Power Scaling and Campaign Pacing

Flexible Scaling System

The SystemRPG is designed for easy scalability, allowing Storytellers to adjust advancement rates to match their campaign needs.

Power Level Calculation

• Power Level = Sum of 12 physical and mental stats
• Used for unlock thresholds (e.g., Trainee Path at PL 100)
• Provides a quick reference for character capability

Scaling Options for Storytellers

Fast Progression:

• Award bonus PP for exceptional roleplay
• Increase skill advancement rates
• Provide more opportunities for skill use
• Unlock Paths more liberally based on narrative

Standard Progression:

• Follow base rules: 1 PP per skill level
• Award Paths based on clear trigger conditions
• Natural progression through play

Slow Progression:

• Require more significant achievements for Path unlocks
• Limit opportunities for rapid skill advancement
• Focus on horizontal growth (more skills) vs vertical (higher levels)

Power Tiers Reference

Using the Power Scales as a guide you could have a big world with tiers of power like this:

• 1-50: Mortal tier (starting characters)
• 50-250: Heroic tier (experienced adventurers)
• 250-1000: Legendary tier (regional champions)
• 1000-5000: Epic tier (world-shaping heroes)
• 5000+: Mythic tier (reality-affecting beings)

Campaign Length Considerations

Short Campaign (1-10 sessions):

• Start at higher Power Level
• Award Paths more frequently
• Focus on specific power bracket

Medium Campaign (10-30 sessions):

• Standard progression rates
• Characters advance 1-2 tiers

Long Campaign (30+ sessions):

• Full progression experience
• Multiple tier transitions
• Explore false paths and optimization traps

Adjustment Tools

Storytellers can modify:

• PP awards (bonus PP for milestones)
• Skill advancement difficulty
• Path unlock requirements
• Starting Power Level
• Resource regeneration rates

The system's scalability ensures it can accommodate everything from one-shot adventures to multi-year campaigns exploring the full cosmology.