Armor
In Enigma, armor is a protective layer and an essential defense against combat hazards. It grants Armor Points (AP), which function as additional life points that absorb damage before it impacts a character's main health. Armor can also influence a character's Navigation checks. This system provides a clear and strategic approach to defense, enabling players to make informed decisions about their durability and ability to navigate their environment.
Armor Points: Each tier of armor provides Armor Points (AP), which absorb damage before impacting the wearer's overall health. When a character wearing armor takes damage during combat, their Armor Points are reduced first. Once the armor's AP reaches zero, the character begins to take damage directly to their Life Points. Armor Points are restored only after the character has fully rested.
Types of Armor: There are five types of armor in Enigma: Unarmored, Ballistic Weave, Flak Armor, Plated Armor, and Exoskeleton. Each type offers different amounts of Armor Points (AP), affects Navigate checks, and requires a specific minimum Endure die to equip. Players are encouraged to customize their characters’ appearance! For instance, if a player has a d12 Endure die and wants to use tier 4 armor while dressed only in a tank top, they can flavor it as an arcanotech shield or an exaltium skin implant instead of conventional physical armor. The mechanics will remain the same.
Unarmored: Characters without armor have no additional protection and rely solely on their agility and skill to avoid damage.
Minimum Endure Die: d4
Bonus: + 2 to Navigate checks
Ballistic Weave: Woven with arcane-infused fibers, Ballistic Weave provides light but adequate protection against basic attacks. It is ideal for characters who prioritize mobility with a modest layer of defense.
Minimum Endure Die: d6
Bonus: 1 Armor Point
Flak Armor: Reinforced with protective sigils and layered materials, Flak Armor is designed for front-line combatants. It absorbs greater impact while allowing for reasonable movement, suited to characters expecting close-quarters skirmishes.
Minimum Endure Die: d8
Bonus: -1 to Navigate checks; +2 Armor Points
Plated Armor: Plated Armor merges heavy plating with advanced arcane technology, offering exceptional defense. This armor is an ideal choice for those seeking durability while accepting a trade-off with reduced agility for heightened protection.
Minimum Endure Die: d10
Bonus: -2 to Navigate checks; +3 Armor Points
Exoskeleton: A full-bodied suit powered by arcane energy, the Exoskeleton turns the wearer into a walking fortress. Offering unparalleled protection, it allows its users to withstand immense punishment at the cost of reduced flexibility. Only those with the highest endurance can effectively wear this armor.
Required Endure Die: d12
Bonus: -3 to Navigate checks; +4 Armor Points