Attributes

All creatures have six Attributes that define major qualities of their character. The three attributes that define physical qualities are Strength, Dexterity, and Constitution. The remaining three attributes define mental qualities and are Intelligence, Wisdom, and Charisma. Each attribute is represented by a single score, ranging from 3 to 18 for most characters. With the inclusion of racial modifiers, player characters can achieve up to a score of 20 on their attributes, which is considered extremely high. For example, the strongest man in the world would have a Strength score of 20. Alternatively, a genius with an off-the-charts IQ would have an Intelligence score of 20. As a comparison, scores of 10 or 11 are considered average. While player characters tend to have above average attributes, a commoner would likely have average scores in most attributes.

Attributes impact many aspects of a character, including Attacks, Defenses, Skills, Hitpoints, and Energy. Roleplay can also be greatly influenced by a character's Attributes. For example, a character with high Strength and Constitution could appear big and imposing, using his size to bully others into complying with his demands. A character with a high Charisma could be a social butterfly, always liked wherever he goes and able to smooth-talk favors out of anyone. As your read through the attribute descriptions below, keep in mind those attributes that seem to align with the character concept and personality you have developed.

Understanding Attribute Scores

Sometimes it is hard to qualify what an attribute score means, and what the difference is between a score of 10, 15 or 20. The text below examines the Strength score, as it is one of the easiest scores to understand, but the same logic can be applied to all Attributes.

  • Strength 5: An individual with a Strength score of 5 is considered below average. This creature only has a 50% chance of completing even easy feats of Strength, such as picking up a 40 lb flour sack, something the average person can complete automatically. When attempting to lift heavy objects, this person can only carry about 25 lbs consistently.
  • Strength 10: An individual with a Strength score of 10 is considered average. He can complete simple feats of strength with ease and have a 50% chance of completing a moderate feat, such as carrying an injured person. This person can easily carry about 100 lbs.
  • Strength 15: An individual with a Strength score of 15 is considered above average and relatively strong. This person can generally complete moderate feats of strength with relative ease, and has about a 50% chance of completing a Difficult Feat, such as moving a fallen tree that has blocked the road. This person can easily carry about 225 lbs and can sprint faster then the average person (gaining an additional 5 ft to his movement).
  • Strength 20: An individual with a Strength score of 20 is incredibly strong. This person can automatically complete easy and moderate feats, and has about a 50% chance of performing very difficult tasks, such as lifting a heavy stone column off a trapped ally. He can easily carry about 400 lbs and can move faster then the average person (gaining an additional 5 ft to Skirmish movement and 10 ft to Sprint movement).


Attribute Modifiers

Each Attribute is used to derive an Attribute Accuracy and Attribute Power score, which contribute to a variety of character statistics. The Accuracy Modifier is used in calculating Attack Bonuses, Defenses, and Skill Checks. The Power Modifier is used in calculating Damage and other power effects.