Frequently Asked Questions
Species and Factions
Each species belongs to a faction. When you choose a species, you gain that species' listed faction perks. Faction represents the culture, training, environment, and social identity most common to that species. Your Game Master may allow a character to belong to a different faction if it strongly fits the character’s story, but faction changes are optional exceptions, not the default character creation rule.
Can my species belong to a different faction?
By default, no. Each species belongs to the faction listed in its species entry, and you gain that faction’s perks during character creation.
Faction represents the culture, training, environment, and social identity most common to that species. With Game Master approval, a character may belong to a different faction if the change strongly fits the campaign and the character’s backstory. This should be treated as a story-driven exception, not a normal optimization choice.
For more information on factions visit.
https://www.familiararcanattrpg.com/lore/faction/factions
Is Adventure Mode available by default?
No Adventure Mode is a specific game type that provides a unique experience for players. If your Game Master would like to allow you to explore various options or even enhance your gameplay by adding Adventure Mode on top of your current species features, they are fully permitted to do so.
This flexibility ensures that it will not disrupt the overall balance of the game, allowing for a richer and more engaging experience without compromising the integrity of the gameplay. Embracing Adventure Mode can introduce new elements and possibilities, making your journey even more exciting and immersive.
Why don't species give stat bonuses!
We hear you loud and clear! By removing stat bonuses associated with different species, we empower you to select the species that truly resonates with your character concept and narrative. This means you can focus on crafting a character that embodies your creative vision, rather than being constrained by preset bonuses. Fear not about the potential impacts on gameplay! Factions will provide you with a +2 stat bonus, ensuring that your character remains competitive and capable. For quick references the factions bonuses are below.
+2 Strength to Varkesh
+2 Dexterity to Morveth
+2 Constitution to Brinari
+2 Intelligence to Nythera
+2 Wisdom to Caewyn
+2 Charisma to Silcan
Do I get all of my species skill options?
No. Each species lists several skill options, but you choose two of them during character creation. These skills represent common talents, instincts, or cultural training associated with that species.
What is a Will, Reflex, or Cognitive Save?
If you're coming from Dungeons and Dragons 5e, you're probably used to Strength, Dexterity, Constitution, Wisdom, Intelligence, Charisma saving throws. We simplified it to 3 saving throws:
- Cognitive
is the higher of your Wisdom and Intelligence saving throw modifier.
- Reflex is the higher of your Strength or Dexterity saving throw modifier.
- Will
is the higher of your Constitution and Charisma saving throw modifier.
Essentially, if your Game Master is using a DnD 5e statblock, you can now use Wisdom for Intelligence saves. Be aware that the GM also uses this and monsters have less saving throw weaknesses. Most of this information is covered in the Glossary and Player's handbook section of the site in DM Stuff.
What is Twilight Darkvision?
