uses a skill, he isn't guaranteed success. In order to determine success, whenever you attempt to use a skill, you must make a skill check. Unlike with attack rolls and saving throws, a natural roll of 20 on the d20 is not an automatic success when making a skill check, and a natural roll of 1 is not an automatic failure.

Each skill rank grants a +1 bonus on checks made using that skill. When you make a skill check, you roll 1d20 and then add your ranks and the appropriate ability score modifier to the result of this check. If your ability score provides a penalty instead of a bonus it takes effect no matter if the skill is Trained or not. Skills can be further modified by a wide variety of sources, by your species, by a class ability, by equipment, by technological effects or items, and so on.

If the result of your skill check is equal to or greater than the Difficulty Class (or DC) of the task you are attempting to accomplish, you succeed. If it is less than the DC, you fail. Some tasks have varying levels of success and failure depending on how much your check is above or below the required DC. Some skill checks are opposed by the target's skill check. When making an opposed skill check, the attempt is successful if your check result exceeds the result of the target.

==== Trying Again ====
If a character fails on a skill check, he or she can sometimes try again. Check the skill description to find out if, and under what circumstances, a character can try again. Many skills, however, have natural consequences for failing that must be accounted for. Some skills can’t be tried again once a check has failed for a particular task. If the use of a skill carries no penalty for failure, a character can take 20 and assume that he or she keeps trying until he or she eventually succeeds.

A skill check usually takes 1 to 2 minutes of in game time. So why not just keep rolling till you succeed? Well firstly it does take up time. Think of the game play like a movie. There are scenes and the characters in those scenes often do not have time to spend wasting about. The GM should consider the time the Player is spending attempting the skill checks. Also sometimes the GM may setup ambushes or other actions. The GM can set a time limit which is usually just 2 minutes. That gives the players enough time to preform the check before the next scene occurs.

==== Taking 10 and Taking 20 ====
A skill check represents an attempt to accomplish some goal, usually while under some sort of time pressure or distraction. Sometimes, though, a character can use a skill under more favorable conditions, increasing the odds of success. A character cannot take 10 or 20 if they do not have the time in game. The Player must also be aware of the time within the game. Taking 10 or 20 means actually taking 10 or 20 minutes to before the skill. They must be willing to spend that amount of time doing just that and nothing else.

;Taking 10

: When your character is not in immediate danger or distracted, you may choose to take 10. Instead of rolling 1d20 for the skill check, calculate your result as if you had rolled a 10. For many routine tasks, taking 10 makes them automatically successful. Distractions or threats (such as combat) make it impossible for a character to take 10. In most cases, taking 10 is purely a safety measure—you know (or expect) that an average roll will succeed but fear that a poor roll might fail, so you elect to settle for the average roll (a 10). Taking 10 is especially useful in situations where a particularly high roll wouldn't help.

;Taking 20

: When you have plenty of time, you are faced with no threats or distractions, and the skill being attempted carries no penalties for failure, you can take 20. In other words, if you a d20 roll enough times, eventually you will get a 20. Instead of rolling 1d20 for the skill check, just calculate your result as if you had rolled a 20.

: Taking 20 means you are trying until you get it right, and it assumes that you fail many times before succeeding. Taking 20 takes 20 times as long as making a single check would take (usually 2 minutes for a skill that takes 1 round or less to perform).

: Since taking 20 assumes that your character will fail many times before succeeding, your character would automatically incur any penalties for failure before he or she could complete the task (hence why it is generally not allowed with skills that carry such penalties). Common “take 20” skills include Disable Device (when used to open locks), Escape Artist, and Perception (when attempting to find traps).

;Ability Checks
: The normal take 10 and take 20 rules apply for ability checks.

=== Aiding Another ===
In some situations, characters can cooperate to accomplish a given task. One character is designated as the leader in the effort, while the others try to aid the character in his or her efforts. A character aids another by making a skill check (DC 10). This is an attack action, and the character can’t take 10 on this check. If the check succeeds, the character’s ally gains a Moderate +2 circumstance bonus to apply to his or her skill check to complete the task.

In many cases, a character’s help won’t be beneficial, or only a limited number of characters can help at the same time. The GM limits aid another attempts as he or she sees fit for the conditions.

=== Difficulty Class ===
Some checks are made against a Difficulty Class (DC). The DC is a number set by the GM (using the skill rules as a guideline) that a character must attain to succeed.
{| class="wikitable"
|+Table: Difficulty Class Examples:
! style="text-algin:left;"|Difficulty (DC)
! Example (Skill Used)

|-
| Very easy (0)||Notice something large in plain sight (Spot)
|-
| Easy (5)||Climb a knotted rope (Climb)
|-
| Average (10)||Hear an approaching security guard (Listen)
|-
| Tough (15)||Disarm an explosive (Demolitions)
|-
| Challenging (20)||Swim against a strong current (Swim)
|-
| Formidable (25)||Break into a secure computer system (Computer Use)
|-
| Heroic (30)||Leap across a 30-foot chasm (Jump)
|-
| Superheroic (35)||Convince the guards that even though you’re not wearing an ID badge and aren’t on their list, they should let you into the building (Bluff)
|-
| Nearly impossible (40)||Track a trained commando through the forests of Brazil on a moonless night after 12 days of rainfall (Survival)
|}

=== Opposed Checks ===
Some skill checks are opposed checks. They are made against a randomized number, usually another character’s skill check result.
For ties on opposed checks, the character with the higher key ability score wins. If those scores are the same, roll again.

{| class="wikitable"
|+Table: Example Opposed Checks::
! style="text-algin:left;"|Task
! Skill
! Opposing Skill

|-
| Sneak up on someone||Move Silently||Listen
|-
| Con someone||Bluff||Sense Motive
|-
| Hide from someone||Hide||Spot
|-
| Win a car race||Drive||Drive
|-
| Pretend to be someone else||Disguise||Spot
|-
| Steal a key chain||Sleight of Hand||Spot
|-
| Create a fake ID||Forgery||Forgery
|}

=== Favorable and Unfavorable Conditions ===
Some situations may make a skill easier or harder to use, resulting in a bonus or penalty to the skill modifier or a change to the skill check’s DC. This comes in the form of the Advantage and Disadvantage system.
The GM can alter the odds of success in four ways to take into account exceptional circumstances:
# Give the skill user a Moderate +2 circumstance bonus to represent conditions that improve performance, such as having the perfect tool for the job, getting help from another character, or working under conditions that are significantly better than normal.
# Give the skill user a Moderate –2 circumstance penalty to represent conditions that hamper performance, such as being forced to use improvised tools or possessing misleading information.
# Reduce the DC by 2 to represent circumstances that make the task easier, such as having a friendly audience when making a Perform check or searching for information on an extremely well documented topic with a Computer Use check.
# Increase the DC by 2 to represent circumstances that make the task harder, such as making a Perform check in front of a hostile audience or searching for information on a very poorly documented topic with a Computer Use check.

Conditions that affect a character’s ability to perform the skill change the character’s skill modifier. Conditions that modify how well the character must perform the skill to succeed change the DC. A bonus on a character’s skill modifier or a reduction in the DC of the check have the same result—they create a better chance for success. But they represent different circumstances, and sometimes that difference is important. Changing the Character's Ability/Skill is considered an Advantage/Disadvantage and the rules for applying these changes take effect. However adjusting DC can be done secretly at the discretion of the GM and does not have to follow the Advantage/Disadvantage rules.

=== Time and Skill Checks ===
Using a skill might take a round, several rounds, or even longer. It might take no time at all. Types of actions define how long activities take to perform within the framework of a combat round (3 seconds) and how movement is treated with respect to the activity. See the skill description for specifies on how long a skill takes to use.

In general, using a skill that requires concentration while in close combat is dangerous. Nearby opponents can make Attacks of Opportunity against a character when he or she lets his or her guard down.

=== Tools ===
Some skill applications require the use of tools. If tools are needed, the specific items required are mentioned in the skill description. If the character doesn’t have the appropriate tools, he or she can still attempt to use the skill, but the character takes a Major –4 disadvantage on his or her check.

A character may be able to put together some impromptu tools to make the check. If the GM allows it, reduce the penalty to Moderate –2 (instead of –4) for using impromptu tools. It usually takes some time (several minutes to an hour or more) to collect or create a set of impromptu tools, and it may require a skill check as well.

=== Skill Synergy ===
Sometimes, the GM may decide that having one skill provides a bonus when a character uses another skill in certain situations. The character must have at least 5 ranks in the related skill to gain this synergy bonus, and the GM must agree that the two skills can complement each other in the given situation. In such cases, the character receives a Moderate +2 synergy bonus on the skill check. Any additional bonuses must follow the Advantage/Disadvantage rules.

== Ability Checks ==
Sometimes a character tries to do something to which no specific skill applies. In these cases, the character makes an ability check: Roll 1d20 and apply the appropriate ability modifier. The GM assigns a DC, or sets up an opposed check when two characters are engaged in a contest using one ability against another. In some cases, a test of one’s ability doesn’t involve luck. When two characters arm wrestle, for example, the stronger character simply wins. In the case of identical scores, make opposed Strength checks.

Example Ability Checks:
;Strength
: Forcing open a jammed or locked door
;Dexterity
: Tying a rope
;Constitution
: Holding one’s breath
;Intelligence
: Navigating a maze
;Wisdom
: Recognize a stranger you’ve seen before
;Charisma
: Getting yourself noticed in a crowd

There is also Ability Saves which are explained in the [[Combat|Combat]] section.

== Modifier Types and Stacking ==
A modifier provides a bonus (a positive modifier) or a penalty (a negative modifier) to a die roll. Bonuses with specific descriptors, such as “equipment bonus,” generally don’t stack (combine for cumulative effect) with others of the same type. In those cases, only the best bonus of that type applies. The only specific bonuses that stack are dodge bonuses, synergy bonuses, and sometimes circumstance bonuses. Circumstance bonuses stack only if they’re provided by differing circumstances; if two circumstance bonuses caused by similar circumstances apply, they don’t stack. Specific bonuses that don’t stack include competence, cover, equipment, morale, natural armor, and size.
If the game setting includes magic or other supernatural effects, there can also be deflection, enhancement, enlargement, haste, inherent, insight, luck, profane, resistance, and sacred bonus descriptors. None of these bonuses stack.

Any bonus without a descriptor (such as simply a “+1 bonus”) stacks with other bonuses.

All penalties stack, regardless of their descriptors.

SkillsBasics

2016-01-15T23:52:27Z

173.203.4.162: /* Trained/Untrained */

Below is the rules for the use of skills in the game. Skills can seam daunting at first. However realize that not all skills or skill rules will apply too your character. It is unlikely that you will ever use all the skills available for even a fully leveled up character. If you want to review the skills themselves a list of all skills can be found in the [[Skills|Skills]] section.

== All About Skills ==
Skills are common abilities or groups of abilities considered to be actions that the Character can before in game. All skills are associated with an ability score. A d20 is rolled to determine the output of any skill action. Players add bonuses to the d20 roll in the form of d20 + Skill Ranks + Associated Ability Modifier + Misc Mods. Ranks in a skill shows that a Character has trained to get better at that skill. For example the Skill Athletics represents a set of different actions like "Swimming", "Jumping", "Climbing" and so on. They all fall under the Ability of Strength.

Skill checks are usually against some Difficulty Class or DC. Usually this number is predetermined by the GM using rules in the [[Skills|Skills]] section. However skills sometimes may also be against other skills. Such as someones Stealth check may be used as the DC for someone's Perception check.

At each level including level one, a character gets skill points that can be spent to buy ranks in a skill. The character's [[Future_Hero_Base_Class|Base Class]] and Intelligence modifier determines the number of points per level a character gets. The minimum is 1 even if the Intelligence modifier is a negative. The Player can choose not to spend a skill point until the next level. Meaning any unspent skill points roll over to the next level. The maximum rank a skill can have is the level of the Character.

All skills have certain attributes.
# Class/Non-Class
# Natural/Unnatural
# Trained/Untrained
# Rank Dependent

The different attributes will be explained in more detail below:

=== Class Skills ===

In addition to other customizations, each class has a number of favored skills, called class skills. It is easier for your character to become more proficient in these skills, as they represent part of his professional training and constant practice. There are several advantages too class skills. First all class skills are considered to also be trained even if you do not have a rank in it. Secondly in order to add ranks to a class skill the Player only needs to spend one skill point. All non-class skills require two skill points to gain a single rank.

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Modifying Character Sheet: To record what skills are class skills on your character sheet there is a check box on the far left of the skill in question. There are actually two little check boxes. The first box to the left of the skill name is for recording if the skill has been Trained by spending a point in it. (More on Trained/Untrained in the following section). However the next box over is where you can record that the skill is indeed a class skill.
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=== Natural/Unnatural ===

Skills can either be Natural implying that the average person in the Future Path universe knows how to perform this particular action or unnatural implying that it requires training before use. For example the Skill Perception is a Natural skill. Being able to perceive the environment around yourself using some form of sense. Like smell, site, sound or others. This should come Natural to people. However there are also Unnatural skills. Such as crafting. Crafting is not something that a person is just born knowing how to do. And even if the knowledge was implanted genetically that knowledge came from somewhere first.

The difference is that Natural skills do not require that the be Trained first. (More on Training in the section below) Unnatural skills cannot be used at all unless the Character trains in that skill first. Even though Natural skills can be used without being Trained that do not get a bonus from there associated Ability Mod until they are trained.

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Character Sheet: On the Character sheet skills that are Unnatural are identified with a '*' next too there name. You can also see by looking at the Skills page.
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=== Trained/Untrained ===

Unnatural skills require training before use. Training a skill requires a single skill point. Natural skills do not require training too use but without training a Character cannot apply his/her associated ability modifier. All class skills are automatically considered trained.

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Modifying Character Sheet: To denote that a skill is Trained there is a small check box to the left of the skill in question. To the right of the the class skill check box. You can use that check box to record that you have Trained the skill. However to show what a skill type is you do not need to edit the character sheet. Skill types are a predetermined part of the game rules. The character sheet denotes trained skills from natural skills with a '*' next to the skill name.
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=== Rank Dependent Skills ===

The third and finial type of skill is "Rank Dependent". All "Rank Dependent" skills are considered to also be Unnatural. See the above section "Natural/Unnatural" for more on that. All Rank Dependent skills means is that the best possible outcome is predetermined by the rank of the skill. This does not effect the Difficulty of the task. The target "DC" is still the same. The best way to explain is with the Language skill which is considered Rank Dependent. If you have a skill rank of 5 in "Common Human" it means that you are fluent in it. You may not completely sound native but you will likely fool most. Another player only has a skill rank of 1 in "Common Human". That Player is just learning to speak/write and understand that language. If you are simply handed a paper or holo message in Human language that happens to be garbled. You must roll a Skill check to see if you can understand the message. The DC is the same 15 for both players. Not only does the first player with a rank of 5 in that language has a better chance (because the player can add the +5 to his skill check) but his best possible outcome is that he can completely understand the message. However the best possible outcome for the player with only 1 rank is only a word here or there. The DC is the same for both. But the outcome if they succeed is different.

This means that ranks in some skills will matter more. It may become more important. A full list of skills that are Rank Dependent is below:

# [[Craft|Craft]]
# [[Perform|Perform]]
# [[Language|Language]]
# [[Tech|Tech]]

== Using Skills ==
Using a skill is a simple as rolling a d20 and adding the Skill Mod Total.

'''1d20 + Skill Modifier Total'''

(Skill Modifier = Skill Ranks + Ability Modifier + Miscellaneous Modifiers)

However there are several side notes too consider.
# Is this skill usable in combat?
# If I use this skill in combat does this provoke an Attack of Opportunity
# How long does it take to use this Skill?
# If I fail what is the consequences? Can I try again?

The above questions are all answered on a per skill biases on the [[Skills|Skills]] page. Luckily Characters at level 1 usually only have a few skills so learning how to use a the skills isn't difficult if you are a Player. However if you are the GM you should review all the skills in the [[Skills|Skills]] page before game play. You may also want to record what skills each player has.

;Skill Ranks: A character’s ranks in a skill is based on the number of skill points the character has invested in the skill. Some skills can be used even if the character has no ranks in the skill; doing this is known as making an untrained skill check. Remember that this can be only done with "natural" skills. And a character can only add ability modifiers to a skill if it is 'Trained'.

;Ability Modifier: The ability modifier used in the skill check is the modifier of the skill’s key ability (the ability associated with the skill’s use). The key ability of a skill is noted in its description. Here is also a list of skills by their ability:

:: '''Strength''':
* [[Athletics|Athletics]]
:: '''Dexterity''':
* [[Acrobatics|Acrobatics]], [[Drive|Drive]], [[Escape Artist|Escape Artist]], [[Pilot|Pilot]], [[Ride|Ride]], [[Sleight of Hand|Sleight of Hand]], [[Stealth|Stealth]]
:: '''Constitution''':
* None
:: '''Intelligence''':
* [[Computer Use|Computer Use]], [[Craft|Craft]], [[Decipher Script|Decipher Script]], [[Demolitions|Demolitions]], [[Disable Device|Disable Device]], [[Knowledge|Knowledge]], [[Study|Study]]
:: '''Wisdom''':
* [[Perception|Perception]], [[Profession|Profession]], [[Sense Motive|Sense Motive]], [[Survival|Survival]], [[Treat Injury|Treat Injury]]
; '''Charisma''':
* [[Bluff|Bluff]], [[Diplomacy|Diplomacy]], [[Disguise|Disguise]], [[Handle Animal|Handle Animal]], [[Intimidate|Intimidate]], [[Perform|Perform]]

;Miscellaneous Modifiers: Miscellaneous modifiers include bonuses provided by feats, class features and species. Miscellaneous may also include disadvantages such as the ones associated with the non-proficient use of armor, among others.

