#Attribute-Generation Replacement
Contents
module-toggle: replaces core attribute-modifier distribution (standard array)
#Identity
Replaces core attribute generation. The core distributes the modifiers (-3 to +3) of the 6 attributes (Courage · Finesse · Physique · Wisdom · Presence · Fate) at character creation (attributes). The default is to either freely assign the standard array +2 / +1 / +1 / 0 / 0 / -1 to the 6 attributes, or point-buy (distribute a total of 4 points within the -1 to +3 range, sum +4) — pick one. It grows by +1 attribute (maximum +3 cap) every even dan.
This module replaces that distribution method with the following three variants. Whichever variant, the result must be within the modifier range -3 to +3, and the derived values (Energy 10+Finesse, Wounds 3+Physique, Fate-intervention count = Fate, etc.) and the even-dan growth rule are kept identical to the core.
#§ Variant A: Budget Point-Buy (Balance Emphasis)
A variant that expands the core point-buy into a wider budget.
Procedure:
- All 6 attributes start at 0.
- Freely distribute a modifier budget of +6. 1 point = +1 modifier, refund of -1 point = +1 added elsewhere.
- Each attribute's range is -3 to +3. (Lowering one attribute to -1 increases the budget by that much.)
- All PCs same budget → same starting line.
Example distribution: +3 / +1 / +1 / +1 / +1 / -1 (sum +6) or +2 / +2 / +1 / +1 / 0 / 0 (sum +6)
Effect:
- All PCs balanced. No gap.
- Higher total attributes than the core standard array (sum +3), making generally capable PCs.
- You can make both thinker-type and brawler-type.
- Users: balance emphasis · competitive campaigns. A heroic tone wanting a stronger start than the core.
Setting the budget to +3 matches the strength of the core standard array; +6 is a stronger heroic starting line.
#§ Variant B: Standard Modifier Array (Fast Start)
Procedure:
- All PCs use the same modifier array:
+3 / +2 / +1 / 0 / -1 / -1(sum +4) — an array with greater swings than the core standard array, with distinct strengths and weaknesses. - PCs freely assign to the 6 attributes.
Variant B is a sharp array guaranteeing one strength of +3 and two weaknesses of -1. If you want a gentler distribution, use the core standard array.
Example corpus character: Samurai Genzaburo's core array is of the form +2 / +1 / +1 / 0 / -1 / 0 (Courage strong, Presence weak). The Variant B array raises this swing one more step.
Effect:
- Fastest. Character generation within 5 minutes.
- All PCs at exactly the same strength (array is identical).
- Guarantees one distinct strength of +3 → instantly establishes class identity.
- Users: one-shot · casual · beginner PCs.
#§ Variant C: Random Modifier Assignment (Variability)
A variant that leaves it to luck instead of the core's even distribution. The result always falls within -3 to +3.
Procedure:
- For each of the 6 attributes, roll 2d10 - 11 (range -9 to +9), clamp the result to -3 to +3 (below -3 becomes -3, above +3 becomes +3). Or draw 6 from 7 cards (or a table mapped to a single die) marked -3 to +3.
- Assign the results to the 6 attributes as-is (in roll order) or freely assign (GM's choice).
- If the sum is too low (e.g., sum < 0), at GM discretion one attribute +1 (maintain the +3 cap).
The value the roll determines is the attribute modifier (-3 to +3). The 2d10 is a tool for drawing that modifier, and the result is always clamped to -3 to +3.
Effect:
- Character diversity from the gaps. PCs with a -3 weakness also appear.
- Strong PCs and weak PCs mixed — narrative interest.
- Users: cinematic · manga tone.
#§ Core vs Replacement Comparison
| Axis | Core (modifier distribution) | A budget PB | B standard array | C random |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| time | 10 minutes | 10 minutes | 5 minutes | 5 minutes |
| attribute total | sum +3 to +4 | sum +6 (adjustable) | sum +4 | random |
| PC gap | medium | none | none | high |
| freedom | medium | high | high | low |
Every column is compared on the same modifier -3 to +3 scale. The difference is the total · gap · freedom, not the scale.
#§ Recommended Situations
- A budget PB: competitive campaigns · balance emphasis · a heroic start stronger than the core
- B standard array: one-shot · casual · beginner · instant start
- C random: cinematic · manga tone · narrative of luck
#§ Not Recommended
- A: cinematic (gap absent)
- B: long-term campaigns (PC diversity weak)
- C: competitive campaigns (unfair due to gaps)
#§ Transition Guide
- Core → Replacement: agree before campaign start. All PCs use the same method.
- Session 0 only. Mid-campaign change not recommended.
- Whichever variant is used, the even-dan +1 growth and the derived-value formulas (Energy · Wounds · Fate-intervention, etc.) apply exactly as in the core.
"Attributes are a starting point. But a starting point does not decide every path."