Campaign Traits
The final step in forging your hero is applying the Campaign Layer. These are traits, languages, and roles provided by the DM to anchor your character into the specific setting. Unlike core stats, these are usually "free" or chosen from a limited pool provided at Session Zero.
📜 Lineage & Languages (High Fantasy)
In a fantasy setting, your race or origin often grants "Natural Skills." These represent years of cultural immersion.
Languages: These are treated as Skills. If you know Snake-tongue, you add Might (extra dice) to rolls involving translating ancient reptilian ruins or negotiating with Naga.
Innate Traits: A DM might grant all Elves the "Forest-Walker" skill for free, giving them an edge in woodland survival.
🏎️ Integrated Skills (Cyberpunk & Modern)
In a world of chrome and high-speed chases, certain abilities are considered "Common Knowledge."
Base Skills: In a Cyberpunk setting, the DM may declare that Driving is a baseline skill. Everyone rolls at least 2k1. However, if you spent your life as a getaway driver, you might upgrade this to a Talent (3k2) to represent precision behind the wheel.
Specialized Hardware: Weapon training is often split. While anyone can pull a trigger, the DM might offer specific Talents for:
Pistols: Precision and concealment.
Rifles: Stability and range.
Ordnance: Large-scale demolition and safety protocols.
🚀 Ship Roles (Space Odyssey)
When survival depends on a vacuum-sealed hull, every character is expected to have a "Station." The DM will usually assign or let players choose Roles. These roles provide a free Ability or Talent specific to ship life.
| Role | Responsibility | Starting Bonus (Sample) |
| Pilot | Atmospheric & Space Flight | Talent: Evasive Maneuvers |
| Engineer | Propulsion & Life Support | Ability: "Emergency Patch" (Instant repair) |
| Navigator | Plotting Courses & Scans | Skill: Deep Space Cartography |
| Marine | Security & Boarding | Skill: Zero-G Combat |
🛠️ Working with your DM
These "Goodies" are the bridge between your mechanics and the story. At Session Zero, ask your DM the following:
"What is the Common Language?" (Do we all start with it for free?)
"Are there Role-based bonuses?" (Do I get a free skill for being the team's Medic or Tech-specialist?)
"What equipment is standard?" (Does a Spacefarer start with a basic comm-link and enviro-suit?)
Note to Players: These campaign-specific traits do not count against your starting pool. They are the "Setting Package" provided by your DM to ensure the party is ready for the journey ahead.
🏁 Character Creation: Complete!
You have defined your Stats, spent your XP on Skills and Talents, crafted unique Abilities, and anchored yourself into the DM's world. You are now ready to roll.