=== Skill Checks ===
When your character uses a skill, he isn't guaranteed success. In order to determine success, whenever you attempt to use a skill, you must make a skill check. Unlike with attack rolls and saving throws, a natural roll of 20 on the d20 is not an automatic success when making a skill check, and a natural roll of 1 is not an automatic failure.

Each skill rank grants a +1 bonus on checks made using that skill. When you make a skill check, you roll 1d20 and then add your ranks and the appropriate ability score modifier to the result of this check. If your ability score provides a penalty instead of a bonus it takes effect no matter if the skill is Trained or not. Skills can be further modified by a wide variety of sources, by your species, by a class ability, by equipment, by technological effects or items, and so on.

If the result of your skill check is equal to or greater than the Difficulty Class (or DC) of the task you are attempting to accomplish, you succeed. If it is less than the DC, you fail. Some tasks have varying levels of success and failure depending on how much your check is above or below the required DC. Some skill checks are opposed by the target's skill check. When making an opposed skill check, the attempt is successful if your check result exceeds the result of the target.

==== Trying Again ====
If a character fails on a skill check, he or she can sometimes try again. Check the skill description to find out if, and under what circumstances, a character can try again. Many skills, however, have natural consequences for failing that must be accounted for. Some skills can’t be tried again once a check has failed for a particular task. If the use of a skill carries no penalty for failure, a character can take 20 and assume that he or she keeps trying until he or she eventually succeeds.

A skill check usually takes 1 to 2 minutes of in game time. So why not just keep rolling till you succeed? Well firstly it does take up time. Think of the game play like a movie. There are scenes and the characters in those scenes often do not have time to spend wasting about. The GM should consider the time the Player is spending attempting the skill checks. Also sometimes the GM may setup ambushes or other actions. The GM can set a time limit which is usually just 2 minutes. That gives the players enough time to preform the check before the next scene occurs.

==== Taking 10 and Taking 20 ====
A skill check represents an attempt to accomplish some goal, usually while under some sort of time pressure or distraction. Sometimes, though, a character can use a skill under more favorable conditions, increasing the odds of success. A character cannot take 10 or 20 if they do not have the time in game. The Player must also be aware of the time within the game. Taking 10 or 20 means actually taking 10 or 20 minutes to before the skill. They must be willing to spend that amount of time doing just that and nothing else.

;Taking 10

: When your character is not in immediate danger or distracted, you may choose to take 10. Instead of rolling 1d20 for the skill check, calculate your result as if you had rolled a 10. For many routine tasks, taking 10 makes them automatically successful. Distractions or threats (such as combat) make it impossible for a character to take 10. In most cases, taking 10 is purely a safety measure—you know (or expect) that an average roll will succeed but fear that a poor roll might fail, so you elect to settle for the average roll (a 10). Taking 10 is especially useful in situations where a particularly high roll wouldn't help.

;Taking 20

: When you have plenty of time, you are faced with no threats or distractions, and the skill being attempted carries no penalties for failure, you can take 20. In other words, if you a d20 roll enough times, eventually you will get a 20. Instead of rolling 1d20 for the skill check, just calculate your result as if you had rolled a 20.

: Taking 20 means you are trying until you get it right, and it assumes that you fail many times before succeeding. Taking 20 takes 20 times as long as making a single check would take (usually 2 minutes for a skill that takes 1 round or less to perform).

: Since taking 20 assumes that your character will fail many times before succeeding, your character would automatically incur any penalties for failure before he or she could complete the task (hence why it is generally not allowed with skills that carry such penalties). Common “take 20” skills include Disable Device (when used to open locks), Escape Artist, and Perception (when attempting to find traps).

;Ability Checks
: The normal take 10 and take 20 rules apply for ability checks.

=== Aiding Another ===
In some situations, characters can cooperate to accomplish a given task. One character is designated as the leader in the effort, while the others try to aid the character in his or her efforts. A character aids another by making a skill check (DC 10). This is an attack action, and the character can’t take 10 on this check. If the check succeeds, the character’s ally gains a Moderate +2 circumstance bonus to apply to his or her skill check to complete the task.

In many cases, a character’s help won’t be beneficial, or only a limited number of characters can help at the same time. The GM limits aid another attempts as he or she sees fit for the conditions.

=== Difficulty Class ===
Some checks are made against a Difficulty Class (DC). The DC is a number set by the GM (using the skill rules as a guideline) that a character must attain to succeed.
{| class="wikitable"
|+Table: Difficulty Class Examples:
! style="text-algin:left;"|Difficulty (DC)
! Example (Skill Used)

|-
| Very easy (0)||Notice something large in plain sight (Spot)
|-
| Easy (5)||Climb a knotted rope (Climb)
|-
| Average (10)||Hear an approaching security guard (Listen)
|-
| Tough (15)||Disarm an explosive (Demolitions)
|-
| Challenging (20)||Swim against a strong current (Swim)
|-
| Formidable (25)||Break into a secure computer system (Computer Use)
|-
| Heroic (30)||Leap across a 30-foot chasm (Jump)
|-
| Superheroic (35)||Convince the guards that even though you’re not wearing an ID badge and aren’t on their list, they should let you into the building (Bluff)
|-
| Nearly impossible (40)||Track a trained commando through the forests of Brazil on a moonless night after 12 days of rainfall (Survival)
|}

=== Opposed Checks ===
Some skill checks are opposed checks. They are made against a randomized number, usually another character’s skill check result.
For ties on opposed checks, the character with the higher key ability score wins. If those scores are the same, roll again.

{| class="wikitable"
|+Table: Example Opposed Checks::
! style="text-algin:left;"|Task
! Skill
! Opposing Skill

|-
| Sneak up on someone||Move Silently||Listen
|-
| Con someone||Bluff||Sense Motive
|-
| Hide from someone||Hide||Spot
|-
| Win a car race||Drive||Drive
|-
| Pretend to be someone else||Disguise||Spot
|-
| Steal a key chain||Sleight of Hand||Spot
|-
| Create a fake ID||Forgery||Forgery
|}

=== Favorable and Unfavorable Conditions ===
Some situations may make a skill easier or harder to use, resulting in a bonus or penalty to the skill modifier or a change to the skill check’s DC. This comes in the form of the Advantage and Disadvantage system.
The GM can alter the odds of success in four ways to take into account exceptional circumstances:
# Give the skill user a Moderate +2 circumstance bonus to represent conditions that improve performance, such as having the perfect tool for the job, getting help from another character, or working under conditions that are significantly better than normal.
# Give the skill user a Moderate –2 circumstance penalty to represent conditions that hamper performance, such as being forced to use improvised tools or possessing misleading information.
# Reduce the DC by 2 to represent circumstances that make the task easier, such as having a friendly audience when making a Perform check or searching for information on an extremely well documented topic with a Computer Use check.
# Increase the DC by 2 to represent circumstances that make the task harder, such as making a Perform check in front of a hostile audience or searching for information on a very poorly documented topic with a Computer Use check.

Conditions that affect a character’s ability to perform the skill change the character’s skill modifier. Conditions that modify how well the character must perform the skill to succeed change the DC. A bonus on a character’s skill modifier or a reduction in the DC of the check have the same result—they create a better chance for success. But they represent different circumstances, and sometimes that difference is important. Changing the Character's Ability/Skill is considered an Advantage/Disadvantage and the rules for applying these changes take effect. However adjusting DC can be done secretly at the discretion of the GM and does not have to follow the Advantage/Disadvantage rules.

=== Time and Skill Checks ===
Using a skill might take a round, several rounds, or even longer. It might take no time at all. Types of actions define how long activities take to perform within the framework of a combat round (3 seconds) and how movement is treated with respect to the activity. See the skill description for specifies on how long a skill takes to use.

In general, using a skill that requires concentration while in close combat is dangerous. Nearby opponents can make Attacks of Opportunity against a character when he or she lets his or her guard down.

=== Tools ===
Some skill applications require the use of tools. If tools are needed, the specific items required are mentioned in the skill description. If the character doesn’t have the appropriate tools, he or she can still attempt to use the skill, but the character takes a Major –4 disadvantage on his or her check.

A character may be able to put together some impromptu tools to make the check. If the GM allows it, reduce the penalty to Moderate –2 (instead of –4) for using impromptu tools. It usually takes some time (several minutes to an hour or more) to collect or create a set of impromptu tools, and it may require a skill check as well.

=== Skill Synergy ===
Sometimes, the GM may decide that having one skill provides a bonus when a character uses another skill in certain situations. The character must have at least 5 ranks in the related skill to gain this synergy bonus, and the GM must agree that the two skills can complement each other in the given situation. In such cases, the character receives a Moderate +2 synergy bonus on the skill check. Any additional bonuses must follow the Advantage/Disadvantage rules.

== Ability Checks ==
Sometimes a character tries to do something to which no specific skill applies. In these cases, the character makes an ability check: Roll 1d20 and apply the appropriate ability modifier. The GM assigns a DC, or sets up an opposed check when two characters are engaged in a contest using one ability against another. In some cases, a test of one’s ability doesn’t involve luck. When two characters arm wrestle, for example, the stronger character simply wins. In the case of identical scores, make opposed Strength checks.

Example Ability Checks:
;Strength
: Forcing open a jammed or locked door
;Dexterity
: Tying a rope
;Constitution
: Holding one’s breath
;Intelligence
: Navigating a maze
;Wisdom
: Recognize a stranger you’ve seen before
;Charisma
: Getting yourself noticed in a crowd

There is also Ability Saves which are explained in the [[Combat|Combat]] section.

== Modifier Types and Stacking ==
A modifier provides a bonus (a positive modifier) or a penalty (a negative modifier) to a die roll. Bonuses with specific descriptors, such as “equipment bonus,” generally don’t stack (combine for cumulative effect) with others of the same type. In those cases, only the best bonus of that type applies. The only specific bonuses that stack are dodge bonuses, synergy bonuses, and sometimes circumstance bonuses. Circumstance bonuses stack only if they’re provided by differing circumstances; if two circumstance bonuses caused by similar circumstances apply, they don’t stack. Specific bonuses that don’t stack include competence, cover, equipment, morale, natural armor, and size.
If the game setting includes magic or other supernatural effects, there can also be deflection, enhancement, enlargement, haste, inherent, insight, luck, profane, resistance, and sacred bonus descriptors. None of these bonuses stack.

Any bonus without a descriptor (such as simply a “+1 bonus”) stacks with other bonuses.

All penalties stack, regardless of their descriptors.

SkillsBasics

2016-01-15T23:50:55Z

173.203.4.162: /* Natural/Unnatural */

Below is the rules for the use of skills in the game. Skills can seam daunting at first. However realize that not all skills or skill rules will apply too your character. It is unlikely that you will ever use all the skills available for even a fully leveled up character. If you want to review the skills themselves a list of all skills can be found in the [[Skills|Skills]] section.

== All About Skills ==
Skills are common abilities or groups of abilities considered to be actions that the Character can before in game. All skills are associated with an ability score. A d20 is rolled to determine the output of any skill action. Players add bonuses to the d20 roll in the form of d20 + Skill Ranks + Associated Ability Modifier + Misc Mods. Ranks in a skill shows that a Character has trained to get better at that skill. For example the Skill Athletics represents a set of different actions like "Swimming", "Jumping", "Climbing" and so on. They all fall under the Ability of Strength.

Skill checks are usually against some Difficulty Class or DC. Usually this number is predetermined by the GM using rules in the [[Skills|Skills]] section. However skills sometimes may also be against other skills. Such as someones Stealth check may be used as the DC for someone's Perception check.

At each level including level one, a character gets skill points that can be spent to buy ranks in a skill. The character's [[Future_Hero_Base_Class|Base Class]] and Intelligence modifier determines the number of points per level a character gets. The minimum is 1 even if the Intelligence modifier is a negative. The Player can choose not to spend a skill point until the next level. Meaning any unspent skill points roll over to the next level. The maximum rank a skill can have is the level of the Character.

All skills have certain attributes.
# Class/Non-Class
# Natural/Unnatural
# Trained/Untrained
# Rank Dependent

The different attributes will be explained in more detail below:

=== Class Skills ===

In addition to other customizations, each class has a number of favored skills, called class skills. It is easier for your character to become more proficient in these skills, as they represent part of his professional training and constant practice. There are several advantages too class skills. First all class skills are considered to also be trained even if you do not have a rank in it. Secondly in order to add ranks to a class skill the Player only needs to spend one skill point. All non-class skills require two skill points to gain a single rank.

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Modifying Character Sheet: To record what skills are class skills on your character sheet there is a check box on the far left of the skill in question. There are actually two little check boxes. The first box to the left of the skill name is for recording if the skill has been Trained by spending a point in it. (More on Trained/Untrained in the following section). However the next box over is where you can record that the skill is indeed a class skill.
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=== Natural/Unnatural ===

Skills can either be Natural implying that the average person in the Future Path universe knows how to perform this particular action or unnatural implying that it requires training before use. For example the Skill Perception is a Natural skill. Being able to perceive the environment around yourself using some form of sense. Like smell, site, sound or others. This should come Natural to people. However there are also Unnatural skills. Such as crafting. Crafting is not something that a person is just born knowing how to do. And even if the knowledge was implanted genetically that knowledge came from somewhere first.

The difference is that Natural skills do not require that the be Trained first. (More on Training in the section below) Unnatural skills cannot be used at all unless the Character trains in that skill first. Even though Natural skills can be used without being Trained that do not get a bonus from there associated Ability Mod until they are trained.

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Character Sheet: On the Character sheet skills that are Unnatural are identified with a '*' next too there name. You can also see by looking at the Skills page.
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=== Trained/Untrained ===

Unnatural skills require training before use. Training a skill requires a single skill point. Natural skills do not require training too use but without training a Character cannot apply his/her associated ability modifier. All class skills are automatically considered trained.

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'''Modifying Character Sheet''': To denote that a skill is Trained there is a small check box to the left of the skill in question. To the right of the the class skill check box. You can use that check box to record that you have Trained the skill. However to show what a skill type is you do not need to edit the character sheet. Skill types are a predetermined part of the game rules. The character sheet denotes trained skills from natural skills with a '*' next to the skill name.
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=== Rank Dependent Skills ===

The third and finial type of skill is "Rank Dependent". All "Rank Dependent" skills are considered to also be Unnatural. See the above section "Natural/Unnatural" for more on that. All Rank Dependent skills means is that the best possible outcome is predetermined by the rank of the skill. This does not effect the Difficulty of the task. The target "DC" is still the same. The best way to explain is with the Language skill which is considered Rank Dependent. If you have a skill rank of 5 in "Common Human" it means that you are fluent in it. You may not completely sound native but you will likely fool most. Another player only has a skill rank of 1 in "Common Human". That Player is just learning to speak/write and understand that language. If you are simply handed a paper or holo message in Human language that happens to be garbled. You must roll a Skill check to see if you can understand the message. The DC is the same 15 for both players. Not only does the first player with a rank of 5 in that language has a better chance (because the player can add the +5 to his skill check) but his best possible outcome is that he can completely understand the message. However the best possible outcome for the player with only 1 rank is only a word here or there. The DC is the same for both. But the outcome if they succeed is different.

This means that ranks in some skills will matter more. It may become more important. A full list of skills that are Rank Dependent is below:

# [[Craft|Craft]]
# [[Perform|Perform]]
# [[Language|Language]]
# [[Tech|Tech]]

== Using Skills ==
Using a skill is a simple as rolling a d20 and adding the Skill Mod Total.

'''1d20 + Skill Modifier Total'''

(Skill Modifier = Skill Ranks + Ability Modifier + Miscellaneous Modifiers)

However there are several side notes too consider.
# Is this skill usable in combat?
# If I use this skill in combat does this provoke an Attack of Opportunity
# How long does it take to use this Skill?
# If I fail what is the consequences? Can I try again?

The above questions are all answered on a per skill biases on the [[Skills|Skills]] page. Luckily Characters at level 1 usually only have a few skills so learning how to use a the skills isn't difficult if you are a Player. However if you are the GM you should review all the skills in the [[Skills|Skills]] page before game play. You may also want to record what skills each player has.

;Skill Ranks: A character’s ranks in a skill is based on the number of skill points the character has invested in the skill. Some skills can be used even if the character has no ranks in the skill; doing this is known as making an untrained skill check. Remember that this can be only done with "natural" skills. And a character can only add ability modifiers to a skill if it is 'Trained'.

