Philosophy

Reasoning

Memory

Self Discipline

Short Description

The study of ethical systems, metaphysics, and logic, allowing a character to debate moral dilemmas, question assumptions, and provide counsel on difficult decisions.

Success Criteria

Effects

Modifiers and Restrictions

Action Examples

Situation: Two allied groups demand opposite outcomes, and any decision will alienate one of them. Action: Use Philosophy to analyze the ethical implications and propose a reasoned compromise. Roll vs DR 100+ depending on the complexity of the situation: Success allows you to defuse tension, gain bonus Diplomacy or similar.

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Situation: A locked chamber requires solving a philosophical riddle or value-based puzzle. Action: Use Philosophy to reason through abstract dilemmas or moral traps. Roll vs DR 100+ depending on the complexity: Success opens the way forward, prevents penalties etc. ‍

Long Description

Philosophy is the study of ethical systems, metaphysics, and logical reasoning. It allows a character to reflect on moral dilemmas, question assumptions, and offer guidance in difficult or controversial situations. This skill can prove valuable in high-stakes negotiations, when deciding between competing ideologies, or when navigating culturally sensitive situations where ethics or taboos come into play.

Philosophy may also be used in encounters with factions, ancient systems, or alien civilizations where understanding and responding to value systems is critical. It can support skills like Diplomacy, Religion, Law, or Crisis Negotiation when navigating decisions rooted in belief, tradition, or moral conflict.

Sequencing

Potential Counters

How to use this page

All the information above is intended as a guide to help you navigate the many situations that can arise during your game. Since it's both impossible—and frankly uninspiring—to plan for every possible outcome, players are encouraged to think creatively when using their skills. Game Masters, in turn, are encouraged to embrace and support that creativity.

Whenever possible, aim to resolve situations through narrative choices, logical thinking and role playing. If that’s not feasible, agree on a Difficulty Rating (DR) using the provided Success Criteria and Modifiers. These are not rigid rules, but suggestions - starting points to help you find the right level of challenge. The player describes their intended action, and the Game Master proposes a DR. This should be open to brief discussion at the table, ideally resulting in consensus. If not, the Game Master has the final say.

It’s important to emphasize that all suggested effects, modifiers, and action examples are exactly that: suggestions. If you’re unsure how to resolve something, they offer a reliable fallback—but wherever possible, we encourage you to push boundaries. That’s where some of the most memorable and exciting moments in play are born.

Sequencing and Potential Counters are far from exhaustive. With hundreds of skills, spells, and tech modules in the game, the possibilities are too vast to list. You’re encouraged to explore combinations that make sense in your story and setting and in the situations that arise in your game. Sequencing and countering are core to Cosmic Odyssey - they’re where strategic depth meets dramatic flair, and where legendary moments often take shape. Even if no sequencing and counters are mentioned, some certainly exists and can be smartly utilized.

So explore boldly, improvise wisely, and enjoy the game as it unfolds around your choices.