An Open Letter about Mechanics

Soooo I'm going to toss in my two cents, see if I can get a dollar back. XD

Let's start with STATS!

• Spirit and Strength are effectively the same thing in the world of Bleach. Unless you are a variant who uses purely physical strength, it is the spirit that reinforces both spiritual and physical power. Thus the two should be combined into "Power" to encompass both upper limit damage possibilities.
• Precision totally needs to return. Otherwise there's nothing that checks against speed. "I outrun your arrows" can be a problem if "My character has pinpoint accuracy" and there is no check to say otherwise.
• Substats can become a thing with the use of Focuses to simulate the difference between "Spirit and Strength"
  • Kenpachi builds, or those who prefer raw physical power over "Kido" or other magical, special or "effect" type abilities, would have a slight boost at a greater loss. This is a "Focus."
• Techniques (mentioned in the following spoiler) can play more on specific substats than an overarching stat. 
• Stamina should return to support the limited use of Techniques.
• An example of a Stat and Substat system is below, followed by an example using a "Tank" style focus.

Reiatsu

Power

Physical: This describes the user's raw physical striking power, such as with fist or Zanpakuto prior to release.

Special: This describes the user's spiritual powers, such as Reishi manipulation, Kido or Zanpakuto effects (if not physical based)

Speed

Footspeed: Simply, how fast one moves without the use of Hoho.

Attack Speed: The quickness of individual and repeated strikes.

Evasion: The snap response time.

Precision

Close Quarters: Hand to hand accuracy, such as for pressure points.

<20m (up to 60 ft) Mid Range: Leading projectiles to hit moving targets and precise aim on specific body parts.

>20m (over 60 ft) Long Range: Leading projectiles to hit moving targets and precise aim on specific body parts.

Defense:

Static: The normal damage negation of damage.

Blocking: The damage negation when blocking.

Spirit:

Stamina Pool: Max amount of stamina

Stamina Regen: The speed at which stamina returns through Stamina Techniques

Health Regen: The rate at which the user heals. Cannot drop below half of the Spirit stat.

Reiatsu: 200

Power: 80¹

Physical: 80+(40/2)=100

Special 80-40=40

Speed: 50²

Footspeed 50-20=30

Attack Speed 50+(70/3)=73

Evasion 50-50=0

Precision: 20

Close Quarters 20+(40/3)=33

Mid Range 20-20=0

Long Range 20-20=0

Defense: 80³

Static: 80

Blocking: 80

Spirit: 20³

Stamina Pool: 20

Stamina Regen: 20

Health Regen: 20

Time for an explination.

1: Power's core stat is at 80, but the character had a much greater preferance of Physical to Special. Physical becomes the focus while Special was reduced by half. Half of 80 is 40, but only half of the loss is transformed to gain.

2: Divide by the number of substats to maintain balance of the boost.

3: These stats do not see a change, thus the substats can be used each at their full potential.

Pros and Cons time!

Pro:

• Even with Techniques being the only way to use a Focus, it allows a spike in ability that may temporarily even, or even surpass a foe. This can be useful in surprise attacks, while remaining a limited resource.
• Balance is maintained.
  • Power
    • Overpowers Defense
    • Overwhelmed by Speed
    • Disabled by Precision
  • Speed
    • Outruns Power
    • Is predicted by Precision
    • Cannot pierce Defenses
  • Precision
    • Predicts Speed
    • Nulled by Defense
    • Overwhelmed by Power
  • Defense
    • Resists Precision
    • Eroded by Power
    • Cannot be used Offensively
  • Spirit
    • Limited Resource
    • Technique based
• Substats allow further character customization without dividing Reiatsu points even further or costing even more GM.
• Min/Maxing is reduced greatly without completely negating archetypal builds.

Cons:

• Complexity is probably the biggest issue. This form of check and balance and division within divisions might feel a bit too "overcomplicated" and at times it can be for a freeform RP.
• Great cost, limited gain in Substats can be an issue, particularly when giving up something like Evasion for Attack Speed, being Evasion is permanently reduced but the Attack Speed boost may only be used as a Technique.
• Integration might also be an issue with a lot of players.

Techniques!

Sooo Techniques were a big thing in the Bleach Universe, and they could be a big thing in the Bleach Gotei universe with the right incentive. My idea? Different types of Techniques! Each with their own limitations and boundaries!

Style Technique

These techniques are often aesthetic. They are branches off of a single skill and are often unique to one character. These skills are non-leveling abilities which describe a single move that in the heat of battle may be misconstrued. These are basically a fully detailed statement that this move is not a total asspull. Style Techniques still have to be accepted before use, to make sure they do not qualify for another type of technique. If approved, Style Techniques do not upgrade, nor would they cost GM since nothing but fluff is gained. Style Techniques also do not require stamina to use, being no extra is needed. In essense Style is style is style.

Special Technique

These techniques are often branched off of racial specials such as the release of Shinigami and Arrancar. These are the "active" abilities that don't qualify for a skill, such as Kurosaki's "Getsuga Tensho." Special Techniques do not include STATIC effects, such as the doubling weight of "Wabisuke's" strikes. Special Techniques level according to the parent skill and do not have an individual cost.

