Virtual Reality Specialist

Creativity

Empathy

Presence

Short Description

You excell in setting up AR and VR software. You create specialised testing environments and models to enhance effects of both tech modules and spells relying on artificial realism.

Success Criteria

Roll d100 + skill bonus vs. DR 100

Effects

You repair a damaged or broken AR tech module.

By testing and optimizing 1 AR tech module or 1 Illusion spell you gain a bonus to their next use.

You limit the fumble range to 1-3 (instead of 1-5) for the VR upload skill.

Modifiers and Restrictions

+20 DR when used on illusion spells

+10 DR for repairs made with improvised tools

-10 DR if used while sparring with a creative partner (Cr 85+)

Action Examples

You repair your Reality Interface tech module that was damaged in a fight. DR 100

By 3D modelling and testing a new illusion idea you optimize your chances of success when next casting that spell. DR 120 (DR 100 + 20 for use on spell), gain +20 bonus when you cast the spell next.

Long Description

A specialist in this field can design immersive AR and VR simulations tailored for training, experimentation, or deception. They create hyper-realistic testing environments that allow users to practice complex spells, refine tech module interactions, or simulate high-stakes scenarios with astonishing fidelity. These environments can enhance the effects of spells and tech modules that rely on artificial realism, making them more potent, precise, or convincing. For example, a specialist might develop a VR combat simulator that adapts to a spellcaster’s abilities, or an AR overlay that amplifies the visual impact of illusions, making them nearly indistinguishable from reality.
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Beyond creation, these specialists excel in troubleshooting and refining AR/VR systems, ensuring seamless integration with both digital and magical elements. Their work is invaluable in fields such as military training, magical research, and entertainment, where the boundary between the real and the artificial can mean the difference between success and failure. Whether used to deceive enemies, train allies, or push the boundaries of what is possible, the Artificial Reality Specialist skill transforms abstract concepts into tangible, interactive experiences.

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Sequencing

Not optimized for sequencing.

Potential Counters

Not normally countered.

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.