Core loop
- Scene framing: GM sets stakes and asks what you do.
- Checks: roll d20 + stat vs target number; advantage/disadvantage = roll 2, keep high/low.
- Consequences: success, success with a cost, or setback that escalates fiction.
How to Play Origin Story (RPG quickstart)
Street-level superhero RPG: make grounded heroes, solve problems with powers, wit, and gear. This is not the miniatures wargame.
Create a character
Pick powers
Roll d20 checks
Stats & health
- Stats: Reflex, Strength, Smarts, Social, Durability.
- Health: 10 + Durability x Level. Drop to 0 = downed; take conditions on big hits.
- Power Points: equal to Level; each power level costs PP.
Powers
- Buy powers by level using PP; higher levels build on lower ones.
- Action types: Standard, Move, or Reaction. Most rolls are d20 + relevant stat.
- Creative use matters: narrate how the power shifts the scene.
Advancement
- Level up when the GM says; gain +1 Power Point and stat budget per your table’s rules.
- Add new power levels or pick up new utility tools and gear.
Table agreements
- Pick tone: grounded street action, pulp, or comic-book big.
- Safety tools: use lines/veils and pauses.
- Spotlight: rotate focus, share the mic, and reward creative approaches.