User summary:
Character creation begins with a concept and then the selection of Traits. Instead of using pre-determined Traits, players select which Traits complement their character concept. Sample Traits (which function somewhat like Attributes) include: Agile, Witty, Lithe, and Astute. Traits need not be positive. Players then allocate ten build points to purchase Background, each selection yielding certain benefits. Backgrounds are divided by type, including: Social, Physical, or Skills. One Skill is Talent which comes in a variety of abilities. Perhaps the most powerful Background/Skill/Talent is Channeling which also is complex. Characters may also have Nationality and Childhood Skills. All characters then begin further development at age 14, and the player plots out a Career Path (this may not be completed, but will at least commence). The last step in character creation is outfitting.
Action resolution is divided into different types: Normal Test, Stress Test, or Opposed Test. In all of these, the player rolls 1D20 and one or more D6. The D6 roll "explodes" on a 6. The summed D6 total either adds to, or subtracts from, the D20 roll for a final result which is compared to an action table. Whether the D6 is a bonus or penalty is determined by the type of test and situational modifiers.