Mastery Technique

Techniques with one parent skill, such as Utsusemi , are attainable only at a high parent skill level. The Mastery Techniques are requested and purchased via GM, but start at the level of mastery that is required of the Parent SKill. For example, Utsusemi may be a Master level ability, so it would be purchased at Master Level. Senka may be an Adept level, so it would be purchased at that level. Mastery Techniques often add effects to a given skill that push the upper boundaries. As such, each level of a Mastery Technique must be bought individually. (Perhaps at a reduced cost to Skill.)

Hybrid Technique

Almost a skill in themselves, Hybrid Techniques are the combinations of two parent skills. Shunko, the combination of Kido and Hakudo, is a prime example of a Hybrid Technique. These techniques begin at the lowest level and must be bought with GM similar to a skill. The peak level, however, is capped at the lowest level of the parent skills.

Branch Technique

The prime use for BRanch Technique is when a skill is just so broad, that it can't be encompassed by one skill. For example: Kido is divided into four, of which you may pick two for a Shinigami app. Branch Techniques may more accurately be called "Subskills" which I'll get to in a moment.

Seeing as we're getting into details like this, then there would be no reason not to have a page of acceptable techniques that a user can purchase without having to go through a strenuous check and balance of mechanics, such as those already in the Manga. 

Let's not forget! Focuses are applied to any technique they are relevant to. Of course, blocking ability is NOT added to Utsusemi, since the afterimages are not actually capable of blocking. The only possible exception is Style Technique.

Skills!

I agree that the progression of skills is strange and undefined. At best, things can remain the same with the addition of more information per skill level to better define said skill. This is particularly necessary in skills such as Hoho, where distance and number of uses is measured in the skill range. I'mma go through the various skills that I think are currently broken and why.

Hoho for starters.

AS I've mentioned, Hoho is one of those skills that can branch out into various Techniques. Shunpo, the Shinigami technique, is described as just that. Currently, Various techniques could operate in various ways and be used in place of a speed check when the technique is activated. I'll give a few examples.

• Sonido: Because the ability seems more natural for Hollows than Shunpo and Hirenkyaku are to their respective races, the ability could be determined by Power, a raw stat that, similar to Speed, would come natural. The power of Sonido could be found by (Power * Level) Being this move appears to have connections with mock speeds, the various levels could have descriptions that resemble the various levels of sonic speeds. Ofcourse, this is in terms of "Spirit" speeds, so normal km/h would NOT apply. This is simply a better way to describe the speeds at each level.
  • Beginner: Subsonic speeds
  • Basic: Transonic
  • Intermediate: Supersonic
  • Advanced: Hypersonic
  • Master: Ultrasonic
  • Grandmaster: Near Teleportation (Stark)

• Shunpo: Because the Shinigami ability revolves around speed, it could be found by multiplying the Speed stat to the technique's level. 
• Hirenkyaku: The ability is focused on creating platforms through heavy focus. The ability used by Quincy requires the creation of a flow of Reishi, then accurately riding it to the desired location. Due to the heavy precision needed, the effectiveness of Hirenkyaku could revolve around Precision multiplied by the level of the technique. A subtechnique at medium-higher levels would be the ability to create Reishi platforms.

Branching Techniques, as mentioned in the previous section, are more like Subskills that can be branched off into further Techniques, such as those employed by Kuchiki

Releases

These are broken simply because of the lack of a stamina system. Though these are "skills" they should have a stamina cost to maintain and use that decreases with mastery (thus symbolizing the ease by which it is used.) Initiation could give SOME stamina, before it begins to burn it away. That, accompanied with Special Techniques, would help equate the power of Release forms in a general battle. Why the "Add Stamina?" Because rarely ever did a character start out at max form. Plus, in most cases, there is an influx of energy coming from somewhere. The stamina boost may not be large, and it may not change via mastery (though with higher Spirit stat it may be increased) but it would make sense to use it when you need that boost.

Of course, I'm not touching on Transcendent power.

Checks and Balances:

Blocking should be a substat of Defense instead of Power, being that Power becomes an umbrella term that gives reason to Min/Maxing in favor of Power for a tank character and reduces the need for speed (evasion) altogether.

For the following examples, use the following chart:

For the above to hold true, each skill level needs a numerical value.

.5 Beginner

1 Basic

1.5 Intermediate

2 Advanced

2.5 Master

4 Grandmaster

On top of that, each Comparison Tiers need a value.

1 Equivalent 

1.5 Advantage

2 Superior

2.5 Dominant

Blocking:

Attacker's Power * Skill VS the Blocker's Defense * Skill.

The result is then added to the Damage Check. An example follows:

Aaron tried to block Zachery's attack.

Aaron has 50 Defense and is Advanced in Hakudo Zachery has 40 Power and is Intermediate in Hakudo.

The equation becomes 50*2 VS 40*1.5 or 100 vs 60, a 40 point bonus in favor of Zachery's attack.

The advantage is then put against the defender's Static defense, as if blocking mitigated some of the damage (but not all.)

Aaron's Defense is 50, so 40 damage leaves a 10 point Equivalent spread. The resulting wound is moderate.

