Power Modifier (Cinematic)

[Someone404]

So I was thinking. For cinematic games (namely Action and Monster Hunters), it doesn't make all that much sense for heroes to have 15 ST when just walking around. When was the last time you saw Buffy beating up a random bully?

So I propose a Power Modifier (Cinematic). The power modifier would bar the abilities from mundane use. Problem is, don't know how much it would be worth.

[Sunrunners_Fire]

Originally Posted by Someone404

So I was thinking. For cinematic games (namely Action and Monster Hunters), it doesn't make all that much sense for heroes to have 15 ST when just walking around. When was the last time you saw Buffy beating up a random bully?

So I propose a Power Modifier (Cinematic). The power modifier would bar the abilities from mundane use. Problem is, don't know how much it would be worth.

GURPS Powers speaks about evaluating the value of custom Power Modifiers. What limitations do you want the PM to include? 'cause, "You can't buy this if you have Mundane Background" is kinda already built into the Mundane Background disadvantage and so wouldn't be a valid limitation.

[Someone404]

Originally Posted by Sunrunners_Fire

GURPS Powers speaks about evaluating the value of custom Power Modifiers. What limitations do you want the PM to include? 'cause, "You can't buy this if you have Mundane Background" is kinda already built into the Mundane Background disadvantage and so wouldn't be a valid limitation.

I was thinking more along the lines of "Accessibility: Not for mundane things"

[Dinadon]

Originally Posted by Someone404

I was thinking more along the lines of "Accessibility: Not for mundane things"

Mundane and cinematic aren't opposites. A gritty magic or psionics campaign can easily have abilities that only work on empowered things without any form of cinematic goings-on in the setting.

Overall, cinematic is a play style not a feature of the world so having it as a power modifier is hard to justify. Also, mundane things is very hard to qualify. If I can buy night vision goggles does that mean I can't have night vision as a power since there is a mundane equivalent? More precise power definitions can lead to better worldbuilding.

For instance, a Slayer power may have ST(Only vs Evil) as an ability, but Only vs Evil may not be part of the power modifier. This would allow a Slayer to have Regeneration that can also deal with mundane wounds, which is thematic.

[Someone404]

Originally Posted by Dinadon

Mundane and cinematic aren't opposites. A gritty magic or psionics campaign can easily have abilities that only work on empowered things without any form of cinematic goings-on in the setting.

Overall, cinematic is a play style not a feature of the world so having it as a power modifier is hard to justify. Also, mundane things is very hard to qualify. If I can buy night vision goggles does that mean I can't have night vision as a power since there is a mundane equivalent? More precise power definitions can lead to better worldbuilding.

For instance, a Slayer power may have ST(Only vs Evil) as an ability, but Only vs Evil may not be part of the power modifier. This would allow a Slayer to have Regeneration that can also deal with mundane wounds, which is thematic.

You make a good point. I was thinking along the lines of "These heroes are only this strong when dealing with The Enemy. Otherwise, they're just normal people". Your IQ of 14 wouldn't let you ace a test, nor would your Move of 7 let you win the track meet.

[lvalero]

I probably would use "Emergencies only". So, for example, one PC could have additional levels of ST with "emergencies only" so he could only use his additional strength only while in a real danger "life or death" scene.

[Someone404]

Originally Posted by lvalero

I probably would use "Emergencies only". So, for example, one PC could have additional levels of ST with "emergencies only" so he could only use his additional strength only while in a real danger "life or death" scene.

That makes a good chunk of sense to me, though I think full power in emergencies only would be better.

[Tinman]

Originally Posted by Someone404

So I was thinking. For cinematic games (namely Action and Monster Hunters), it doesn't make all that much sense for heroes to have 15 ST when just walking around. When was the last time you saw Buffy beating up a random bully?

So I propose a Power Modifier (Cinematic). The power modifier would bar the abilities from mundane use. Problem is, don't know how much it would be worth.

I think Buffy specifically would be a bad example. I'm sure I've seen her use her superhuman ST in mundane situations, just usually not to hurt people. Faith for sure has.

I think Buffy's not using her powers is a code of honor not a limitation on the power.

[awesomenessofme1]

Originally Posted by Tinman

I think Buffy specifically would be a bad example. I'm sure I've seen her use her superhuman ST in mundane situations, just usually not to hurt people. Faith for sure has.

I think Buffy's not using her powers is a code of honor not a limitation on the power.

I haven't watched the show in years, but I definitely remember a scene of her using her super-strength while just working as a construction worker. So it's definitely something applicable in all situations.

[dcarson]

There is always something like the Roger Rabbit, Only if it's funny limitation.