Rogue Archetype

If this is the sort of character framework you are looking for, you can find all the linked material you need. Otherwise, if you are still undecided or need help with a character concept, see the Getting Started guide. Archetypes are very useful to envision a 'typical' character of a particular type; especially for GM's to consult instead of having to create each NPC individually. Archetypes define the nature of a character, their inherent level of drive and commitment to the path their label describes. Their definition reflects typical starting character values; values for PC's do not have to correlate exactly. Archetypes grant a set of enhancements and set the lifetime direction for your character. Enhanced rules make use of these, granting further gains and abilities.

Overview

The character focuses upon subtle interaction and trickery; knowledgeable in stealth, intelligence and infiltration. The rogue typically uses smaller weapons, concealed or specialized weapons and a greater variety of items for different situations; they rely more on surprise and stealthy approaches to combat instead of direct ones. They wear lighter armor to stay more mobile, so they can use their abilities without hindrance. The rogue has many areas and environments they can focus on, follow and generally have good physical skills as a infiltrator, or focus on security, social, transportation and more novel skills for gaining intelligence. Earned CP typically goes to stalking, gadgetry, unarmed, and ranged type skills as well as a defensive fend. Their strength is not in powerful combat skills, but trouble-shooting and problem solving which gets around situations causing damage. They have perhaps the widest range of secondary focuses, each specialized in facing a specific set of problems and issues.

Requirements

The requirements follow all the usual requirements for archetype kits.

• The best practice guidelines must be adhered to for kits to be used.
• Kinetic aptitude (primary) must be at least three (3).
• Only a single kit can be declared. It must be declared when the character is created.
• Any attempt to increase non-primary aptitudes costs double.

Benefits

• Primary aptitude is Kinetic.
• Primary attribute is Muscle or Coordination [Chosen].
  It is easier to increase the primary attribute; one less CP per level.
• Primary skill group choices are: athletics/stalking/gadgetry/unarmed/ranged/deception/social
  • One skill within the primary skill group [primary skill] is granted for free (1 CP value)
  • The primary skill can have a base proficiency level of 3, instead of the limit of 2 by best practice.
  • Any sort of learning checks for skills within the primary skill group gain a +1.
• Character is granted 5 extra points of chi.
• The rogue character starts play with a single action point.
• If the rogue character takes the Danger Sense trait, it costs one less CP.
• Rogue characters rely heavily on their luck and instincts. As such, they can exchange 1 CP for 3 action points. Normally the ratio is 1:2, except for starting characters. Those taking the rogue kit get this increased exchange rate forever.
• Rogue gain a free skill at level 1 depending on their background. All rogue with an urban upbringing gain Stretwise. Non urban or city type backgrounds grant the rogue a level in survival appropriate to the environment they grew up in.
• Access to the Rogue Path

A Rogue Character Example

(Template: Basic Rogue [Fantasy])

The rogue is a rakish scrapper. They are capable with weapons, but prefer more subtle solutions. They are social and especially adept at manipulating others.

Species Reference: Human (Size: 10)

(Remaining CP = 4)

Aptitudes

Faith = 0 / Kinetic = 4 / Magic = 0 / Psychic = 0

Attributes

Attribute	Value	Adj.
Coordination	6	+1 CS
Reactions	6	+1 CS
Health	4
Vitality	4
Muscle	5
Stamina	5
Reason	3
Sanity	3
Charisma	4
Willpower	4
Intuition	3
Perception	3

Skills

Core: Language (4; primary), Mobility [Type] (native at +X)
Other: Camouflage (2), Evade (3), Fend (2), Gaming (1), Grapple (1), Melee (2), Persuasion (2), Propel (1), Stealth (2), Streetwise (2)

Traits

Kinetic Faculty

Combat

Base Resilience

40 [not incl. toughness or other modifiers]

Kinetic Power

BENDING: The rogue can draw on their inner energy to bend the attention of others away using the chi power of "bending".

Tools of the Trade

Rogues will have typical items associated with their individual skills. Commonly, rogues use items and abilities to augment information or bypass problems. This can include lock picks, scanners, wiring kits, clothes and utility items to aid in stealth (noise dampening effects) and camouflage (dark suits for darkness and survival suits for outdoors), etc.

Armor: The rogue prefers light armor simply for freedom of movement, but when called for has no issue with wearing or engaging greater protections. Unlike the genrealist, the rogue still deals in conflict more often than not. Protecting themselves is a very high priority - though if it can be done with more deceptive elements the better - misplaced expectations and underestimation are some of the rogue's best elements.

Weapons: Weapons are simply a matter of practicality. Many rogues enjoy smaller weapons, the easier to conceal and surprise with. However, when required there is no weapons available to the rogue that they will not consider. Sometimes the most direct path is still the best - and best be suited to deal with strong resistance and conflict.

Misdirection: Rogues use disguises, forgeries, and all manner of items, actions, and tactics that emply misdirection over direct confrontation.

Institutional Brotherhoods, Sponsor, or Agency Setup

Improvised and Cheap

A lot of cheap and easier to aquire items can be used by the rogue as well, using their connections and enterprising nature. Instead of a dark suit, a heavy dark robe that just drapes over everything can be had (same bonus, but -1 Stealth). There are many items which can be used to mislead and fool - props, which can be used to enahnce the look and set expectations.

Acquiring Items

Part and parcel to a rogue's survival is typically knowing how and where to acquire items. Thorough street and local knowledge is typical of such characters. Contacts of all sorts are cultivated for knowledge and for access to items. A rogue usually spends much of their time canvasing locales, getting a feel for the locales, learning customs and manners to fit in and gain trust.

Equipment Trait

The equipment trait, in addition to the formal mundane items it grants, represents additional starting items unique to the rogue archetype. Clothing or covering gear granting bonuses (+1 CS) to stealth and camouflage, circuit boards, tools, etc.

Creating Items

Rogues themselves usually do not create their own items. Why chance poor workmanship when others can build it perfectly? In some instances, especially experienced rogues develop capabilities to create their own tools, clothes, and even materials to aid in their activities.

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