Aspects represent the interplay between two attributes. While traditional RPG systems often rely on single attributes or skills, this system uses Aspects to reflect how a character’s capabilities arise from combinations of physical and mental traits.

These Aspects are used for most action checks, defenses, and interactions in the game — they are at the core of the system’s resolution mechanic.

Each Aspect is the sum of two attribute modifiers. For example:

• Agility = STR + DEX
• Willpower = CHA + WIS
• Discipline = CON + INT

Example: if your STR is +1 and your DEX is +2, your Agility Aspect value is +3.

You can view a full table of the standard Aspects and their attribute combinations here: Aspect Table

When you attempt an action, the GM will call for an Aspect that makes sense for the situation. For example:

• Trying to intimidate someone might use Presence (STR + CHA)
• Balancing on a narrow beam might use Reflex (DEX + WIS)
• Concentrating on a spell might use Willpower (CHA + WIS)

Each Aspect has its own value, which you use to determine how many dice to roll when performing actions based on that Aspect (see 🎲 Taking Actions with the D4 Dice Pool for more).

If you're using a system that doesn't rely on dice pools — such as a D20-style system or the Daggerheart-style Duality Dice — you should calculate Aspect modifiers instead of values.

In those systems, each Aspect is calculated as follows:

• Add the two relevant attribute modifiers
• Divide by 2
• Round down

This gives you a single modifier number (e.g., +1 or +2) that you can use just like any other D20-style bonus.

For example:

• CON + INT = +3 +1 = 4 → 4 ÷ 2 = +2 modifier

This makes Aspects function similarly to D&D skills or saves, making it easier to adapt the system to other mechanics.

Aspects do several things at once:

• Replace skills and saving throws with a unified, elegant system
• Encourage characters with depth, not just single-stat dominance
• Support creativity, letting players justify how they use different combinations of traits

This helps keep character creation simple, encourages interesting action choices, and reduces the need for long skill lists.