;Ability Modifier: The ability modifier used in the skill check is the modifier of the skill’s key ability (the ability associated with the skill’s use). The key ability of a skill is noted in its description. Here is also a list of skills by their ability:

:: '''Strength''':
* [[Athletics|Athletics]]
:: '''Dexterity''':
* [[Acrobatics|Acrobatics]], [[Drive|Drive]], [[Escape Artist|Escape Artist]], [[Pilot|Pilot]], [[Ride|Ride]], [[Sleight of Hand|Sleight of Hand]], [[Stealth|Stealth]]
:: '''Constitution''':
* None
:: '''Intelligence''':
* [[Computer Use|Computer Use]], [[Craft|Craft]], [[Decipher Script|Decipher Script]], [[Demolitions|Demolitions]], [[Disable Device|Disable Device]], [[Knowledge|Knowledge]], [[Study|Study]]
:: '''Wisdom''':
* [[Perception|Perception]], [[Profession|Profession]], [[Sense Motive|Sense Motive]], [[Survival|Survival]], [[Treat Injury|Treat Injury]]
; '''Charisma''':
* [[Bluff|Bluff]], [[Diplomacy|Diplomacy]], [[Disguise|Disguise]], [[Handle Animal|Handle Animal]], [[Intimidate|Intimidate]], [[Perform|Perform]]

;Miscellaneous Modifiers: Miscellaneous modifiers include bonuses provided by feats, class features and species. Miscellaneous may also include disadvantages such as the ones associated with the non-proficient use of armor, among others.

=== Skill Checks ===
When your character uses a skill, he isn't guaranteed success. In order to determine success, whenever you attempt to use a skill, you must make a skill check. Unlike with attack rolls and saving throws, a natural roll of 20 on the d20 is not an automatic success when making a skill check, and a natural roll of 1 is not an automatic failure.

Each skill rank grants a +1 bonus on checks made using that skill. When you make a skill check, you roll 1d20 and then add your ranks and the appropriate ability score modifier to the result of this check. If your ability score provides a penalty instead of a bonus it takes effect no matter if the skill is Trained or not. Skills can be further modified by a wide variety of sources, by your species, by a class ability, by equipment, by technological effects or items, and so on.

If the result of your skill check is equal to or greater than the Difficulty Class (or DC) of the task you are attempting to accomplish, you succeed. If it is less than the DC, you fail. Some tasks have varying levels of success and failure depending on how much your check is above or below the required DC. Some skill checks are opposed by the target's skill check. When making an opposed skill check, the attempt is successful if your check result exceeds the result of the target.

==== Trying Again ====
If a character fails on a skill check, he or she can sometimes try again. Check the skill description to find out if, and under what circumstances, a character can try again. Many skills, however, have natural consequences for failing that must be accounted for. Some skills can’t be tried again once a check has failed for a particular task. If the use of a skill carries no penalty for failure, a character can take 20 and assume that he or she keeps trying until he or she eventually succeeds.

A skill check usually takes 1 to 2 minutes of in game time. So why not just keep rolling till you succeed? Well firstly it does take up time. Think of the game play like a movie. There are scenes and the characters in those scenes often do not have time to spend wasting about. The GM should consider the time the Player is spending attempting the skill checks. Also sometimes the GM may setup ambushes or other actions. The GM can set a time limit which is usually just 2 minutes. That gives the players enough time to preform the check before the next scene occurs.

==== Taking 10 and Taking 20 ====
A skill check represents an attempt to accomplish some goal, usually while under some sort of time pressure or distraction. Sometimes, though, a character can use a skill under more favorable conditions, increasing the odds of success. A character cannot take 10 or 20 if they do not have the time in game. The Player must also be aware of the time within the game. Taking 10 or 20 means actually taking 10 or 20 minutes to before the skill. They must be willing to spend that amount of time doing just that and nothing else.

;Taking 10

: When your character is not in immediate danger or distracted, you may choose to take 10. Instead of rolling 1d20 for the skill check, calculate your result as if you had rolled a 10. For many routine tasks, taking 10 makes them automatically successful. Distractions or threats (such as combat) make it impossible for a character to take 10. In most cases, taking 10 is purely a safety measure—you know (or expect) that an average roll will succeed but fear that a poor roll might fail, so you elect to settle for the average roll (a 10). Taking 10 is especially useful in situations where a particularly high roll wouldn't help.

;Taking 20

: When you have plenty of time, you are faced with no threats or distractions, and the skill being attempted carries no penalties for failure, you can take 20. In other words, if you a d20 roll enough times, eventually you will get a 20. Instead of rolling 1d20 for the skill check, just calculate your result as if you had rolled a 20.

: Taking 20 means you are trying until you get it right, and it assumes that you fail many times before succeeding. Taking 20 takes 20 times as long as making a single check would take (usually 2 minutes for a skill that takes 1 round or less to perform).

: Since taking 20 assumes that your character will fail many times before succeeding, your character would automatically incur any penalties for failure before he or she could complete the task (hence why it is generally not allowed with skills that carry such penalties). Common “take 20” skills include Disable Device (when used to open locks), Escape Artist, and Perception (when attempting to find traps).

;Ability Checks
: The normal take 10 and take 20 rules apply for ability checks.

=== Aiding Another ===
In some situations, characters can cooperate to accomplish a given task. One character is designated as the leader in the effort, while the others try to aid the character in his or her efforts. A character aids another by making a skill check (DC 10). This is an attack action, and the character can’t take 10 on this check. If the check succeeds, the character’s ally gains a Moderate +2 circumstance bonus to apply to his or her skill check to complete the task.

In many cases, a character’s help won’t be beneficial, or only a limited number of characters can help at the same time. The GM limits aid another attempts as he or she sees fit for the conditions.

=== Difficulty Class ===
Some checks are made against a Difficulty Class (DC). The DC is a number set by the GM (using the skill rules as a guideline) that a character must attain to succeed.
{| class="wikitable"
|+Table: Difficulty Class Examples:
! style="text-algin:left;"|Difficulty (DC)
! Example (Skill Used)

|-
| Very easy (0)||Notice something large in plain sight (Spot)
|-
| Easy (5)||Climb a knotted rope (Climb)
|-
| Average (10)||Hear an approaching security guard (Listen)
|-
| Tough (15)||Disarm an explosive (Demolitions)
|-
| Challenging (20)||Swim against a strong current (Swim)
|-
| Formidable (25)||Break into a secure computer system (Computer Use)
|-
| Heroic (30)||Leap across a 30-foot chasm (Jump)
|-
| Superheroic (35)||Convince the guards that even though you’re not wearing an ID badge and aren’t on their list, they should let you into the building (Bluff)
|-
| Nearly impossible (40)||Track a trained commando through the forests of Brazil on a moonless night after 12 days of rainfall (Survival)
|}

=== Opposed Checks ===
Some skill checks are opposed checks. They are made against a randomized number, usually another character’s skill check result.
For ties on opposed checks, the character with the higher key ability score wins. If those scores are the same, roll again.

{| class="wikitable"
|+Table: Example Opposed Checks::
! style="text-algin:left;"|Task
! Skill
! Opposing Skill

|-
| Sneak up on someone||Move Silently||Listen
|-
| Con someone||Bluff||Sense Motive
|-
| Hide from someone||Hide||Spot
|-
| Win a car race||Drive||Drive
|-
| Pretend to be someone else||Disguise||Spot
|-
| Steal a key chain||Sleight of Hand||Spot
|-
| Create a fake ID||Forgery||Forgery
|}

=== Favorable and Unfavorable Conditions ===
Some situations may make a skill easier or harder to use, resulting in a bonus or penalty to the skill modifier or a change to the skill check’s DC. This comes in the form of the Advantage and Disadvantage system.
The GM can alter the odds of success in four ways to take into account exceptional circumstances:
# Give the skill user a Moderate +2 circumstance bonus to represent conditions that improve performance, such as having the perfect tool for the job, getting help from another character, or working under conditions that are significantly better than normal.
# Give the skill user a Moderate –2 circumstance penalty to represent conditions that hamper performance, such as being forced to use improvised tools or possessing misleading information.
# Reduce the DC by 2 to represent circumstances that make the task easier, such as having a friendly audience when making a Perform check or searching for information on an extremely well documented topic with a Computer Use check.
# Increase the DC by 2 to represent circumstances that make the task harder, such as making a Perform check in front of a hostile audience or searching for information on a very poorly documented topic with a Computer Use check.

Conditions that affect a character’s ability to perform the skill change the character’s skill modifier. Conditions that modify how well the character must perform the skill to succeed change the DC. A bonus on a character’s skill modifier or a reduction in the DC of the check have the same result—they create a better chance for success. But they represent different circumstances, and sometimes that difference is important. Changing the Character's Ability/Skill is considered an Advantage/Disadvantage and the rules for applying these changes take effect. However adjusting DC can be done secretly at the discretion of the GM and does not have to follow the Advantage/Disadvantage rules.

=== Time and Skill Checks ===
Using a skill might take a round, several rounds, or even longer. It might take no time at all. Types of actions define how long activities take to perform within the framework of a combat round (3 seconds) and how movement is treated with respect to the activity. See the skill description for specifies on how long a skill takes to use.

In general, using a skill that requires concentration while in close combat is dangerous. Nearby opponents can make Attacks of Opportunity against a character when he or she lets his or her guard down.

=== Tools ===
Some skill applications require the use of tools. If tools are needed, the specific items required are mentioned in the skill description. If the character doesn’t have the appropriate tools, he or she can still attempt to use the skill, but the character takes a Major –4 disadvantage on his or her check.

A character may be able to put together some impromptu tools to make the check. If the GM allows it, reduce the penalty to Moderate –2 (instead of –4) for using impromptu tools. It usually takes some time (several minutes to an hour or more) to collect or create a set of impromptu tools, and it may require a skill check as well.

=== Skill Synergy ===
Sometimes, the GM may decide that having one skill provides a bonus when a character uses another skill in certain situations. The character must have at least 5 ranks in the related skill to gain this synergy bonus, and the GM must agree that the two skills can complement each other in the given situation. In such cases, the character receives a Moderate +2 synergy bonus on the skill check. Any additional bonuses must follow the Advantage/Disadvantage rules.

== Ability Checks ==
Sometimes a character tries to do something to which no specific skill applies. In these cases, the character makes an ability check: Roll 1d20 and apply the appropriate ability modifier. The GM assigns a DC, or sets up an opposed check when two characters are engaged in a contest using one ability against another. In some cases, a test of one’s ability doesn’t involve luck. When two characters arm wrestle, for example, the stronger character simply wins. In the case of identical scores, make opposed Strength checks.

Example Ability Checks:
;Strength
: Forcing open a jammed or locked door
;Dexterity
: Tying a rope
;Constitution
: Holding one’s breath
;Intelligence
: Navigating a maze
;Wisdom
: Recognize a stranger you’ve seen before
;Charisma
: Getting yourself noticed in a crowd

There is also Ability Saves which are explained in the [[Combat|Combat]] section.

== Modifier Types and Stacking ==
A modifier provides a bonus (a positive modifier) or a penalty (a negative modifier) to a die roll. Bonuses with specific descriptors, such as “equipment bonus,” generally don’t stack (combine for cumulative effect) with others of the same type. In those cases, only the best bonus of that type applies. The only specific bonuses that stack are dodge bonuses, synergy bonuses, and sometimes circumstance bonuses. Circumstance bonuses stack only if they’re provided by differing circumstances; if two circumstance bonuses caused by similar circumstances apply, they don’t stack. Specific bonuses that don’t stack include competence, cover, equipment, morale, natural armor, and size.
If the game setting includes magic or other supernatural effects, there can also be deflection, enhancement, enlargement, haste, inherent, insight, luck, profane, resistance, and sacred bonus descriptors. None of these bonuses stack.

Any bonus without a descriptor (such as simply a “+1 bonus”) stacks with other bonuses.

All penalties stack, regardless of their descriptors.

SkillsBasics

2016-01-15T23:48:08Z

173.203.4.162: /* All About Skills */

Below is the rules for the use of skills in the game. Skills can seam daunting at first. However realize that not all skills or skill rules will apply too your character. It is unlikely that you will ever use all the skills available for even a fully leveled up character. If you want to review the skills themselves a list of all skills can be found in the [[Skills|Skills]] section.

== All About Skills ==
Skills are common abilities or groups of abilities considered to be actions that the Character can before in game. All skills are associated with an ability score. A d20 is rolled to determine the output of any skill action. Players add bonuses to the d20 roll in the form of d20 + Skill Ranks + Associated Ability Modifier + Misc Mods. Ranks in a skill shows that a Character has trained to get better at that skill. For example the Skill Athletics represents a set of different actions like "Swimming", "Jumping", "Climbing" and so on. They all fall under the Ability of Strength.

Skill checks are usually against some Difficulty Class or DC. Usually this number is predetermined by the GM using rules in the [[Skills|Skills]] section. However skills sometimes may also be against other skills. Such as someones Stealth check may be used as the DC for someone's Perception check.

At each level including level one, a character gets skill points that can be spent to buy ranks in a skill. The character's [[Future_Hero_Base_Class|Base Class]] and Intelligence modifier determines the number of points per level a character gets. The minimum is 1 even if the Intelligence modifier is a negative. The Player can choose not to spend a skill point until the next level. Meaning any unspent skill points roll over to the next level. The maximum rank a skill can have is the level of the Character.

All skills have certain attributes.
# Class/Non-Class
# Natural/Unnatural
# Trained/Untrained
# Rank Dependent

The different attributes will be explained in more detail below:

=== Class Skills ===

In addition to other customizations, each class has a number of favored skills, called class skills. It is easier for your character to become more proficient in these skills, as they represent part of his professional training and constant practice. There are several advantages too class skills. First all class skills are considered to also be trained even if you do not have a rank in it. Secondly in order to add ranks to a class skill the Player only needs to spend one skill point. All non-class skills require two skill points to gain a single rank.

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Modifying Character Sheet: To record what skills are class skills on your character sheet there is a check box on the far left of the skill in question. There are actually two little check boxes. The first box to the left of the skill name is for recording if the skill has been Trained by spending a point in it. (More on Trained/Untrained in the following section). However the next box over is where you can record that the skill is indeed a class skill.
</pre>

=== Natural/Unnatural ===

Skills can either be Natural implying that the average person in the Future Path universe knows how to perform this particular action. For example the Skill Perception is a Natural skill. Being able to perceive the environment around yourself using some form of sense. Like smell, site, sound or others. This should come Natural to people. However there are also Unnatural skills. Such as crafting. Crafting is not something that a person is just born knowing how to do. And even if the knowledge was implanted genetically that knowledge came from somewhere first.

The difference is that Natural skills do not require that the be Trained first. (More on Training in the section below) Unnatural skills cannot be used at all unless the Character trains in that skill first. Even though Natural skills can be used without being Trained that do not get a bonus from there associated Ability Mod until they are trained.

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Character Sheet: On the Character sheet skills that are Unnatural are identified with a '*' next too there name. You can also see by looking at the Skills page.
</pre>

=== Trained/Untrained ===

Unnatural skills require training before use. Training a skill requires a single skill point. Natural skills do not require training too use but without training a Character cannot apply his/her associated ability modifier. All class skills are automatically considered trained.

<pre style="white-space: pre-wrap;
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'''Modifying Character Sheet''': To denote that a skill is Trained there is a small check box to the left of the skill in question. To the right of the the class skill check box. You can use that check box to record that you have Trained the skill. However to show what a skill type is you do not need to edit the character sheet. Skill types are a predetermined part of the game rules. The character sheet denotes trained skills from natural skills with a '*' next to the skill name.
</pre>

=== Rank Dependent Skills ===

The third and finial type of skill is "Rank Dependent". All "Rank Dependent" skills are considered to also be Unnatural. See the above section "Natural/Unnatural" for more on that. All Rank Dependent skills means is that the best possible outcome is predetermined by the rank of the skill. This does not effect the Difficulty of the task. The target "DC" is still the same. The best way to explain is with the Language skill which is considered Rank Dependent. If you have a skill rank of 5 in "Common Human" it means that you are fluent in it. You may not completely sound native but you will likely fool most. Another player only has a skill rank of 1 in "Common Human". That Player is just learning to speak/write and understand that language. If you are simply handed a paper or holo message in Human language that happens to be garbled. You must roll a Skill check to see if you can understand the message. The DC is the same 15 for both players. Not only does the first player with a rank of 5 in that language has a better chance (because the player can add the +5 to his skill check) but his best possible outcome is that he can completely understand the message. However the best possible outcome for the player with only 1 rank is only a word here or there. The DC is the same for both. But the outcome if they succeed is different.

This means that ranks in some skills will matter more. It may become more important. A full list of skills that are Rank Dependent is below:

# [[Craft|Craft]]
# [[Perform|Perform]]
# [[Language|Language]]
# [[Tech|Tech]]

== Using Skills ==
Using a skill is a simple as rolling a d20 and adding the Skill Mod Total.

'''1d20 + Skill Modifier Total'''

(Skill Modifier = Skill Ranks + Ability Modifier + Miscellaneous Modifiers)

However there are several side notes too consider.
# Is this skill usable in combat?
# If I use this skill in combat does this provoke an Attack of Opportunity
# How long does it take to use this Skill?
# If I fail what is the consequences? Can I try again?

The above questions are all answered on a per skill biases on the [[Skills|Skills]] page. Luckily Characters at level 1 usually only have a few skills so learning how to use a the skills isn't difficult if you are a Player. However if you are the GM you should review all the skills in the [[Skills|Skills]] page before game play. You may also want to record what skills each player has.

;Skill Ranks: A character’s ranks in a skill is based on the number of skill points the character has invested in the skill. Some skills can be used even if the character has no ranks in the skill; doing this is known as making an untrained skill check. Remember that this can be only done with "natural" skills. And a character can only add ability modifiers to a skill if it is 'Trained'.

