Psionics 4th ed Questions

[vicky_molokh]

Originally Posted by the_matrix_walker

The addition of a skill is (I think) a zero point feature that's part of the "PSI" Power source. It balances the disadvantage of needing a skill with the benefit of being able to improve it easily

Actually, not quite so. Skills are actually harder to improve [4/level] until you get an ability worth 80+ points (when Reliable starts costing too like skills or even more).

The only reason I see to wanting skills is the access to Power Techniques. (While not explicitly stated anywhere, I suspect Power Techniques are not meant to be used with attributes, even though there are mundane technique precedents such as the ST-based Neck Snap.)

[PK]

Originally Posted by Molokh

Actually, not quite so. Skills are actually harder to improve [4/level] until you get an ability worth 80+ points (when Reliable starts costing too like skills or even more).

However, you can also improve a skill freely (where not every campaign allows adding enhancements to your advantages freely) and you can improve the skill far past Attribute+10 if you wish, exceeding the bounds of what Reliable can do.

Anyway, in my mind, requiring a skill is a negative thing. It's one of the "bad things" about psi. However, the "good things" more than balance it out. You can't just look at the skill requirement in a vacuum -- it is one facet of How Psi Works.

The only reason I see to wanting skills is the access to Power Techniques. (While not explicitly stated anywhere, I suspect Power Techniques are not meant to be used with attributes, even though there are mundane technique precedents such as the ST-based Neck Snap.)

Absolutely true. Psi Techniques only work with Psionic Skills. If someone wants to port the concept over to another power, they need to keep those attached -- they were conceived of together and intended to stay together.