Descriptors. This term was used to basically used in a similar manner as ability gimmicks (GD3E) or ability flairs (Iron Gauntlets) in Story Engine 2E. Descriptors are now taking a larger role. Rather than being confined to just abilities, it is a general term applied to any descriptive element. When used with abilities, descriptors are called either flairs (+) or quirks (-). Descriptors can also take the form of convictions (beliefs, drives, fears, and temptations), threads (relationships), and gimmicks. They can be easily shared with GD3E - in fact, if you look on page 59 of the genreDiversion 3E Manual, you'll notice that you are already prepared for ability and gimmick descriptors.
Descriptors in 3E are much more reusable than those in 2E. For one, you can have multiple bonuses of the same descriptor (the defined value), meaning that they can be burned more often to provide a bonus. For another difference, convictions can cause already burned ability descriptors to be unburned, allowing you to re-use them. Convictions and thread descriptors can also be burned. The former means that the conviction is strengthened during a specific situation. The latter means that the character calls in all his favors for the relationship to act.
So, while Story Engine 3E works differently than 2E, it maintains the whole adjective-based core and even ups it a few notches. |