;Ability Modifier: The ability modifier used in the skill check is the modifier of the skill’s key ability (the ability associated with the skill’s use). The key ability of a skill is noted in its description. Here is also a list of skills by their ability:

:: '''Strength''':
* [[Athletics|Athletics]]
:: '''Dexterity''':
* [[Acrobatics|Acrobatics]], [[Drive|Drive]], [[Escape Artist|Escape Artist]], [[Pilot|Pilot]], [[Ride|Ride]], [[Sleight of Hand|Sleight of Hand]], [[Stealth|Stealth]]
:: '''Constitution''':
* None
:: '''Intelligence''':
* [[Computer Use|Computer Use]], [[Craft|Craft]], [[Decipher Script|Decipher Script]], [[Demolitions|Demolitions]], [[Disable Device|Disable Device]], [[Knowledge|Knowledge]], [[Study|Study]]
:: '''Wisdom''':
* [[Perception|Perception]], [[Profession|Profession]], [[Sense Motive|Sense Motive]], [[Survival|Survival]], [[Treat Injury|Treat Injury]]
; '''Charisma''':
* [[Bluff|Bluff]], [[Diplomacy|Diplomacy]], [[Disguise|Disguise]], [[Handle Animal|Handle Animal]], [[Intimidate|Intimidate]], [[Perform|Perform]]

;Miscellaneous Modifiers: Miscellaneous modifiers include bonuses provided by feats, class features and species. Miscellaneous may also include disadvantages such as the ones associated with the non-proficient use of armor, among others.

=== Skill Checks ===
When your character uses a skill, he isn't guaranteed success. In order to determine success, whenever you attempt to use a skill, you must make a skill check. Unlike with attack rolls and saving throws, a natural roll of 20 on the d20 is not an automatic success when making a skill check, and a natural roll of 1 is not an automatic failure.

Each skill rank grants a +1 bonus on checks made using that skill. When you make a skill check, you roll 1d20 and then add your ranks and the appropriate ability score modifier to the result of this check. If your ability score provides a penalty instead of a bonus it takes effect no matter if the skill is Trained or not. Skills can be further modified by a wide variety of sources, by your species, by a class ability, by equipment, by technological effects or items, and so on.

If the result of your skill check is equal to or greater than the Difficulty Class (or DC) of the task you are attempting to accomplish, you succeed. If it is less than the DC, you fail. Some tasks have varying levels of success and failure depending on how much your check is above or below the required DC. Some skill checks are opposed by the target's skill check. When making an opposed skill check, the attempt is successful if your check result exceeds the result of the target.

==== Trying Again ====
If a character fails on a skill check, he or she can sometimes try again. Check the skill description to find out if, and under what circumstances, a character can try again. Many skills, however, have natural consequences for failing that must be accounted for. Some skills can’t be tried again once a check has failed for a particular task. If the use of a skill carries no penalty for failure, a character can take 20 and assume that he or she keeps trying until he or she eventually succeeds.

A skill check usually takes 1 to 2 minutes of in game time. So why not just keep rolling till you succeed? Well firstly it does take up time. Think of the game play like a movie. There are scenes and the characters in those scenes often do not have time to spend wasting about. The GM should consider the time the Player is spending attempting the skill checks. Also sometimes the GM may setup ambushes or other actions. The GM can set a time limit which is usually just 2 minutes. That gives the players enough time to preform the check before the next scene occurs.

==== Taking 10 and Taking 20 ====
A skill check represents an attempt to accomplish some goal, usually while under some sort of time pressure or distraction. Sometimes, though, a character can use a skill under more favorable conditions, increasing the odds of success. A character cannot take 10 or 20 if they do not have the time in game. The Player must also be aware of the time within the game. Taking 10 or 20 means actually taking 10 or 20 minutes to before the skill. They must be willing to spend that amount of time doing just that and nothing else.

;Taking 10

: When your character is not in immediate danger or distracted, you may choose to take 10. Instead of rolling 1d20 for the skill check, calculate your result as if you had rolled a 10. For many routine tasks, taking 10 makes them automatically successful. Distractions or threats (such as combat) make it impossible for a character to take 10. In most cases, taking 10 is purely a safety measure—you know (or expect) that an average roll will succeed but fear that a poor roll might fail, so you elect to settle for the average roll (a 10). Taking 10 is especially useful in situations where a particularly high roll wouldn't help.

;Taking 20

: When you have plenty of time, you are faced with no threats or distractions, and the skill being attempted carries no penalties for failure, you can take 20. In other words, if you a d20 roll enough times, eventually you will get a 20. Instead of rolling 1d20 for the skill check, just calculate your result as if you had rolled a 20.

: Taking 20 means you are trying until you get it right, and it assumes that you fail many times before succeeding. Taking 20 takes 20 times as long as making a single check would take (usually 2 minutes for a skill that takes 1 round or less to perform).

: Since taking 20 assumes that your character will fail many times before succeeding, your character would automatically incur any penalties for failure before he or she could complete the task (hence why it is generally not allowed with skills that carry such penalties). Common “take 20” skills include Disable Device (when used to open locks), Escape Artist, and Perception (when attempting to find traps).

;Ability Checks
: The normal take 10 and take 20 rules apply for ability checks.

=== Aiding Another ===
In some situations, characters can cooperate to accomplish a given task. One character is designated as the leader in the effort, while the others try to aid the character in his or her efforts. A character aids another by making a skill check (DC 10). This is an attack action, and the character can’t take 10 on this check. If the check succeeds, the character’s ally gains a Moderate +2 circumstance bonus to apply to his or her skill check to complete the task.

In many cases, a character’s help won’t be beneficial, or only a limited number of characters can help at the same time. The GM limits aid another attempts as he or she sees fit for the conditions.

=== Difficulty Class ===
Some checks are made against a Difficulty Class (DC). The DC is a number set by the GM (using the skill rules as a guideline) that a character must attain to succeed.
{| class="wikitable"
|+Table: Difficulty Class Examples:
! style="text-algin:left;"|Difficulty (DC)
! Example (Skill Used)

|-
| Very easy (0)||Notice something large in plain sight (Spot)
|-
| Easy (5)||Climb a knotted rope (Climb)
|-
| Average (10)||Hear an approaching security guard (Listen)
|-
| Tough (15)||Disarm an explosive (Demolitions)
|-
| Challenging (20)||Swim against a strong current (Swim)
|-
| Formidable (25)||Break into a secure computer system (Computer Use)
|-
| Heroic (30)||Leap across a 30-foot chasm (Jump)
|-
| Superheroic (35)||Convince the guards that even though you’re not wearing an ID badge and aren’t on their list, they should let you into the building (Bluff)
|-
| Nearly impossible (40)||Track a trained commando through the forests of Brazil on a moonless night after 12 days of rainfall (Survival)
|}

=== Opposed Checks ===
Some skill checks are opposed checks. They are made against a randomized number, usually another character’s skill check result.
For ties on opposed checks, the character with the higher key ability score wins. If those scores are the same, roll again.

{| class="wikitable"
|+Table: Example Opposed Checks::
! style="text-algin:left;"|Task
! Skill
! Opposing Skill

|-
| Sneak up on someone||Move Silently||Listen
|-
| Con someone||Bluff||Sense Motive
|-
| Hide from someone||Hide||Spot
|-
| Win a car race||Drive||Drive
|-
| Pretend to be someone else||Disguise||Spot
|-
| Steal a key chain||Sleight of Hand||Spot
|-
| Create a fake ID||Forgery||Forgery
|}

=== Favorable and Unfavorable Conditions ===
Some situations may make a skill easier or harder to use, resulting in a bonus or penalty to the skill modifier or a change to the skill check’s DC. This comes in the form of the Advantage and Disadvantage system.
The GM can alter the odds of success in four ways to take into account exceptional circumstances:
# Give the skill user a Moderate +2 circumstance bonus to represent conditions that improve performance, such as having the perfect tool for the job, getting help from another character, or working under conditions that are significantly better than normal.
# Give the skill user a Moderate –2 circumstance penalty to represent conditions that hamper performance, such as being forced to use improvised tools or possessing misleading information.
# Reduce the DC by 2 to represent circumstances that make the task easier, such as having a friendly audience when making a Perform check or searching for information on an extremely well documented topic with a Computer Use check.
# Increase the DC by 2 to represent circumstances that make the task harder, such as making a Perform check in front of a hostile audience or searching for information on a very poorly documented topic with a Computer Use check.

Conditions that affect a character’s ability to perform the skill change the character’s skill modifier. Conditions that modify how well the character must perform the skill to succeed change the DC. A bonus on a character’s skill modifier or a reduction in the DC of the check have the same result—they create a better chance for success. But they represent different circumstances, and sometimes that difference is important. Changing the Character's Ability/Skill is considered an Advantage/Disadvantage and the rules for applying these changes take effect. However adjusting DC can be done secretly at the discretion of the GM and does not have to follow the Advantage/Disadvantage rules.

=== Time and Skill Checks ===
Using a skill might take a round, several rounds, or even longer. It might take no time at all. Types of actions define how long activities take to perform within the framework of a combat round (3 seconds) and how movement is treated with respect to the activity. See the skill description for specifies on how long a skill takes to use.

In general, using a skill that requires concentration while in close combat is dangerous. Nearby opponents can make Attacks of Opportunity against a character when he or she lets his or her guard down.

=== Tools ===
Some skill applications require the use of tools. If tools are needed, the specific items required are mentioned in the skill description. If the character doesn’t have the appropriate tools, he or she can still attempt to use the skill, but the character takes a Major –4 disadvantage on his or her check.

A character may be able to put together some impromptu tools to make the check. If the GM allows it, reduce the penalty to Moderate –2 (instead of –4) for using impromptu tools. It usually takes some time (several minutes to an hour or more) to collect or create a set of impromptu tools, and it may require a skill check as well.

=== Skill Synergy ===
Sometimes, the GM may decide that having one skill provides a bonus when a character uses another skill in certain situations. The character must have at least 5 ranks in the related skill to gain this synergy bonus, and the GM must agree that the two skills can complement each other in the given situation. In such cases, the character receives a Moderate +2 synergy bonus on the skill check. Any additional bonuses must follow the Advantage/Disadvantage rules.

== Ability Checks ==
Sometimes a character tries to do something to which no specific skill applies. In these cases, the character makes an ability check: Roll 1d20 and apply the appropriate ability modifier. The GM assigns a DC, or sets up an opposed check when two characters are engaged in a contest using one ability against another. In some cases, a test of one’s ability doesn’t involve luck. When two characters arm wrestle, for example, the stronger character simply wins. In the case of identical scores, make opposed Strength checks.

Example Ability Checks:
;Strength
: Forcing open a jammed or locked door
;Dexterity
: Tying a rope
;Constitution
: Holding one’s breath
;Intelligence
: Navigating a maze
;Wisdom
: Recognize a stranger you’ve seen before
;Charisma
: Getting yourself noticed in a crowd

There is also Ability Saves which are explained in the [[Combat|Combat]] section.

== Modifier Types and Stacking ==
A modifier provides a bonus (a positive modifier) or a penalty (a negative modifier) to a die roll. Bonuses with specific descriptors, such as “equipment bonus,” generally don’t stack (combine for cumulative effect) with others of the same type. In those cases, only the best bonus of that type applies. The only specific bonuses that stack are dodge bonuses, synergy bonuses, and sometimes circumstance bonuses. Circumstance bonuses stack only if they’re provided by differing circumstances; if two circumstance bonuses caused by similar circumstances apply, they don’t stack. Specific bonuses that don’t stack include competence, cover, equipment, morale, natural armor, and size.
If the game setting includes magic or other supernatural effects, there can also be deflection, enhancement, enlargement, haste, inherent, insight, luck, profane, resistance, and sacred bonus descriptors. None of these bonuses stack.

Any bonus without a descriptor (such as simply a “+1 bonus”) stacks with other bonuses.

All penalties stack, regardless of their descriptors.

Whats Different

2016-01-13T18:35:35Z

173.203.4.162:

'''THIS NEEDS UPDATING!'''

What whats different about Future Path? What sets it about from Future d20 or for that matter any other Pen and Paper game? Well glad you asked! The biggest goal is to create a game system where Characters will have more well defined strengths and weaknesses. Balanced is achieved by groups/teams of characters. Another major goal is to help speed up combat to make it feel more action packed and involved. Here is a list of things different from Future d20 and what we strive to make uniq about our game system.

'''1. Wealth System''':
:: A lot of P&P (Pen and Paper) game systems use a simplified way of handling wealth. The goal is to stream line game play and make it more about the story then about epic shopping. However this forces the GM and the Player to roll play in a certain way. What if you want to play out attempting to pay for the illegal substance or for your new Star Ship. Buying a ship can be a major commitment and achievement for a Player. So why not have Players manage there money? Well... its difficult when you get into modern finance. Things are more complicated. There needs to be a middle ground. We believe that our [[Wealth_and_Money|Wealth System]] is a good middle ground that helps to express a Players Wealth in a way that represents modern money without bogging down game play.

'''2. CTO/CTD ''':
:: CTO stands for Combat Technique Offence and CTD stands for Combat Technique Defence. This is inspired by rules from [http://www.d20pfsrd.com/gamemastering/combat#TOC-Combat-Maneuvers d20pfsrd.com]. Except we change it up a little. Our take on it is simple. In Future settings its more about epic laser battles and space ships. Not swords or melee combat. This isn't to say there isn't melee. But you don't bring a knife to a gun fight. So we take all melee style fighting and got it into Combat Melee System. That includes the classical maneuvers like trip and grapple. But also means punching or pistol whipping. Our goal here is to make melee combat smooth and quick. You roll the same d20 dice and you already know your modifiers because they are on your Character sheet. Combat should be able to transition quickly into melee and back into use of a ranged weapon. This also includes Advanced Combat Techniques. These are Techniques that require a feat or special class ability to preform. An example is the Combo Melee Attack.

'''3. Campaign Setting''':
:: What originally inspired this was the serious lack of a Campaign Setting to explore for d20 Future/Modern. There was no Forgotten Realms or Golarion to explore. Although not completely a bad thing it kept the d20 Modern/Future game from feeling whole. Although it did make some sense. d20 Future is simply an expansion/module for d20 Modern. And Modern didn't really need a full Campaign Setting. It could be easily based in real world today. Maybe with just a few twists in it. d20 Future never had the attention it needed. It was too tied to its base on which it was founded on. The first thing that inspired this whole project was simply to give d20 Future a galaxy to run around in. Still largely unknown with possible mysteries or dangers at every star system but at the same time a home to go back to. Large amounts of explored space with civilizations all striving to prove themselves.

'''4. Tech Level''':
:: The Progress levels explained in d20 Future seamed over simplified yet also possibly over complicated. On one end there was not a lot of restrictions laid out on characters Progress Level. There civilizations progress level doesn't effect a Players Knowledge/Crafting and general experience with items of different levels. On the other end there was a lot of different levels. 9 to be exact. When Playing a d20 Future game rarely did we bring in Progress Levels with any relevance. But technology is so cool! Sci-Fi is surrounded by neat tech that unlocks wondrous impossibles and brings them into the palm of a Characters hand. They can bring power and awe. People of lower understanding may simply view someone with advance Technology as a god. Or at least someone of great power that should be feared. Technology is the fuel source of Sci-Fi story plot and can be used to empower GMs and Players alike. In Future Path Player Characters inherit the Tech Level of the civilization they grow up in. The Tech Level effects what level of items a player can repair/modify/craft. And penalties are given for the use of items with Tech Levels to high for a character to understand. More on Tech Level [[Tech_Level_and_Civ_Progress|here]]

'''5. Attack Bonus''':
:: Taking a page from D&D Next while also attempting to better balance Classes and levels we have separated the amount of attacks per turn a Class gets from its Attack Bonus. Now extra attacks are special abilities awarded at certain levels. Also the term "Base Attack Bonus" has been replaced with "Affinity Bonus". Although similar to D&D Next its not quite the same. Your Affinity Bonus goes towards your Melee and Ranged attacks with weapons you are trained to use. It also is a modifier for saving throws with Attributes you have an affinity with. D&D Next doesn't stop there and applies the bonus to other things. Also how you determine Attributes you have an affinity with differ slightly. And even more different is you can have different "Efficiency Bonus" for each class. So you have a Base Class Affinity and your Advance Class also has an Affinity Bonus.

'''6. Skills''':
:: Our approach to handling Skills may seem at first glance to be the same old same old. However there are several major differences. There are 3 types of skills. Natural, Trained, and Rank Dependent. The "Rank Dependent" is a new addition to our rule set. The idea is that the rank of the skill determines the best possible outcome. Instead of it just helping to beat a DC by adding a modifier to your d20 roll it also predetermines how good your success is if you do indeed successful. The best example is with Language. Now Language is handled by having a skill rank for each Language you know. If you have a rank of just 1 in say "Common Human" then your best possible outcome is just being able to tell that what you are reading/listening too is indeed Human speech and maybe a few words here and there. Even if you succeed with a natural 20. Your Character is just learning the language. Higher the rank the better the best possible outcome will be.

:: We also add more rules on how to add more ranks to Natural skills. All skills wither they be trained or natural are 'locked'. Class skills are automatically unlocked at level 1. However in order to apply the Character's ability modifier to an untrained non-class skill it must first be unlocked. This doesn't mean the player cannot attempt a roll they simply do not add any bonuses too it. In order to apply any ability modifier or even to simply use a trained skill you must first unlock AND add a rank too the skill. Unlocking costs 2 skill points.

