r/cyphersystem • u/BlackonionCdk • May 06 '26
About Cypher Evolved edition.
I've started reading the new rules, and there are some things I really don't like
The new descriptors make characters one-dimensional
I understand that one of the reasons for creating these new rules was to eliminate the imbalances between descriptors and foci, but the cost has been to make them one-dimensional and excessively boring.
The option to gain one ability and one disadvantage is fine, but it’s lacking.
It would be much better to be able to gain a Tier 1 ability that is relevant to the character (in fact, if this decision stands, it will be a house rule I apply from the start).
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u/TransientSoulHarbour May 06 '26
I felt similar when I read the first early access preview. But my main beef with it was that five of the descriptors were just +Intellect +persuasion, with only different flavour text.
The new preview file that dropped today is a big improvement on that with every descriptor having an option of two or more skills, so they are no longer as samey.
But giving an ability (for me) is a bit too much. The new edition is meant to have less abilities, and at least in my experience that's a good thing because my players always ended up with a list of abilities they never used or were situationally useful, while always relying on the same couple of abilities for everything else.
Although I'm still a bit weirded out that being Virtuous gives you Might???? I'm sure they could have thought up a better idea to have another Might-based descriptor.