Attributes

Attributes comprise a character's baseline level of ability across six measurements in The Domains of Dread: Strength, Constitution, Dexterity, Intelligence, Wisdom and Presence. Their attribute score identifies to what level a character may be expected to perform at given conditions unforced and unaltered.

For every 2 points an attribute score is above 10, their modifier increases and vice versa. For example, a character that possesses 16 Wisdom will have a +3 modifier that influences any check, skill or roll which utilizes WIS in this way, just as their 8 in Presence means that they have -1 in those circumstances involving PRS. If an attribute is written as, for example: DEX, then that implies their positive or negative modifier.

A character may benefit from a soft bonus of up to +10 in any given attribute, after which it will not be added to their total. Hard bonuses such as adjustments from race, background, template or features otherwise specified are not affected by this cap.

Attributes in The Domains of Dread

Strength (STR)

Strength is the measure of the character's ability to exert physical power, their martial discipline and form. Many melee weapon types add a character's STR to their attack and damage matrixes, and influences maximum carrying capacity.

Constitution (CON)

Constitution is the measure of the character's hardiness and ability to withstand system shock. The CON is added to Fortitude saves and has an influence on how quickly or slowly they become fatigued and exhausted. When leveling up, a character's CON is added to determine the final amount of HP added to their total HP pool. Hit dice always roll their target maximum for purposes of adding HP in The Domains of Dread.

Dexterity (DEX)

Dexterity is the measure of the character's ability to move deftly and with agility. Some melee weapon types and most ranged weapon types add a character's DEX to their attack and damage matrixes, and positive DEX is added to their base Armor Class when not flatfooted or otherwise denied this bonus. It is added to a character's Reflex save.

Intelligence (INT)

Intelligence is the measure of the character's ability to recall and organize information. Though characters who lack this attribute are not required to be ignorant or illiterate, they will have narrower fields of expertise and knowledge. A character's positive INT increases their bank of fluent languages and speed of learning new ones diagetically.

Wisdom (WIS)

Wisdom is the measure of the character's ability to rely on instinct and practice presence of mind. Important skills related to spotting, like Perception, are tied to WIS. It is added to a character's Will save. Wisdom has an ablative effect on the Tension system.

Presence (PRS)

Presence is the measure of the character's ability to command attention, to project their vision, and overall force of personality. PRS is used for a plurality of social skills as well as remaining an important factor in how a character appreciates or depreciates their Notoriety. Presence, like Wisdom, has an ablative effect on the Tension system.