:: To Learn more please visit the [[SkillsBasics|Skills Basics]] page.

'''7. Language''':
:: As noted above in the Skill's section we treat language differently. You simply do not add a language once you level up and instantly are fluent in it. There is a Language skill. This skill determines the amount of languages a character can have. It also is added to any check that evolves comprehending a foreign language. Each language you use has its own skill and skill rank. The rank of that skill predetermines the best possible outcome. Your roll is simply to see if you succeed or fail to achieve that outcome. At rank 1 of a specific language skill a player is just learning that language. The rank is 1 through 6. 6 being that they are fluent in the language so much so they the appear to speak and write it as if it was there first language and they are able to manipulate accents. Each language skill is considered a "Trained" skill and to move up a rank in it costs 2 skill points instead of just one. That also goes for the primary Language skill itself.

:: For the Campaign Setting another twist is added. A lot of different pen and paper games have different philosophies on how to handle language. We want to make a system that can be flexible for both major scenarios. One is that there is a common language and all Players speak it and most NPCs and other characters in the story does as well. Language barriers are rarely brought up. The other side of the fence is a more gritty/realistic approach and has language barriers be a common problem and even used as a plot device. Our approach will be to introduce a common language but have it up to the GM and Players on just how "common" it is in the universe. The the official Campaign setting there will be two common languages. Low Common and High Common. Low being a very simple and easy to learn language thats only confusing part is its many different ways of expressing meaning in order to facilitate species biological differences. Its simple in that it is used to convey only the most basic ideas. High Common is far more complicated with far more exceptions however with complexity you also gain the ability to express much more. Of course there will be other languages but these two are the best way to communicate to the average alien. Will you use this setup? Its honestly up too the GM. But more rules on language skill can be find in the [[Skills|Skills]] section and more about Low/High common can be found in the Campaign Section.

Techniques

2016-01-12T01:00:45Z

173.203.4.162: /* Helix Warrior Techniques */

''' THIS PAGE IS STILL UNDER CONSTRUCTION! '''

Techniques are special combat moves that a Character can preform. They can cause damage like a normal attack but often are used to give an enemy a condition or effect them in some other way besides damage. For example they can immobilize an enemy or cause them to be distracted for a time. Techniques can also be used to assist ally characters by providing buffs to their stats.

The techniques below are separated out by each Advance Class they are associated with. First however is the 'Combat Techniques' these are generic techniques that any character can preform at level 0 and beyond.

Combat Techniques rules are explained in the Combat Techniques section. These rules are special to Combat and Advanced Combat Techniques and use a Characters CTO and CTD. This is because all Characters are able to preform these types of Techniques. However other techniques that are largely Class based have a separate set of rules. These are explained below.

Each Technique is associated with one of the Character's 6 main Abilities. Techniques for a specific class are always tide a single main Ability. This ability provides the modifier for that technique. Whenever using that technique and it states to use the modifier it is referring to the ability modifier.

A Technique may require an opposing check. Meaning that the target may have a chance to avoid the technique or at the very least have it effect them less. Usually this means half damage or no damage. An opposing check is preformed by the victim of the technique and is usually an Ability Check. The DC of that check is determined by the user of the technique. It is 10 + Technique Level + Modifier + Misc Mods.

A technique usually takes a standard action unless specified otherwise.

Preforming a technique in melee range of an enemy provokes an Attack of Opportunity.

A Character can only preform a Class specific technique (that means any techniques other then Combat/Advanced Combat Techniques) so many times. To determine the number of times in between full rest that a Character can preform a technique you will need to review the [[Advance_Classes|Advance Class]] page. The class determines how many unique techniques can be learned as well as how many can be used per day. There may be a time when a Character can learn more unique techniques then there are available. That just means that the Character can use that many. A Character cannot learn a technique outside of the Combat techniques without a class or feat specifying that they can.

== Combat Techniques ==

All combat techniques are considered Level 0 techniques. And each Character has access to all of them. To roll for a Combat Technique a Character uses a D20 and adds there Combat Technique Offense score or CTO for short. The DC is the targets Combat Technique Defense or CTD. If the target doesn't have a CTD then the roll is simply to check if its a 1 which would imply instant failure. However most things that do not have a CTD are not considered a valid target for a Combat Technique.

To read more about Combat and actions that can be done in Combat please go [[Combat#The_Combat_Phase_.28Step_4.29|here]].

'''Bull Rush''':
: You can make a bull rush as a standard action or as part of a charge, in place of the melee attack. You can only bull rush an opponent who is no more than one size category larger than you. A bull rush attempts to push an opponent straight back without doing any harm. If you do not have the Improved Bull Rush feat, or a similar ability, initiating a bull rush provokes an attack of opportunity from the target of your maneuver.

: If your attack is successful, your target is pushed back 5 feet. For every 5 by which your attack exceeds your opponent's CTD you can push the target back an additional 5 feet. You can move with the target if you wish but you must have the available movement to do so. If your attack fails, your movement ends in front of the target.

: An enemy being moved by a bull rush does not provoke an attack of opportunity because of the movement unless you possess the Greater Bull Rush feat. You cannot bull rush a creature into a square that is occupied by a solid object or obstacle. If there is another creature in the way of your bull rush, you must immediately make a Combat Technique check to bull rush that creature. You take a –4 penalty on this check for each creature being pushed beyond the first. If you are successful, you can continue to push the creatures a distance equal to the lesser result. For example, if a fighter bull rushes a goblin for a total of 15 feet, but there is another goblin 5 feet behind the first, he must make another Combat Technique check against the second goblin after having pushed the first 5 feet. If his check reveals that he can push the second goblin a total of 20 feet, he can continue to push both goblins another 10 feet (since the first goblin will have moved a total of 15 feet).

'''Disarm''':
: You can attempt to disarm your opponent in place of a melee attack. If you do not have the Improved Disarm feat, or a similar ability, attempting to disarm a foe provokes an attack of opportunity from the target of your maneuver. Attempting to disarm a foe while unarmed imposes a –4 penalty on the attack.

: If your attack is successful, your target drops one item it is carrying of your choice (even if the item is wielded with two hands). If your attack exceeds the CTD of the target by 10 or more, the target drops the items it is carrying in both hands (maximum two items if the target has more than two hands). If your attack fails by 10 or more, you drop the weapon that you were using to attempt the disarm.

'''Grapple''':
: As a standard action, you can attempt to grapple a foe, hindering his combat options. If you do not have Improved Grapple, grab, or a similar ability, attempting to grapple a foe provokes an attack of opportunity from the target of your maneuver. Humanoid creatures without two free hands attempting to grapple a foe take a –4 penalty on the Combat Technique roll. If successful, both you and the target gain the grappled condition. If you successfully grapple a creature that is not adjacent to you, move that creature to an adjacent open space (if no space is available, your grapple fails). Although both creatures have the grappled condition, you can, as the creature that initiated the grapple, release the grapple as a free action, removing the condition from both you and the target. If you do not release the grapple, you must continue to make a check each round, as a standard action, to maintain the hold. If your target does not break the grapple, you get a +5 circumstance bonus on grapple checks made against the same target in subsequent rounds. Once you are grappling an opponent, a successful check allows you to continue grappling the foe, and also allows you to perform one of the following actions (as part of the standard action spent to maintain the grapple).

* Move

:You can move both yourself and your target up to half your speed. At the end of your movement, you can place your target in any square adjacent to you. If you attempt to place your foe in a hazardous location, such as in a wall of fire or over a pit, the target receives a free attempt to break your grapple with a +4 bonus.

* Damage

:You can inflict damage to your target equal to your unarmed strike, a natural attack, or an attack made with armor spikes or a light or one-handed weapon. This damage can be either lethal or nonlethal.

* Pin

:You can give your opponent the pinned condition (see Conditions). Despite pinning your opponent, you still only have the grappled condition, but you lose your Dexterity bonus to AC.

* Tie Up

:If you have your target pinned, otherwise restrained, or unconscious, you can use rope to tie him up. This works like a pin effect, but the DC to escape the bonds is equal to 20 + your Combat Technique Bonus (instead of your CTD). The ropes do not need to make a check every round to maintain the pin. If you are grappling the target, you can attempt to tie him up in ropes, but doing so requires a Combat Technique check at a –10 penalty. If the DC to escape from these bindings is higher than 20 + the target's CTO, the target cannot escape from the bonds, even with a natural 20 on the check.

* If You Are Grappled

:If you are grappled, you can attempt to break the grapple as a standard action by making a Combat Technique check (DC equal to your opponent's CTD; this does not provoke an attack of opportunity) or Escape Artist check (with a DC equal to your opponent's CTD). If you succeed, you break the grapple and can act normally. Alternatively, if you succeed, you can become the grappler, grappling the other creature (meaning that the other creature cannot freely release the grapple without making a Combat Technique check, while you can). Instead of attempting to break or reverse the grapple, you can take any action that doesn’t require two hands to perform, such as cast a spell or make an attack or full attack with a light or one-handed weapon against any creature within your reach, including the creature that is grappling you. See the grappled condition for additional details. If you are pinned, your actions are very limited. See the pinned condition in Conditions for additional details.

* Multiple Creatures

: Multiple creatures can attempt to grapple one target. The creature that first initiates the grapple is the only one that makes a check, with a +2 bonus for each creature that assists in the grapple (using the Aid Another action). Multiple creatures can also assist another creature in breaking free from a grapple, with each creature that assists (using the Aid Another action) granting a +2 bonus on the grappled creature's Combat Technique check.

'''Overrun''':
: As a standard action, or as part of a charge, you can attempt to overrun your target, moving through its square. You can only overrun an opponent who is no more than one size category larger than you. If you do not have the Improved Overrun feat, or a similar ability, initiating an overrun provokes an attack of opportunity from the target of your technique. If your overrun attempt fails, you stop in the space directly in front of the opponent, or the nearest open space in front of the creature if there are other creatures occupying that space.

: When you attempt to overrun a target, it can choose to avoid you, allowing you to pass through its square without requiring an attack. If your target does not avoid you, make a Combat Technique check as normal. If your maneuver is successful, you move through the target's space. If your attack exceeds your opponent's CTD by 5 or more, you move through the target's space and the target is knocked prone. If the target has more than two legs, add +2 to the DC of the Combat Technique attack roll for each additional leg it has.

'''Sunder''':
: You can attempt to sunder an item held or worn by your opponent as part of the standard action. If you do not have the Improved Sunder feat, or a similar ability, attempting to sunder an item provokes an attack of opportunity from the target of your maneuver.

: If your attack is successful, you deal damage to the item normally. Damage that exceeds the object's Hardness is subtracted from its hit points. If an object has equal to or less than half its total hit points remaining, it gains the broken condition. If the damage you deal would reduce the object to less than 0 hit points, you can choose to destroy it. If you do not choose to destroy it, the object is left with only 1 hit point and the broken condition.

'''Trip''':
: You can attempt to trip your opponent in place of a melee attack. You can only trip an opponent who is no more than one size category larger than you. If you do not have the Improved Trip feat, or a similar ability, initiating a trip provokes an attack of opportunity from the target of your maneuver.

: If your attack exceeds the target's CTD, the target is knocked prone. If your attack fails by 10 or more, you are knocked prone instead. If the target has more than two legs, add +2 to the DC of the Combat Technique attack roll for each additional leg it has. Some creatures—such as oozes, creatures without legs, and flying creatures—cannot be tripped.

'''Feint''':
: '''NOTE''': Feint doesn't use a Character's CTO/CTD. And thus it may seam to not be a technique. However this is the most logical location for it and besides the not using the CTO/CTA for rolls all other rules associated with Combat Techniques apply.
: Feinting is a standard action. To feint, make a Bluff skill check. The DC of this check is equal to 10 + your opponent's affinity bonus + your opponent's Wisdom modifier. If your opponent is trained in Sense Motive, the DC is instead equal to 10 + your opponent's Sense Motive bonus, if higher. If successful, the next melee attack you make against the target does not allow him to use his Dexterity bonus to AC (if any). This attack must be made on or before your next turn.

: When feinting against a creature of animal Intelligence (1 or 2), you take a –8 penalty. Against a creature lacking an Intelligence score, it's impossible. Feinting in combat does not provoke attacks of opportunity.

'''Charge''':
: Charging is a special full-round action that allows you to move up to twice your speed and attack during the action. Charging, however, carries tight restrictions on how you can move.

* Movement During a Charge

: You must move before your attack, not after. You must move at least 10 feet (2 squares) and may move up to double your speed directly toward the designated opponent. If you move a distance equal to your speed or less, you can also draw a weapon during a charge attack if your affinity bonus is at least +1.

: You must have a clear path toward the opponent, and nothing can hinder your movement (such as difficult terrain or obstacles). You must move to the closest space from which you can attack the opponent. If this space is occupied or otherwise blocked, you can't charge. If any line from your starting space to the ending space passes through a square that blocks movement, slows movement, or contains a creature (even an ally), you can't charge. Helpless creatures don't stop a charge.

: If you don't have line of sight to the opponent at the start of your turn, you can't charge that opponent.

: You can't take a 5-foot step in the same round as a charge or any other free action except for Speak.

: If you are able to take only a standard action on your turn, you can still charge, but you are only allowed to move up to your speed (instead of up to double your speed) and you cannot draw a weapon unless you possess the Quick Draw feat. You can't use this option unless you are restricted to taking only a standard action on your turn.

* Attacking on a Charge

: After moving, you may make a single melee attack. You get a +2 bonus on the accuracy roll and take a –2 penalty to your AC until the start of your next turn.

: A charging character gets a +2 bonus on CTO rolls made to bull rush an opponent.

: Even if you have extra attacks, from 'Extra Attack' special or multiple weapons, you only get to make one attack during a charge.

: Lances and Charge Attacks: A lance deals double damage if employed by a mounted character in a charge.

: Weapons Readied against a Charge: Spears, tridents, and other weapons with the brace feature deal double damage when readied (set) and used against a charging character.

* Swinging Charge from Ropes or Vines

: As a full-round action, you can swing using a rope, vine, or similar aid within reach toward an opponent and make a single melee attack. You must move at least 20 feet (4 squares) and you must start on elevation that is equal or higher than that of your opponent. Your movement provokes attacks of opportunity as normal.

: This action is otherwise treated as a charge attack.

== Advanced Combat Techniques ==

These are combat techniques that any player can learn using the Advanced Combat Technique Feat. These feats are also available for the [[Advance_Classes#Helix_Warrior|Helix Warrior]].

'''Throw''':
: You can attempt to throw a foe as a standard action. You can only throw an opponent that is no larger than you (size category wise). A throw technique attempts to grab and toss another character to a new location without doing any harm. If you do not have the Improved Advanced Combat Techniques feat or a similar ability, attempting to throw a foe provokes an attack of opportunity from the target of your maneuver. If your attack is successful, you may move your target 5 feet to a new location. For every 5 by which your attack exceeds your opponent’s CTD, you can move the target an additional 5 feet.

: An enemy being throw does not provoke an attack of opportunity because of the movement. You cannot move a creature into a square that is occupied by a solid object or obstacle.

'''Pin''':
: You can attempt to directly Pin a foe as a full around action. You can only directly Pin an opponent that is no larger then one size category. This technique is similar to grapple except it goes directly into a pin state giving the opponent the Pinned condition immediately. This move provokes an attack of opportunity unless the attacker has Improved Advanced Combat Techniques feat or similar ability.

'''Combination Melee Attack''':
: You can attempt a weapon free melee attack as a full round action. This technique allows the player to roll twice for an accuracy check for a Melee Attack using only physical combat and then take the highest roll. If a hit is confirmed the damage dice follows the same rules as a single melee punch noted in [[Weapons#Melee.2FMartial_Arts_Combat|Melee & Martial Arts Combat]] except it is 1 damage dice higher.

'''Melee Kick''':
: You can attempt a kicking attack move as a full round action. The same rules noted in the [[Weapons#Melee.2FMartial_Arts_Combat|Melee & Martial Arts Combat]] apply except that if the CTO role is 5 or higher then the opponent CTD the attack also auto trips the enemy.

: Note that the enemy may have a bonus again trip moves. This bonus is added on top of the +5 and the roll must beat the CTD + 5 + extra trip bonus.

== Electro-Mancer Techniques ==

These Techniques are primary used by the [[Advance_Classes#Electro-Mancer|Electro-Mancer]] Advanced Class. These Techniques are associated with a Character's Intelligence ability.

'''Level 0''':
* Magnetic Left
:: Allows a Electro-Mancer the ability to lift light weight objects (5bls + 5bls odd level of Electro-Mancer) up to 10ft in front of them.
* Sense Electronics
:: When used this ability allows the Electro-Mancer heightened senses of the electromagnetic field. Anything the produces an electromagnetic field can be more easily sensed and located. The range is roughly 30ft and the Character gets a +10 to perception for 20 minutes.
:: GM Note: Almost all things produce at least some electromagnetic disturbance. The only things immune to the perception bonus would be specially shielded equipment. Most technology and biology will still be sensed by a Electro-Mancers temporarily heightened senses.
* Electric Drain
:: An Electro-Mancer can drain the power of an electronic device. If the device is battery powered it will not work again until charged. If the device has an active power source then the device will function normally once the Electro-Mancer stops. The Electro-Mancer has to be able to touch the device's internal components in order to preform this action.
* Power Surge
:: The opposite of a Electric Drain the Electro-Mancer can induce higher then recommended amounts of voltage into an electronic device. The damage is considered extremely minor but enough to stop the device from working until repaired. The Electro-Mancer has to be able to touch the device's internal components. The system must also not have any type of backups. Most robots and cybernetic implants, and ship equipment have redundant systems to protect against surges.

