Areas of Effect

While some powers and abilities target specific creatures, other abilities target an area (usually affecting creatures, objects, and sometimes structures within the area). Typically, a power that targets an Area will affect all creatures within the area, though in some cases the user may choose targets. For creatures on the edge of an area, more than 50% of the space they occupy must be in the area to be affected. The following descriptions help to better describe the types and shapes of areas you may encounter.

Diameter Area

Many powers have an effect that cover a vaguely spherical area, with a diameter measured in feet. These powers are listed as an "X Diameter Area" where X is the diameter of the sphere. Therefore a "20ft diameter area" covers a spherical area 20ft in diameter. The origin point of a diameter is the center point of the area.

Cone

Some powers have an effect that emanates from the user and spreads out in a cone away from them, with a length measured in feet. At its origin (in a location adjacent to the user), the cone has a width of 5ft. At its termination, the cone has a width equal to its length. Therefore a "15ft cone" covers a 5ft wide area adjacent to the user and spreads to a 15ft wide area over the next 15ft.

Line

Some powers have an effect that spreads in a straight line, typically emanating and traveling away from the user. The Line will have a length and width, measured in feet, described by the power. Unless otherwise stated in the power, a Line always takes a straight path. The origin point of a line is a space adjacent to the user.

Wall

Some powers create an effect in a wall, which typically persists for some period of time. The wall will have a maximum length and width determined by the power and at sometimes will need to be in a straight line. At others it will allow the user to shape it with slight curves. The effects of Walls are varied and can deal damage, block Line of Effect, and create physical barriers. A wall's origin point is the line where the wall meets the solid surface it is attached to, usually the ground. For powers that require Line of Perception you must be able to perceive the entire line of the wall's origin.

Cubes

Cubic areas are usually used for powers that create a fog or gas effect. Generally these powers create multiple cubes of area (with measurements determined by the power) that are connected to form an amorphous shape of the user's design. These abilities generally have a persistent effect and sometimes move and shift over time. For cubes, the origin point encompasses the entire volume of the cube. For powers that require Line of Perception, you must be able to perceive the entirety of the cube's volume.