Pick Locks

Agility
Self Discipline
Creativity

Short Description

Unlock mechanical or electronic locks without using keys or standard access methods, relying on precision, speed, and the right tools.

Success Criteria

Roll 1d100 + Pick Locks skill vs. DR 100 + modifiers

Effects

You successfully unlock the target without triggering alarms or damaging the mechanism.

Modifiers and Restrictions

+10 to +60 DR for complex or advanced locks

-10 to -30 DR for simpler locks

+10 to +20 DR if under time pressure or hostile observation

–10 to –30 DR if working in calm, controlled environment

+20 DR if lock includes biometric or failsafe mechanisms

Action Examples

Opening an old mechanical door with rusty tumblers in a quiet hallway:

DR = 100 – 20 (calm) – 20 (simple lock) = 60 → Roll = 91 → SR = 31 → Lock opened

Unlocking a modern electronic panel on a sealed vault under guard patrol: 

DR = 100 + 30 (high-tech) + 20 (time pressure) = 150 →

Roll = 162 → SR = 12 → Entry granted

Long Description

Pick Locks allows characters to bypass physical security without resorting to brute force or access codes. The skill covers both traditional lockpicking and the manipulation of digital or hybrid locks through deft, hands-on techniques. Success depends not only on technical know-how but also on maintaining calm under pressure and leveraging the right equipment.

This skill can be used during stealth missions, infiltration scenarios, or to access restricted areas without drawing attention. Some modern locks may include digital countermeasures or biometric systems that make them more difficult to crack without assistance from related skills like System Bypass. However, Pick Locks focuses on swift, physical manipulation - ideal for doors, containers, or concealed compartments encountered in the field.

Sequencing

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Potential Counters

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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.