'''Level 1''':
* Shocking Grasp
:: A touch attack. The Electro-Mancer reaches out with sparks flying from there hand. This causes a shock in the target that deals 1d6 + Intelligence Mode. Ever 4 character levels this adds another 1d6.
* Static Shock
:: A touch attack. The Electro-Mancer attacks the target with a shock that attempts to paralyze the opponent. The opponent rolls a Constitution Check against the technique. If the check fails the opponent is Entangled for 1d4 turns.
* Static Armor
:: A full round action. The Electro-Mancer can imbue himself or an ally with a field of electricity that helps shield from damage by using electromagnetic forces to repel attacks. At level 1 this provides a +2 to AC for up to 1 hour. At level 7 this provides +4 to AC for up to 4 hours.
* Grounded Body
:: A full round action. The Electro-Mancer can ground himself. This provides 10 + Int Mod of DR against Electric based attacks.
* Imbue Weapon
:: The Electro-Mancer can imbue any weapon with electricity. For 1d4 + Int Mod of rounds the weapon has an added 1d6 Electric Based damage added to its damage dice. At level 5 this goes up to 2d6 and at level 10 it goes up to 3d6.

'''Level 2''':
* Electro Shield
:: The Electro-Mancer can produce a 5ft by 5ft wall where damage is partially absorbed when going through it in one direction. The wall has a DR of 0 + Electro-Mancer lvl + Int Mod and can last for 1d4 turns.
* Improved Power Surge
:: This is now considered a ranged touch attack. It has a range of 10ft. It now can also do damage. 2d8 + Int Mod. At level 6 2d8, lvl 9 3d8. This only works on electronics such as robots or biology that has Cybernetic implants.
* Thunder Wave
:: This allows an Electro-Mancer the ability to project a sudden concentration of magnetic force toward an enemy or group of enemies. The magnetic field shoots out in every direction acting similar to a grenade. The effect is a similar to a Bull Rush Combat Technique on all who are caught in its wave. A Successful Dexterity Check again the technique can allow the target too ignore its effects but still takes damage. The damage is 2d8 + Int Mod. The effect is that the target is pushed back 5ft and is considered prone. The Area Type is Circle and the Range Increment is (2)10ft. The Range Increment goes up by 1 at level 6 and again at level 9.
* Electric Burst
:: The Electro-Mancer concentrates on the target and suddenly they are hit by a massive burst of electricity. The opponent can roll a Constitution check for half damage. The damage is 1d10 and at level 6 2d10 and at level 9 3d10.

'''Level 3''':
* Thunder Ball
:: This is a full round action. The Electro-Mancer concentrates a large ball of electric energy in his hands and then lunches it at an opponent. The Electro-Mancer does not need to target the opponent right away. Instead instead taking only a Standard Action the Electro-Mancer can hold the ball in a free hand. At 7th level the Electro-Mancer can take another turn to produce a second ball of electricity in another free hand. The Electro-Mancer can hurl a Thunder Ball the way a Character would toss a grenade. If the Electro-Mancer has an 'Extra-Attack' special then he can throw both balls in a single turn. The damage is 3d6 + Int Mod. Anything adjacent to the target (friend or foe) will take 1/2 damage. At 10th level this damage goes up to 5d6 + Int Mod.
* Speed Of Light
:: The Electro-Mancer can infuse his muscles or any other Electro-Mancer's muscles with extra power. For 1d6 + Int Mod turns the target has triple speed and a +2 moderate bonus to Dexterity.
* Thunder Strike
:: The Electro-Mancer jesters at the target and a thunder bolt shots out an hits the target. The opponent can take a Dexterity check to attempt to avoid the direction of the jester to completely avoid damage. The damage is 2d8 + Int Mod. An extra 1d8 for every other level after 5th level.

'''Level 4''':
* Energize Body
:: The Electro-Mancer can target himself or any other ally and simply needs to touch the person. The target gets +2 moderate bonus to all accuracy, ability, and skill checks. This also makes the target temporarily immune to the follow conditions. Dazed, Exhausted, Fatigued, Nauseated, Shaken. This effect latest for 1d4 + Int Mod turns.
* Lightening Blade
:: The Electro-Mancer summons electricity to a free hand and shapes it into a blade. This blade can do 1d8 + Int Mod damage and negates DR. This also latest for 1d6 + Int Mod turns. At 10th level the Electro-Mancer can consume the blade for a free lower level technique if the blade hasn't be used for more turns then the Characters Ind Mod.

'''Level 5''':
* Improved Electro Shield
:: This is a different version of the Electro Shield. The shield is now larger and can change shape. The shield has a DR of 7 + Int mod and is 5ft + 5ft for ever 2 levels of Electro-Mancer. The wall also can do damage to any Character walking through it in the wrong direction. The damage can be halved with a successful Constitution check. The damage is 1d8.
* Lightening Bolt
:: The Electro-Mancer merrily points at a target and a bolt of lightening springs from his hand. This lighten can bounce of the target and onto any adjacent enemy targets within 5ft. (This means that there can be a 5ft empty square in between them. Simply a 5ft reach) The lightening can hit up to an additional 3 enemy targets. Each time doing 1/2 the damage as the previous target. The initial damage is 4d10 + Int Mod. Each victim of the Lightening bolt can attempt a Dexterity check to jump out of range. If target is successful the lightening bolt may still attempt to hit another target that is within 5ft reach. If there are no other targets then this stops.

== Field Officer Techniques ==

'''Level 0''':
* Leadership
* Display Courage
* Stead Fast

'''Level 1''':
* Commanding Presence
* Direct Allies
* Invoke Enemy

'''Level 2''':
* Weaken Resolve
* Imbue Strength

'''Level 3''':
* Action Trust
* Deadly Gaze

;Leadership
:By providing supervision and guidance, a Field Officer can improve an ally’s chances of succeeding at a skill check. Instead of making a skill check to aid another, the Field Officer makes a Diplomacy check (DC 10). He cannot take 10 or take 20 on the check. Success grants a competence bonus on the ally’s skill check equal to the Field Officer’s Charisma bonus or Reputation bonus, :whichever is greater. The ally must be within sight and hearing distance of the Field Officer and must be able to understand him.

:A Field Officer cannot use this ability on himself.

;Commanding Presence
:At 8th level and beyond, a Field Officer can use an attack action and his commanding presence to enable an ally or weaken a single foe’s resolve.
Enabling an ally requires an attack action and a successful Diplomacy check (DC 20). If the check succeeds, the Field Officer can negate any one of the following harmful conditions affecting a single ally: cowering, dazed, fatigued, nauseated, panicked, shaken, or stunned. The ally to be affected must be within sight and hearing distance of the Field Officer and must be able to understand him.

:The Field Officer cannot use this ability on himself.

:Weakening a foe’s resolve requires an attack action and a successful Intimidate check (DC = target’s level check) . If the check succeeds, the target is shaken for a number of rounds equal to 1d6 + one-half the Field Officer’s class level + the Field Officer’s Charisma modifier. The target must be within sight and hearing distance of the Field Officer and must be able to understand him. A target that resists the Field Officer’s attempt to weaken its resolve is immune to the Field Officer’s use of this ability for 24 hours.

;Action Trust
:At 10th level, the Field Officer’s mere presence inspires, safeguards, and motivates his allies.

:As a free action, a Field Officer may spend one of his action points to modify an ally’s attack roll, skill check, ability check, level check, or saving throw result by +2d6 (applying a bonus of +2 to +12).

:The ally to be affected must be within sight and hearing distance of the Field Officer to gain the benefits of the Field Officer’s spent action point. A Field Officer may use this ability once per round, and not on himself (he gains the normal benefits for spending an action point on himself).

:Any character may transfer some or all of her action points to the Field Officer as a free action. The Field Officer must consent to the transfer, and these action points become the Field Officer’s to spend as he sees fit.

== Helix Warrior Techniques ==

'''Level 0''':
* Detect Danger:
:: If declared for the next 16 hours the Helix Warrior has an extra +2 to Perception when confronted with a Perception check against a hidden enemy for the purposes and determining the surprise round of combat. However this takes 20 minutes of meditation and the Character must not be Fatigued or Exhausted.
* Endure Pain:
:: If declared a Helix Warrior can temporarily (20 minutes) negate a negative condition that she has because of pain.
* Endure Hunger:
:: If declared a Helix Warrior can temporarily (4 hours) negate a negative condition that she has because of hunger.
* Internal Fire:
:: The Helix Warrior can travel greater distances on foot over the stretch of a day. If given time to mediate for 20 minutes before going on the journey and if the Character is not Fatigued or Exhausted the Helix Warrior can travel twice the distance on foot then normal.

'''Level 1''':
* Combo Punch
:: Similar to the Combination Melee Attack Advance Combat Technique except this provides a bonus to accuracy and damage using the Characters Wisdom and this does not take a full round action. The Character can roll an additional time and roll an additional damage die for every Extra Attack special the Helix Warrior has. (This includes Extra Attacks provided by other classes).
* Staff Stance
:: Usable only if the Character is using a staff like melee weapon. This grants the Character a moderate +2 circumstance bonus to AC against melee attacks as well as a moderate +2 to accuracy checks while using the staff. This also gives a -2 to AC against ranged attacks. This lasts until the end of combat or the character is grapples, knocked prone, or is given any negative conditions. The Helix Warrior can only been in one stance at a time and can leave a stance as a free action.
* Double Hand Stance
:: Usable only if the Character is using two melee weapons at once. This grants the Character a moderate +2 circumstance bonus to AC against melee attacks as well as a moderate +2 to accuracy checks while using the two weapons at once. This also gives a -2 to AC against ranged attacks. This lasts until the end of combat or the character is grappled, knocked prone, or is given any negative conditions. The Helix Warrior can only been in one stance at a time and can leave a stance as a free action.
* Running Kick
:: This is similar in nature too a Charge. But allows the Helix Warrior the ability to do damage equivalent too a weapon-less melee attack for that Character except one damage die level higher. If successful the target is knocked prone. This uses the rules for Charge but the CTO gets a miscellaneous bonus of the Helix Warrior's Wisdom Mod.
* The Correct Mind:
:: This requires a full round action and can provoke and an attack of opportunity. The Helix Warrior meditates for a turn on the situation. Seeing all the subtleties of the enemy and the surroundings to find an edge. The Helix Warrior gets a moderate +2 circumstance bonus to accuracy checks for 1d4 + Wisdom Mod rounds.

'''Level 2''':
* Combo Kick
:: This is similar to the Combo Punch. Except it now has the opportunity to trip the target if the roll beats the target CTD by more then 5.
* Blinding Strike
:: This is a precise streak designed not to do damage but to cause the target to become [[Conditions#Blinded|Blinded]] for 1d4 + Str Mod rounds. The target can roll an oppose check where the DC is 10 + 2 (Technique level) + Helix Warrior's Dexterity Mod.
* Scorpion Style
:: The Helix warrior uses nothing but her fists and kicks with this style. Here you have to watch out for the leg which can appear to come out of no where and hit for extra damage. While in this stance the Helix Warrior has unlimited Attacks of Opportunity and if an opponent attempts a Combat Technique regardless of feats or special's the Helix Warrior gets and Attack Of Opportunity. This stance can only work if the Helix Warrior is not using a weapon.

'''Level 3''':
* Empty Fist
* Deadly Strike

== Shield Splicer Techniques ==

This is the list of Techniques for the [[Advance_Classes#Shield_Splicer|Shield Splicer]]. The shield splicer can also learn [[Techniques#Advanced_Combat_Techniques|Advanced Combat Techniques]] as Level 0 techniques.

'''Level 0''':
* Sixth Sense
:: For 20 minutes the shield splicer gains a +2 Moderate Bonus to perception checks. This most be declared before a request from the GM to do a Perception check. A Player can use this and take 20 for an automatic 22 perception to the surroundings.
* Telekinetic
:: The Shield Splicer can warp a small shield around any object no heavier then 10lds and move it around a roughly 10ft reach of there person.
* Sense Fields
:: The shield Splicer gets +2 to Perception for 20 minutes once this is declared. This is stackable with 'Sixth Sense'. However this only works when detecting force fields or any time of energy shield in a 60ft radius.
* Shape Shield
:: This allows a Shield Splicer to shape a small (1ft by 1ft) nearly invisible shield with no effect. It slowly dissipates over a period of 1 hour per Shield Splicer level. If something dirupts the shield in any way a signal is raised in the Shield Splicer's mind informing him of the disturbance.

'''Level 1''':
* Force Push
:: This is considered a ranged Bull Rush. The range of this is 10ft + (5ft x 1/2 Shield Splicer level). The CTO for this roll substitutes the Strength Modifier for the Constitution Modifier. Sense the Shield Splicer is ranged this doesn't provoke and attack of opportunity unless the target can reach the Splicer with a melee weapon. The Shield Splicer doesn't need to move. All other rules for Bull Rush apply.
* Sense Motion
:: This takes a full round action. The Shield Splicer sends out shield particulates in the air. Whenever an enemy target moves the Shield Splicer can sense and attack. Until the next round the Shield Splicer can preform Ranged Attacks of Opportunity on enemy targets that move. The number of Attacks of Opportunity that can happen is the number of attack actions the Shield Splicer can preform in a normal turn.
:: '''NOTE''': A Character may attack more then once if they have the Extra Attack special. This doesn't mean that Character can attack that many times on an Attack of Opportunity only that that Character can preform that many different Attacks of Opportunity. By default characters can only preform a single Attack of Opportunity.
* Force Wall
:: A force wall that can be up to 15ft by 5ft long. This shield has a DR of 2 + (1/2 Shield Splicer level) and can last 1d4 + 1 turns. The Force wall can be shapped by the Shield Splicer upon casting. Unlike the Shield Splicers special 'Shield Manipulator' ability this shield is fixed too its location and cannot be reshaped. Also enemies can move through the shield unharmed.
* Reflection
:: A bright, highly reflective, shield is summoned. It is no larger then 1ft by 1ft and shines both visible light as well as multi over energy wave lengths. This shield stays in position for 1d4 turns. Confusing eyes as well as sensors. Any enemy has to roll a Wisdom check or get the [[Conditions#Blinded|Blinded]] condition for 1 turn. Also weather the check was successful or not all if an Enemy target is attempting to hit someone on the other side of this light they take a Major -4 to there accuracy roll for the duration the shield exists.
* Shield Imbue Weapon
:: The Shield Splicer can Imbue any target weapon with a small shield that provides an extra kick to weapon damage. This shield lasts for 1d6 turns. And does 1d6 extra damage. At level 4 it does 2d6 and at level 8 it does 3d6.

'''Level 2''':
* Cloak
:: This provides the shield splicer with partial concealment. It lasts for 1d4 + (1/4 Splicer lvl). The cloak can be negated if a tracking device or other targeting assist is used to help enemy players see the Shield Splicer.
* Force Punch
:: This is considered a Ranged attack and the target is not able to see it coming so they are considered Flat Footed. Following the rules for [[Weapons#Melee.2FMartial_Arts_Combat|Melee/Martial Art Combat]] expect replace the Strength bonus with Constitution. The range of this is 5ft + (5ft Splicer lvl) Other then that it is the same as a normal punch.
* Boost Shield
:: This is a technique that brings back some HP to the shield used by the 'Shield Manipulator' special ability. This brings 5HP + (1HP per Shield Splicer Level).
* Force Trip
:: This is a ranged Trip technique. Just like Force Push the Strength is substituted for the Constitution Modifier. The range is 5ft + (5ft for every 1/4 Splicer lvl).

'''Level 3''':
* Force Smash
:: A nearly invisible hardened block of shield smashing into a target by a swift motion of the Shield Splicer. This does 1d8 + Conn Mod worth of damage. An additional 1d8 at 5th and 9th level. The range is 15ft + 5ft per Splicer level. The target can attempt to partially evade with a Dexterity Check. A successful check allows for only 1/2 damage and to avoid being knocked prone. A failure forces the target prone.
* Shield Crash
:: By negating any of his own active shields the Shield Splicer can also force other shields within a 30ft + (10ft per Splicer lvl) to 'crash'. This includes ally shields. This stays in effect for 1d4 + Conn mod turns. If an enemy is a Shield Splicer or otherwise using a Shield Connected through Cybernetic implants that must roll a Constitution save of DC15 or be knocked out for 1d4 turns.
* Hold Person
:: Considered a ranged Grapple. This is much like Force Trip or Force Push. It also substitutes Strength of Constitution when calculating the CTO. This moves range is 5ft + (5ft for every 1/4 Splicer lvl). And otherwise follows the same rules for Grapple. Except this cannot be turned into a 'Pin'.

'''Level 4''':
* Force Crush
:: The Shield Splicer envelops a shield around an enemy and uses it to crush the enemy to bits. The range is 10ft + (5ft per Splicer lvl) The damage is 2d10 + Conn Mod. At 10ft level it goes too 3d10 + Conn Mod. The enemy target can preform a Strength check to attempt to fight back against the shield. The DC is 10 + 4 (The Technique level) + Conn Mod. If successful the target only takes 1/2 damage.
* Directed Overload
:: This takes a full round action and provokes an Attack of Opportunity. The shield splicer focuses a massive amount of shield and concentrates it at a single target. The Splicer has to roll a Constitution check. The damage is the check score. If the player rolls a 5 or below the attack does not damage. If the player rolls a 1 the Splicer passes out for 1d4 turns.

