[RPM] True Names

Anders · 11-08-2013, 01:08 PM

I'm trying to setting down rules for True Names in a setting that uses Ritual Path Magic. Thaumatology has some guidelines for what is proper on p.245 - the bonuses run from +0 to +4 depending on how true the name is. I'll use only the extremes - +0 for a public name and +4 for a True Name.

My first idea was to apply a +4 bonus to the checks made to gather energy, but I think that's too powerful. Then we'd almost have to make knowing a True Name a perk-level Unusual Background to keep things under control. But I'm not too familiar with the system - is it too powerful?

My second thought was to apply a +4 to the check to overcome resistance. That seems to be more balanced, and would also limit certain abuses by players (i.e., everyone says their True Names to the mage-healer and gets much better healing).

My third thought, and this one I think I'll definitely go with, is to count as a Connection with the target. You don't need to have a blood sample or know where they're living, the True Name lets the spell find you anywhere. This is useful mostly for non-adepts, eliminating a -5 penalty.

And with that I ran out of thoughts. So I decided to come here instead.

11-08-2013, 01:08 PM	#1
Anders Join Date: Jan 2005 Location: Gothenburg, Sweden	[RPM] True Names I'm trying to setting down rules for True Names in a setting that uses Ritual Path Magic. Thaumatology has some guidelines for what is proper on p.245 - the bonuses run from +0 to +4 depending on how true the name is. I'll use only the extremes - +0 for a public name and +4 for a True Name. My first idea was to apply a +4 bonus to the checks made to gather energy, but I think that's too powerful. Then we'd almost have to make knowing a True Name a perk-level Unusual Background to keep things under control. But I'm not too familiar with the system - is it too powerful? My second thought was to apply a +4 to the check to overcome resistance. That seems to be more balanced, and would also limit certain abuses by players (i.e., everyone says their True Names to the mage-healer and gets much better healing). My third thought, and this one I think I'll definitely go with, is to count as a Connection with the target. You don't need to have a blood sample or know where they're living, the True Name lets the spell find you anywhere. This is useful mostly for non-adepts, eliminating a -5 penalty. And with that I ran out of thoughts. So I decided to come here instead. __________________ “When you arise in the morning think of what a privilege it is to be alive, to think, to enjoy, to love ...” Marcus Aurelius Author of Winged Folk. The GURPS Discord. Drop by and say hi!