Spell Sniping

Reasoning
Agility
Memory

Short Description

Cast spells with deadly accuracy from a distance, making them almost impossible to dodge or counter once they hit their mark.

Success Criteria

Opposite roll against any counters to avoid being hit by your spell.

Effects

If successful, you negate any defensive reactions direclty to your spell.

Modifiers and Restrictions

+20 to DR if you have used this skill before in this battle.

Action Examples

You cast Incenerate Orb with spell sniping at a target who reacts by using the skill Evade Spell Attacks. You and the target must then roll an opposite roll. If you win, then their defensive boost is nulified.

Long Description

Spell Sniping elevates ranged spellcasting to an art form. By synchronizing magical timing with pinpoint aiming, a caster can unleash spells that hit with unstoppable force—often before the enemy realizes they’re under attack. Especially useful for eliminating high-priority targets or triggering effects from cover, Spell Sniping rewards patience, line-of-sight control, and tactical sequencing. Its use is limited, however, as targets often become aware of the caster’s presence after the first strike, so it should be used tactically for spells that can tip the battle.

Sequencing

Inherently sequenced with the spell cast, but you might want to further sequence with skills that can enhance the damage or effect of the spell.

Potential Counters

Counterspell (still viable against the spell)

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.