'''Level 5''':
* Force Charge
:: This is considered a full around action. This is a Shield Splicer version of the Charge Combat Technique. The two main differences is that the shield splicer doesn't need to move and that like Hold Person and Force Push this technique switches out the Strength Modifier for Constitution Modifier when calculating the CTO. The range is 10ft + (5ft per 1/2 Splicer lvl). The shield Splicer also provokes an Attack of Opportunity from any adjacent enemies too himself. The Splicer can also do damage and the damage is equivalent to a Force Push x 2.
* Splintered Shield
:: The Shield Splicer concentrates shield particulates into a fine area and then lets go of it at the same time he energizes it with a massive amount of energy. The resulting nearly invisible explosion causes an area of effect of Type Circle, dimensions (3)15ft. The damage is 4d6 + Conn Mod. The targets can attempt to avoid the blast by doing a Dexterity Check against the Technique for 1/2 damage.

== Swindler's Techniques ==

'''Level 0''':
* Determine Fate
* Cheaters Eye
* The Right Time
* Warp Ahoy

'''Level 1''':
* Back Stab
* Luckiest
* Good Graces
* Rewind

'''Level 2''':
* Ill Will
* Bestow Luck
* Double Take

'''Level 3''':
* Master of Fortune
* Distort Time

;Fortune’s Favour
Starting at 4th level, the Swindler learns to subtly manipulate the fortunes of his adversaries, making him harder to strike in combat. He can spend an action point to gain a +2 luck bonus to Defense against all attacks for 1 round. The Swindler must use this ability on his turn, and the bonus lasts until just before the Swindler’s next turn. A Swindler uses this ability instead of
Dodge on his turn.

The luck bonus to Defense increases to +4 at 7th level and +6 at 10th level.

;Warp Probability
At 5th level, the Swindler can affect another creature’s attack roll, skill check, ability check, level check, or saving throw. As a free action during another creature’s turn, the Swindler can spend an action point to alter the target’s d20 roll result. The Swindler must be within 30 feet of the target, must be able to see the target, and must declare that he’s spending the action point before the the result of the target’s roll is revealed. The Swindler’s action-point die result counts either as a bonus or penalty to the target’s roll, at the Swindler’s discretion.

At 8th level, the range of this ability increases to 60 feet

Techniques

2016-01-12T00:21:15Z

173.203.4.162: /* Shield Splicer Techniques */

''' THIS PAGE IS STILL UNDER CONSTRUCTION! '''

Techniques are special combat moves that a Character can preform. They can cause damage like a normal attack but often are used to give an enemy a condition or effect them in some other way besides damage. For example they can immobilize an enemy or cause them to be distracted for a time. Techniques can also be used to assist ally characters by providing buffs to their stats.

The techniques below are separated out by each Advance Class they are associated with. First however is the 'Combat Techniques' these are generic techniques that any character can preform at level 0 and beyond.

Combat Techniques rules are explained in the Combat Techniques section. These rules are special to Combat and Advanced Combat Techniques and use a Characters CTO and CTD. This is because all Characters are able to preform these types of Techniques. However other techniques that are largely Class based have a separate set of rules. These are explained below.

Each Technique is associated with one of the Character's 6 main Abilities. Techniques for a specific class are always tide a single main Ability. This ability provides the modifier for that technique. Whenever using that technique and it states to use the modifier it is referring to the ability modifier.

A Technique may require an opposing check. Meaning that the target may have a chance to avoid the technique or at the very least have it effect them less. Usually this means half damage or no damage. An opposing check is preformed by the victim of the technique and is usually an Ability Check. The DC of that check is determined by the user of the technique. It is 10 + Technique Level + Modifier + Misc Mods.

A technique usually takes a standard action unless specified otherwise.

Preforming a technique in melee range of an enemy provokes an Attack of Opportunity.

A Character can only preform a Class specific technique (that means any techniques other then Combat/Advanced Combat Techniques) so many times. To determine the number of times in between full rest that a Character can preform a technique you will need to review the [[Advance_Classes|Advance Class]] page. The class determines how many unique techniques can be learned as well as how many can be used per day. There may be a time when a Character can learn more unique techniques then there are available. That just means that the Character can use that many. A Character cannot learn a technique outside of the Combat techniques without a class or feat specifying that they can.

== Combat Techniques ==

All combat techniques are considered Level 0 techniques. And each Character has access to all of them. To roll for a Combat Technique a Character uses a D20 and adds there Combat Technique Offense score or CTO for short. The DC is the targets Combat Technique Defense or CTD. If the target doesn't have a CTD then the roll is simply to check if its a 1 which would imply instant failure. However most things that do not have a CTD are not considered a valid target for a Combat Technique.

To read more about Combat and actions that can be done in Combat please go [[Combat#The_Combat_Phase_.28Step_4.29|here]].

'''Bull Rush''':
: You can make a bull rush as a standard action or as part of a charge, in place of the melee attack. You can only bull rush an opponent who is no more than one size category larger than you. A bull rush attempts to push an opponent straight back without doing any harm. If you do not have the Improved Bull Rush feat, or a similar ability, initiating a bull rush provokes an attack of opportunity from the target of your maneuver.

: If your attack is successful, your target is pushed back 5 feet. For every 5 by which your attack exceeds your opponent's CTD you can push the target back an additional 5 feet. You can move with the target if you wish but you must have the available movement to do so. If your attack fails, your movement ends in front of the target.

: An enemy being moved by a bull rush does not provoke an attack of opportunity because of the movement unless you possess the Greater Bull Rush feat. You cannot bull rush a creature into a square that is occupied by a solid object or obstacle. If there is another creature in the way of your bull rush, you must immediately make a Combat Technique check to bull rush that creature. You take a –4 penalty on this check for each creature being pushed beyond the first. If you are successful, you can continue to push the creatures a distance equal to the lesser result. For example, if a fighter bull rushes a goblin for a total of 15 feet, but there is another goblin 5 feet behind the first, he must make another Combat Technique check against the second goblin after having pushed the first 5 feet. If his check reveals that he can push the second goblin a total of 20 feet, he can continue to push both goblins another 10 feet (since the first goblin will have moved a total of 15 feet).

'''Disarm''':
: You can attempt to disarm your opponent in place of a melee attack. If you do not have the Improved Disarm feat, or a similar ability, attempting to disarm a foe provokes an attack of opportunity from the target of your maneuver. Attempting to disarm a foe while unarmed imposes a –4 penalty on the attack.

: If your attack is successful, your target drops one item it is carrying of your choice (even if the item is wielded with two hands). If your attack exceeds the CTD of the target by 10 or more, the target drops the items it is carrying in both hands (maximum two items if the target has more than two hands). If your attack fails by 10 or more, you drop the weapon that you were using to attempt the disarm.

'''Grapple''':
: As a standard action, you can attempt to grapple a foe, hindering his combat options. If you do not have Improved Grapple, grab, or a similar ability, attempting to grapple a foe provokes an attack of opportunity from the target of your maneuver. Humanoid creatures without two free hands attempting to grapple a foe take a –4 penalty on the Combat Technique roll. If successful, both you and the target gain the grappled condition. If you successfully grapple a creature that is not adjacent to you, move that creature to an adjacent open space (if no space is available, your grapple fails). Although both creatures have the grappled condition, you can, as the creature that initiated the grapple, release the grapple as a free action, removing the condition from both you and the target. If you do not release the grapple, you must continue to make a check each round, as a standard action, to maintain the hold. If your target does not break the grapple, you get a +5 circumstance bonus on grapple checks made against the same target in subsequent rounds. Once you are grappling an opponent, a successful check allows you to continue grappling the foe, and also allows you to perform one of the following actions (as part of the standard action spent to maintain the grapple).

* Move

:You can move both yourself and your target up to half your speed. At the end of your movement, you can place your target in any square adjacent to you. If you attempt to place your foe in a hazardous location, such as in a wall of fire or over a pit, the target receives a free attempt to break your grapple with a +4 bonus.

* Damage

:You can inflict damage to your target equal to your unarmed strike, a natural attack, or an attack made with armor spikes or a light or one-handed weapon. This damage can be either lethal or nonlethal.

* Pin

:You can give your opponent the pinned condition (see Conditions). Despite pinning your opponent, you still only have the grappled condition, but you lose your Dexterity bonus to AC.

* Tie Up

:If you have your target pinned, otherwise restrained, or unconscious, you can use rope to tie him up. This works like a pin effect, but the DC to escape the bonds is equal to 20 + your Combat Technique Bonus (instead of your CTD). The ropes do not need to make a check every round to maintain the pin. If you are grappling the target, you can attempt to tie him up in ropes, but doing so requires a Combat Technique check at a –10 penalty. If the DC to escape from these bindings is higher than 20 + the target's CTO, the target cannot escape from the bonds, even with a natural 20 on the check.

* If You Are Grappled

:If you are grappled, you can attempt to break the grapple as a standard action by making a Combat Technique check (DC equal to your opponent's CTD; this does not provoke an attack of opportunity) or Escape Artist check (with a DC equal to your opponent's CTD). If you succeed, you break the grapple and can act normally. Alternatively, if you succeed, you can become the grappler, grappling the other creature (meaning that the other creature cannot freely release the grapple without making a Combat Technique check, while you can). Instead of attempting to break or reverse the grapple, you can take any action that doesn’t require two hands to perform, such as cast a spell or make an attack or full attack with a light or one-handed weapon against any creature within your reach, including the creature that is grappling you. See the grappled condition for additional details. If you are pinned, your actions are very limited. See the pinned condition in Conditions for additional details.

* Multiple Creatures

: Multiple creatures can attempt to grapple one target. The creature that first initiates the grapple is the only one that makes a check, with a +2 bonus for each creature that assists in the grapple (using the Aid Another action). Multiple creatures can also assist another creature in breaking free from a grapple, with each creature that assists (using the Aid Another action) granting a +2 bonus on the grappled creature's Combat Technique check.

'''Overrun''':
: As a standard action, or as part of a charge, you can attempt to overrun your target, moving through its square. You can only overrun an opponent who is no more than one size category larger than you. If you do not have the Improved Overrun feat, or a similar ability, initiating an overrun provokes an attack of opportunity from the target of your technique. If your overrun attempt fails, you stop in the space directly in front of the opponent, or the nearest open space in front of the creature if there are other creatures occupying that space.

: When you attempt to overrun a target, it can choose to avoid you, allowing you to pass through its square without requiring an attack. If your target does not avoid you, make a Combat Technique check as normal. If your maneuver is successful, you move through the target's space. If your attack exceeds your opponent's CTD by 5 or more, you move through the target's space and the target is knocked prone. If the target has more than two legs, add +2 to the DC of the Combat Technique attack roll for each additional leg it has.

'''Sunder''':
: You can attempt to sunder an item held or worn by your opponent as part of the standard action. If you do not have the Improved Sunder feat, or a similar ability, attempting to sunder an item provokes an attack of opportunity from the target of your maneuver.

: If your attack is successful, you deal damage to the item normally. Damage that exceeds the object's Hardness is subtracted from its hit points. If an object has equal to or less than half its total hit points remaining, it gains the broken condition. If the damage you deal would reduce the object to less than 0 hit points, you can choose to destroy it. If you do not choose to destroy it, the object is left with only 1 hit point and the broken condition.

'''Trip''':
: You can attempt to trip your opponent in place of a melee attack. You can only trip an opponent who is no more than one size category larger than you. If you do not have the Improved Trip feat, or a similar ability, initiating a trip provokes an attack of opportunity from the target of your maneuver.

: If your attack exceeds the target's CTD, the target is knocked prone. If your attack fails by 10 or more, you are knocked prone instead. If the target has more than two legs, add +2 to the DC of the Combat Technique attack roll for each additional leg it has. Some creatures—such as oozes, creatures without legs, and flying creatures—cannot be tripped.

'''Feint''':
: '''NOTE''': Feint doesn't use a Character's CTO/CTD. And thus it may seam to not be a technique. However this is the most logical location for it and besides the not using the CTO/CTA for rolls all other rules associated with Combat Techniques apply.
: Feinting is a standard action. To feint, make a Bluff skill check. The DC of this check is equal to 10 + your opponent's affinity bonus + your opponent's Wisdom modifier. If your opponent is trained in Sense Motive, the DC is instead equal to 10 + your opponent's Sense Motive bonus, if higher. If successful, the next melee attack you make against the target does not allow him to use his Dexterity bonus to AC (if any). This attack must be made on or before your next turn.

: When feinting against a creature of animal Intelligence (1 or 2), you take a –8 penalty. Against a creature lacking an Intelligence score, it's impossible. Feinting in combat does not provoke attacks of opportunity.

'''Charge''':
: Charging is a special full-round action that allows you to move up to twice your speed and attack during the action. Charging, however, carries tight restrictions on how you can move.

* Movement During a Charge

: You must move before your attack, not after. You must move at least 10 feet (2 squares) and may move up to double your speed directly toward the designated opponent. If you move a distance equal to your speed or less, you can also draw a weapon during a charge attack if your affinity bonus is at least +1.

: You must have a clear path toward the opponent, and nothing can hinder your movement (such as difficult terrain or obstacles). You must move to the closest space from which you can attack the opponent. If this space is occupied or otherwise blocked, you can't charge. If any line from your starting space to the ending space passes through a square that blocks movement, slows movement, or contains a creature (even an ally), you can't charge. Helpless creatures don't stop a charge.

: If you don't have line of sight to the opponent at the start of your turn, you can't charge that opponent.

: You can't take a 5-foot step in the same round as a charge or any other free action except for Speak.

: If you are able to take only a standard action on your turn, you can still charge, but you are only allowed to move up to your speed (instead of up to double your speed) and you cannot draw a weapon unless you possess the Quick Draw feat. You can't use this option unless you are restricted to taking only a standard action on your turn.

* Attacking on a Charge

: After moving, you may make a single melee attack. You get a +2 bonus on the accuracy roll and take a –2 penalty to your AC until the start of your next turn.

: A charging character gets a +2 bonus on CTO rolls made to bull rush an opponent.

: Even if you have extra attacks, from 'Extra Attack' special or multiple weapons, you only get to make one attack during a charge.

: Lances and Charge Attacks: A lance deals double damage if employed by a mounted character in a charge.

: Weapons Readied against a Charge: Spears, tridents, and other weapons with the brace feature deal double damage when readied (set) and used against a charging character.

* Swinging Charge from Ropes or Vines

: As a full-round action, you can swing using a rope, vine, or similar aid within reach toward an opponent and make a single melee attack. You must move at least 20 feet (4 squares) and you must start on elevation that is equal or higher than that of your opponent. Your movement provokes attacks of opportunity as normal.

: This action is otherwise treated as a charge attack.

== Advanced Combat Techniques ==

These are combat techniques that any player can learn using the Advanced Combat Technique Feat. These feats are also available for the [[Advance_Classes#Helix_Warrior|Helix Warrior]].

'''Throw''':
: You can attempt to throw a foe as a standard action. You can only throw an opponent that is no larger than you (size category wise). A throw technique attempts to grab and toss another character to a new location without doing any harm. If you do not have the Improved Advanced Combat Techniques feat or a similar ability, attempting to throw a foe provokes an attack of opportunity from the target of your maneuver. If your attack is successful, you may move your target 5 feet to a new location. For every 5 by which your attack exceeds your opponent’s CTD, you can move the target an additional 5 feet.

: An enemy being throw does not provoke an attack of opportunity because of the movement. You cannot move a creature into a square that is occupied by a solid object or obstacle.

'''Pin''':
: You can attempt to directly Pin a foe as a full around action. You can only directly Pin an opponent that is no larger then one size category. This technique is similar to grapple except it goes directly into a pin state giving the opponent the Pinned condition immediately. This move provokes an attack of opportunity unless the attacker has Improved Advanced Combat Techniques feat or similar ability.

'''Combination Melee Attack''':
: You can attempt a weapon free melee attack as a full round action. This technique allows the player to roll twice for an accuracy check for a Melee Attack using only physical combat and then take the highest roll. If a hit is confirmed the damage dice follows the same rules as a single melee punch noted in [[Weapons#Melee.2FMartial_Arts_Combat|Melee & Martial Arts Combat]] except it is 1 damage dice higher.

'''Melee Kick''':
: You can attempt a kicking attack move as a full round action. The same rules noted in the [[Weapons#Melee.2FMartial_Arts_Combat|Melee & Martial Arts Combat]] apply except that if the CTO role is 5 or higher then the opponent CTD the attack also auto trips the enemy.

: Note that the enemy may have a bonus again trip moves. This bonus is added on top of the +5 and the roll must beat the CTD + 5 + extra trip bonus.

== Electro-Mancer Techniques ==

These Techniques are primary used by the [[Advance_Classes#Electro-Mancer|Electro-Mancer]] Advanced Class. These Techniques are associated with a Character's Intelligence ability.

