Games
Mage: The Ascension
Mage: The Ascension is a tabletop role-playing game set in a modern world where magic has returned. Players take on the roles of powerful beings known as Mages, who possess extraordinary abilities and wield immense influence over the world around them. The game explores themes of power, knowledge, and the nature of reality itself. Mages are divided into different traditions, each with its own unique philosophy and approach to magic. They must navigate a world filled with ancient conspiracies, supernatural threats, and the constant struggle for control over the very fabric of existence.
Mage: The Ascension offers a deep and complex world filled with intrigue, adventure, and philosophical exploration. It's a game that rewards creativity, imagination, and a willingness to delve into the mysteries of the universe.
The Main Idea
Reality is not a fixed concept but rather a collection of beliefs shaped and reinforced by the collective consciousness of humanity, known as the Sleepers. Mages are individuals who realize that reality is malleable and can be altered through the power of their will, typically expressed via rituals or other "mystical" or "scientific" methods. Their personal belief system, known as a Paradigm, influences their decision to either align with one of the nine mystical Traditions (a group of mages with diverse perspectives), join one of the five Technocracy conventions (an organization formed during the Enlightenment to promote science and truth), or operate independently as Disparates (unaffiliated mages), Marauders (whose paradigms distort their perception of reality), or Nephandi (mages bent on corrupting or destroying the world).
The primary theme of Mage revolves around the pursuit of Ascension, both for the individual and humanity as a whole, with the nature of Ascension intentionally left open to interpretation.
Cosmology
Mage's cosmology is rooted in the same foundation as Werewolf’s, centered on the concept of overlapping realms. The Penumbra is a spiritual reflection of the physical world, accessible by passing through the Gauntlet. Though it mirrors Earth, reality as experienced in the Penumbra is not visible. Beyond this, the Near Umbra is divided into four parts: the High, Middle, and Low Umbral realms, along with the Near Universe. The High Umbra, or Astral Plane, is a realm where abstract concepts take tangible form. The Middle Umbra, also known as the Living Umbra or Spirit World, is inhabited by spirits and holds spiritual significance, commonly used by werewolves. The Low Umbra, or Dark Umbra, is a place of decay and shadows, while the Near Universe resembles outer space, filled with locations reminiscent of science fiction.
The Deep Umbra stretches between planets and is hostile to life, housing beings entirely foreign to human understanding, with few noteworthy landmarks. Each planet ties into a specific aspect of reality and is connected to a Shard Realm, incomprehensible dimensions that embody a singular concept, such as Saturn’s Shard Realm of Time, which consists entirely of time. Surrounding the Horizon are the diluted and marginally survivable Shade Realms, formed from the Shard Realms of planets like the Sun, Mercury, Venus, and Mars, though they remain out of reach of organized cabals.
These Umbral Realms, together with the physical world, form the Tellurian, which encompasses all of reality. Long ago, the Tellurian was a unified universe, but the Gauntlet divided it into two—one side for the spirit world and the other for the physical realm.
Character Creation
Your tradition will define your fundamental approach to magic and your place within the world of Mage. Consider factors such as your preferred playstyle, philosophical beliefs, and the type of challenges you want to face. Each tradition offers unique strengths, weaknesses, and a distinct worldview. Attributes represent your character's inherent qualities, while abilities are specific skills and talents. Carefully allocate your points to create a well-rounded character who excels in areas that align with your chosen tradition and playstyle. Remember to balance your physical, mental, and social attributes to avoid weaknesses that could hinder your character's effectiveness.
Disciplines are the fundamental building blocks of your character's magical abilities. Choose disciplines that complement your tradition and align with your desired playstyle. Consider factors such as the types of effects you want to achieve, the range of your magical abilities, and the level of difficulty you want to face. Your character's backstory will shape their motivations, relationships, and overall personality. Consider factors such as their upbringing, their experiences with magic, and their goals within the world of Mage. A well-developed backstory will help you bring your character to life and make their actions more meaningful. Your character concept is a brief summary of your character's personality, goals, and overall approach to the world of Mage. This will help you stay focused and consistent as you develop your character throughout the game.
- Consider your character's flaws: Every character has weaknesses or flaws that can make them more interesting and relatable.
- Think about your character's relationships: Who are your character's allies, enemies, and mentors? These relationships can add depth and complexity to your character's story.
- Don't be afraid to experiment: Mage: The Ascension offers a wide range of possibilities. Don't be afraid to try new things and explore different playstyles.
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