'''Level 0''':
* Magnetic Left
:: Allows a Electro-Mancer the ability to lift light weight objects (5bls + 5bls odd level of Electro-Mancer) up to 10ft in front of them.
* Sense Electronics
:: When used this ability allows the Electro-Mancer heightened senses of the electromagnetic field. Anything the produces an electromagnetic field can be more easily sensed and located. The range is roughly 30ft and the Character gets a +10 to perception for 20 minutes.
:: GM Note: Almost all things produce at least some electromagnetic disturbance. The only things immune to the perception bonus would be specially shielded equipment. Most technology and biology will still be sensed by a Electro-Mancers temporarily heightened senses.
* Electric Drain
:: An Electro-Mancer can drain the power of an electronic device. If the device is battery powered it will not work again until charged. If the device has an active power source then the device will function normally once the Electro-Mancer stops. The Electro-Mancer has to be able to touch the device's internal components in order to preform this action.
* Power Surge
:: The opposite of a Electric Drain the Electro-Mancer can induce higher then recommended amounts of voltage into an electronic device. The damage is considered extremely minor but enough to stop the device from working until repaired. The Electro-Mancer has to be able to touch the device's internal components. The system must also not have any type of backups. Most robots and cybernetic implants, and ship equipment have redundant systems to protect against surges.

'''Level 1''':
* Shocking Grasp
:: A touch attack. The Electro-Mancer reaches out with sparks flying from there hand. This causes a shock in the target that deals 1d6 + Intelligence Mode. Ever 4 character levels this adds another 1d6.
* Static Shock
:: A touch attack. The Electro-Mancer attacks the target with a shock that attempts to paralyze the opponent. The opponent rolls a Constitution Check against the technique. If the check fails the opponent is Entangled for 1d4 turns.
* Static Armor
:: A full round action. The Electro-Mancer can imbue himself or an ally with a field of electricity that helps shield from damage by using electromagnetic forces to repel attacks. At level 1 this provides a +2 to AC for up to 1 hour. At level 7 this provides +4 to AC for up to 4 hours.
* Grounded Body
:: A full round action. The Electro-Mancer can ground himself. This provides 10 + Int Mod of DR against Electric based attacks.
* Imbue Weapon
:: The Electro-Mancer can imbue any weapon with electricity. For 1d4 + Int Mod of rounds the weapon has an added 1d6 Electric Based damage added to its damage dice. At level 5 this goes up to 2d6 and at level 10 it goes up to 3d6.

'''Level 2''':
* Electro Shield
:: The Electro-Mancer can produce a 5ft by 5ft wall where damage is partially absorbed when going through it in one direction. The wall has a DR of 0 + Electro-Mancer lvl + Int Mod and can last for 1d4 turns.
* Improved Power Surge
:: This is now considered a ranged touch attack. It has a range of 10ft. It now can also do damage. 2d8 + Int Mod. At level 6 2d8, lvl 9 3d8. This only works on electronics such as robots or biology that has Cybernetic implants.
* Thunder Wave
:: This allows an Electro-Mancer the ability to project a sudden concentration of magnetic force toward an enemy or group of enemies. The magnetic field shoots out in every direction acting similar to a grenade. The effect is a similar to a Bull Rush Combat Technique on all who are caught in its wave. A Successful Dexterity Check again the technique can allow the target too ignore its effects but still takes damage. The damage is 2d8 + Int Mod. The effect is that the target is pushed back 5ft and is considered prone. The Area Type is Circle and the Range Increment is (2)10ft. The Range Increment goes up by 1 at level 6 and again at level 9.
* Electric Burst
:: The Electro-Mancer concentrates on the target and suddenly they are hit by a massive burst of electricity. The opponent can roll a Constitution check for half damage. The damage is 1d10 and at level 6 2d10 and at level 9 3d10.

'''Level 3''':
* Thunder Ball
:: This is a full round action. The Electro-Mancer concentrates a large ball of electric energy in his hands and then lunches it at an opponent. The Electro-Mancer does not need to target the opponent right away. Instead instead taking only a Standard Action the Electro-Mancer can hold the ball in a free hand. At 7th level the Electro-Mancer can take another turn to produce a second ball of electricity in another free hand. The Electro-Mancer can hurl a Thunder Ball the way a Character would toss a grenade. If the Electro-Mancer has an 'Extra-Attack' special then he can throw both balls in a single turn. The damage is 3d6 + Int Mod. Anything adjacent to the target (friend or foe) will take 1/2 damage. At 10th level this damage goes up to 5d6 + Int Mod.
* Speed Of Light
:: The Electro-Mancer can infuse his muscles or any other Electro-Mancer's muscles with extra power. For 1d6 + Int Mod turns the target has triple speed and a +2 moderate bonus to Dexterity.
* Thunder Strike
:: The Electro-Mancer jesters at the target and a thunder bolt shots out an hits the target. The opponent can take a Dexterity check to attempt to avoid the direction of the jester to completely avoid damage. The damage is 2d8 + Int Mod. An extra 1d8 for every other level after 5th level.

'''Level 4''':
* Energize Body
:: The Electro-Mancer can target himself or any other ally and simply needs to touch the person. The target gets +2 moderate bonus to all accuracy, ability, and skill checks. This also makes the target temporarily immune to the follow conditions. Dazed, Exhausted, Fatigued, Nauseated, Shaken. This effect latest for 1d4 + Int Mod turns.
* Lightening Blade
:: The Electro-Mancer summons electricity to a free hand and shapes it into a blade. This blade can do 1d8 + Int Mod damage and negates DR. This also latest for 1d6 + Int Mod turns. At 10th level the Electro-Mancer can consume the blade for a free lower level technique if the blade hasn't be used for more turns then the Characters Ind Mod.

'''Level 5''':
* Improved Electro Shield
:: This is a different version of the Electro Shield. The shield is now larger and can change shape. The shield has a DR of 7 + Int mod and is 5ft + 5ft for ever 2 levels of Electro-Mancer. The wall also can do damage to any Character walking through it in the wrong direction. The damage can be halved with a successful Constitution check. The damage is 1d8.
* Lightening Bolt
:: The Electro-Mancer merrily points at a target and a bolt of lightening springs from his hand. This lighten can bounce of the target and onto any adjacent enemy targets within 5ft. (This means that there can be a 5ft empty square in between them. Simply a 5ft reach) The lightening can hit up to an additional 3 enemy targets. Each time doing 1/2 the damage as the previous target. The initial damage is 4d10 + Int Mod. Each victim of the Lightening bolt can attempt a Dexterity check to jump out of range. If target is successful the lightening bolt may still attempt to hit another target that is within 5ft reach. If there are no other targets then this stops.

== Field Officer Techniques ==

'''Level 0''':
* Leadership
* Display Courage
* Stead Fast

'''Level 1''':
* Commanding Presence
* Direct Allies
* Invoke Enemy

'''Level 2''':
* Weaken Resolve
* Imbue Strength

'''Level 3''':
* Action Trust
* Deadly Gaze

;Leadership
:By providing supervision and guidance, a Field Officer can improve an ally’s chances of succeeding at a skill check. Instead of making a skill check to aid another, the Field Officer makes a Diplomacy check (DC 10). He cannot take 10 or take 20 on the check. Success grants a competence bonus on the ally’s skill check equal to the Field Officer’s Charisma bonus or Reputation bonus, :whichever is greater. The ally must be within sight and hearing distance of the Field Officer and must be able to understand him.

:A Field Officer cannot use this ability on himself.

;Commanding Presence
:At 8th level and beyond, a Field Officer can use an attack action and his commanding presence to enable an ally or weaken a single foe’s resolve.
Enabling an ally requires an attack action and a successful Diplomacy check (DC 20). If the check succeeds, the Field Officer can negate any one of the following harmful conditions affecting a single ally: cowering, dazed, fatigued, nauseated, panicked, shaken, or stunned. The ally to be affected must be within sight and hearing distance of the Field Officer and must be able to understand him.

:The Field Officer cannot use this ability on himself.

:Weakening a foe’s resolve requires an attack action and a successful Intimidate check (DC = target’s level check) . If the check succeeds, the target is shaken for a number of rounds equal to 1d6 + one-half the Field Officer’s class level + the Field Officer’s Charisma modifier. The target must be within sight and hearing distance of the Field Officer and must be able to understand him. A target that resists the Field Officer’s attempt to weaken its resolve is immune to the Field Officer’s use of this ability for 24 hours.

;Action Trust
:At 10th level, the Field Officer’s mere presence inspires, safeguards, and motivates his allies.

:As a free action, a Field Officer may spend one of his action points to modify an ally’s attack roll, skill check, ability check, level check, or saving throw result by +2d6 (applying a bonus of +2 to +12).

:The ally to be affected must be within sight and hearing distance of the Field Officer to gain the benefits of the Field Officer’s spent action point. A Field Officer may use this ability once per round, and not on himself (he gains the normal benefits for spending an action point on himself).

:Any character may transfer some or all of her action points to the Field Officer as a free action. The Field Officer must consent to the transfer, and these action points become the Field Officer’s to spend as he sees fit.

== Helix Warrior Techniques ==

'''Level 0''':
* Detect Danger:
* Endure Pain:
* Endure Hunger:
* Internal Fire:

'''Level 1''':
* Combo Punch
* Staff Stance
* Double Bladed Stance
* Running Kick
* The Correct Mind:

'''Level 2''':
* Combo Kick
* Blinding Strike
* Scorpion Style

'''Level 3''':
* Empty Fist
* Deadly Strike

== Shield Splicer Techniques ==

This is the list of Techniques for the [[Advance_Classes#Shield_Splicer|Shield Splicer]]. The shield splicer can also learn [[Techniques#Advanced_Combat_Techniques|Advanced Combat Techniques]] as Level 0 techniques.

'''Level 0''':
* Sixth Sense
:: For 20 minutes the shield splicer gains a +2 Moderate Bonus to perception checks. This most be declared before a request from the GM to do a Perception check. A Player can use this and take 20 for an automatic 22 perception to the surroundings.
* Telekinetic
:: The Shield Splicer can warp a small shield around any object no heavier then 10lds and move it around a roughly 10ft reach of there person.
* Sense Fields
:: The shield Splicer gets +2 to Perception for 20 minutes once this is declared. This is stackable with 'Sixth Sense'. However this only works when detecting force fields or any time of energy shield in a 60ft radius.
* Shape Shield
:: This allows a Shield Splicer to shape a small (1ft by 1ft) nearly invisible shield with no effect. It slowly dissipates over a period of 1 hour per Shield Splicer level. If something dirupts the shield in any way a signal is raised in the Shield Splicer's mind informing him of the disturbance.

'''Level 1''':
* Force Push
:: This is considered a ranged Bull Rush. The range of this is 10ft + (5ft x 1/2 Shield Splicer level). The CTO for this roll substitutes the Strength Modifier for the Constitution Modifier. Sense the Shield Splicer is ranged this doesn't provoke and attack of opportunity unless the target can reach the Splicer with a melee weapon. The Shield Splicer doesn't need to move. All other rules for Bull Rush apply.
* Sense Motion
:: This takes a full round action. The Shield Splicer sends out shield particulates in the air. Whenever an enemy target moves the Shield Splicer can sense and attack. Until the next round the Shield Splicer can preform Ranged Attacks of Opportunity on enemy targets that move. The number of Attacks of Opportunity that can happen is the number of attack actions the Shield Splicer can preform in a normal turn.
:: '''NOTE''': A Character may attack more then once if they have the Extra Attack special. This doesn't mean that Character can attack that many times on an Attack of Opportunity only that that Character can preform that many different Attacks of Opportunity. By default characters can only preform a single Attack of Opportunity.
* Force Wall
:: A force wall that can be up to 15ft by 5ft long. This shield has a DR of 2 + (1/2 Shield Splicer level) and can last 1d4 + 1 turns. The Force wall can be shapped by the Shield Splicer upon casting. Unlike the Shield Splicers special 'Shield Manipulator' ability this shield is fixed too its location and cannot be reshaped. Also enemies can move through the shield unharmed.
* Reflection
:: A bright, highly reflective, shield is summoned. It is no larger then 1ft by 1ft and shines both visible light as well as multi over energy wave lengths. This shield stays in position for 1d4 turns. Confusing eyes as well as sensors. Any enemy has to roll a Wisdom check or get the [[Conditions#Blinded|Blinded]] condition for 1 turn. Also weather the check was successful or not all if an Enemy target is attempting to hit someone on the other side of this light they take a Major -4 to there accuracy roll for the duration the shield exists.
* Shield Imbue Weapon
:: The Shield Splicer can Imbue any target weapon with a small shield that provides an extra kick to weapon damage. This shield lasts for 1d6 turns. And does 1d6 extra damage. At level 4 it does 2d6 and at level 8 it does 3d6.

'''Level 2''':
* Cloak
:: This provides the shield splicer with partial concealment. It lasts for 1d4 + (1/4 Splicer lvl). The cloak can be negated if a tracking device or other targeting assist is used to help enemy players see the Shield Splicer.
* Force Punch
:: This is considered a Ranged attack and the target is not able to see it coming so they are considered Flat Footed. Following the rules for [[Weapons#Melee.2FMartial_Arts_Combat|Melee/Martial Art Combat]] expect replace the Strength bonus with Constitution. The range of this is 5ft + (5ft Splicer lvl) Other then that it is the same as a normal punch.
* Boost Shield
:: This is a technique that brings back some HP to the shield used by the 'Shield Manipulator' special ability. This brings 5HP + (1HP per Shield Splicer Level).
* Force Trip
:: This is a ranged Trip technique. Just like Force Push the Strength is substituted for the Constitution Modifier. The range is 5ft + (5ft for every 1/4 Splicer lvl).

'''Level 3''':
* Force Smash
:: A nearly invisible hardened block of shield smashing into a target by a swift motion of the Shield Splicer. This does 1d8 + Conn Mod worth of damage. An additional 1d8 at 5th and 9th level. The range is 15ft + 5ft per Splicer level. The target can attempt to partially evade with a Dexterity Check. A successful check allows for only 1/2 damage and to avoid being knocked prone. A failure forces the target prone.
* Shield Crash
:: By negating any of his own active shields the Shield Splicer can also force other shields within a 30ft + (10ft per Splicer lvl) to 'crash'. This includes ally shields. This stays in effect for 1d4 + Conn mod turns. If an enemy is a Shield Splicer or otherwise using a Shield Connected through Cybernetic implants that must roll a Constitution save of DC15 or be knocked out for 1d4 turns.
* Hold Person
:: Considered a ranged Grapple. This is much like Force Trip or Force Push. It also substitutes Strength of Constitution when calculating the CTO. This moves range is 5ft + (5ft for every 1/4 Splicer lvl). And otherwise follows the same rules for Grapple. Except this cannot be turned into a 'Pin'.

'''Level 4''':
* Force Crush
:: The Shield Splicer envelops a shield around an enemy and uses it to crush the enemy to bits. The range is 10ft + (5ft per Splicer lvl) The damage is 2d10 + Conn Mod. At 10ft level it goes too 3d10 + Conn Mod. The enemy target can preform a Strength check to attempt to fight back against the shield. The DC is 10 + 4 (The Technique level) + Conn Mod. If successful the target only takes 1/2 damage.
* Directed Overload
:: This takes a full round action and provokes an Attack of Opportunity. The shield splicer focuses a massive amount of shield and concentrates it at a single target. The Splicer has to roll a Constitution check. The damage is the check score. If the player rolls a 5 or below the attack does not damage. If the player rolls a 1 the Splicer passes out for 1d4 turns.

'''Level 5''':
* Force Charge
:: This is considered a full around action. This is a Shield Splicer version of the Charge Combat Technique. The two main differences is that the shield splicer doesn't need to move and that like Hold Person and Force Push this technique switches out the Strength Modifier for Constitution Modifier when calculating the CTO. The range is 10ft + (5ft per 1/2 Splicer lvl). The shield Splicer also provokes an Attack of Opportunity from any adjacent enemies too himself. The Splicer can also do damage and the damage is equivalent to a Force Push x 2.
* Splintered Shield
:: The Shield Splicer concentrates shield particulates into a fine area and then lets go of it at the same time he energizes it with a massive amount of energy. The resulting nearly invisible explosion causes an area of effect of Type Circle, dimensions (3)15ft. The damage is 4d6 + Conn Mod. The targets can attempt to avoid the blast by doing a Dexterity Check against the Technique for 1/2 damage.

== Swindler's Techniques ==

'''Level 0''':
* Determine Fate
* Cheaters Eye
* The Right Time
* Warp Ahoy

'''Level 1''':
* Back Stab
* Luckiest
* Good Graces
* Rewind

'''Level 2''':
* Ill Will
* Bestow Luck
* Double Take

'''Level 3''':
* Master of Fortune
* Distort Time

;Fortune’s Favour
Starting at 4th level, the Swindler learns to subtly manipulate the fortunes of his adversaries, making him harder to strike in combat. He can spend an action point to gain a +2 luck bonus to Defense against all attacks for 1 round. The Swindler must use this ability on his turn, and the bonus lasts until just before the Swindler’s next turn. A Swindler uses this ability instead of
Dodge on his turn.

The luck bonus to Defense increases to +4 at 7th level and +6 at 10th level.

;Warp Probability
At 5th level, the Swindler can affect another creature’s attack roll, skill check, ability check, level check, or saving throw. As a free action during another creature’s turn, the Swindler can spend an action point to alter the target’s d20 roll result. The Swindler must be within 30 feet of the target, must be able to see the target, and must declare that he’s spending the action point before the the result of the target’s roll is revealed. The Swindler’s action-point die result counts either as a bonus or penalty to the target’s roll, at the Swindler’s discretion.

At 8th level, the range of this ability increases to 60 feet

Space Ships

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