If Aaron had NOT blocked, then the spread would have been the originally 40, resulting in an Advantaged Attacker, yielding a Major wound.

WHY: Because the original version did not address any static defense, such as found on Kenpachi (Or assuredly any Tank build.)

Evasion:

Attacker's Precision * Skill VS the Evader's Speed + Precision

In the event of Hoho, the Evader's Hoho score is used instead.

And a hypothetical addition...... DEFLECTION!

Deflection:

Attacker's (Power + Precision)/2 * Skill VS the Deflector's (Speed + Precision)/2 * Skill

If the result is Equivalent or greater in the Deflector's favor, the attacker is stunned.

However, if the result is Equivalent or better in the Attacker's favor, the Deflection may fail.

Equivalent result overlaps, meaning that the outcome can be partial damage or in favor of either character depending on the situation.

Counterattack

Attacker's (Power + Precision)/2 * Skill VS the Defender's Defense/Advantage * Skill

The division of Defense represents the Off-balance penalty and only applies after a successful deflection.

Let's give a few examples!

Say Aaron wanted to fight Zachery.

Aaron through a punch and Zachery attempted to deflect.

Aaron has 50 Power, 20 Precision and a Hakudo skill of Advanced. So, Aaron's score is (50+20)/2 * 2, which is 70.

Zachery has 35 speed and 45 Precision with a Hakudo skill of Intermediate. So, Zachery's score is (35+45)/2 * 1.5 which is 60

There is a 10 point difference in favor of Aaron, making them of Equivalent.

Because of the situation, Aaron lands a partial hit that halves the damage.

Aaron's Power is 50 while Zachery's Defense is 20.

The 30 point difference is halved to 15, which barely qualifies as an Advantage in the favor of the attacker. The would inflicted is a Major strike

In hindsight, Zachery would find his opponent's skill level outmatched his own, despite his core stats being slightly higher.

This is the case of "Intelligence trumps Strength."

This one is totally up to debate... There was just no middle ground between block and evade... 

I think I'll stop here. I've probably said enough that my fellow peers may start begrudgingly hunting their D20's... >_>

Edit: HAd to fix Spoiler tags. XD

Reiatsu Perception could always be a stat instead of a skill. Would probably make it easier for checks, make people have to focus it more if you really want it to be a big part of your character and it's broad enough to be one. Might as well have a singular offensive stat and turn the Spirit we have now into... what was it? Reikaku?

Reikaku would be something that complimented Precision, and I agree that it could see a lot more use in combat. However, as a skill, I think Precision is best suited, but perhaps boosted by Reikaku? Maybe Reikaku be added in to the checks and balances of Evasion as a bonus. It could be easily added as a multiplier.

Attacker's Precision *Skill VS Evader's Speed + (Precision * Reikaku)

Adversely, you could use it as a multiplier to the sum of Speed and Precision, which would offer a higher yield. If both speed/precision were 50, the multiplier for just Precision would yield 125, while multiplying the sum would yield 150. Which is best is up to debate.

Soooo I'm going to toss in my two cents, see if I can get a dollar back. XD

 

Let's start with STATS!

SPOILER: Click to show

• Spirit and Strength are effectively the same thing in the world of Bleach. Unless you are a variant who uses purely physical strength, it is the spirit that reinforces both spiritual and physical power. Thus the two should be combined into "Power" to encompass both upper limit damage possibilities.
• Precision totally needs to return. Otherwise there's nothing that checks against speed. "I outrun your arrows" can be a problem if "My character has pinpoint accuracy" and there is no check to say otherwise.
• Substats can become a thing with the use of Focuses to simulate the difference between "Spirit and Strength"
  • Kenpachi builds, or those who prefer raw physical power over "Kido" or other magical, special or "effect" type abilities, would have a slight boost at a greater loss. This is a "Focus."
• Techniques (mentioned in the following spoiler) can play more on specific substats than an overarching stat. 
• Stamina should return to support the limited use of Techniques.
• An example of a Stat and Substat system is below, followed by an example using a "Tank" style focus.

SPOILER: Click to show

Reiatsu

Power

Physical: This describes the user's raw physical striking power, such as with fist or Zanpakuto prior to release.

Special: This describes the user's spiritual powers, such as Reishi manipulation, Kido or Zanpakuto effects (if not physical based)

Speed

Footspeed: Simply, how fast one moves without the use of Hoho.

Attack Speed: The quickness of individual and repeated strikes.

Evasion: The snap response time.

Precision

Close Quarters: Hand to hand accuracy, such as for pressure points.

<20m (up to 60 ft) Mid Range: Leading projectiles to hit moving targets and precise aim on specific body parts.

>20m (over 60 ft) Long Range: Leading projectiles to hit moving targets and precise aim on specific body parts.

Defense:

Static: The normal damage negation of damage.

Blocking: The damage negation when blocking.

Spirit:

Stamina Pool: Max amount of stamina

Stamina Regen: The speed at which stamina returns through Stamina Techniques

Health Regen: The rate at which the user heals. Cannot drop below half of the Spirit stat.

 

 

 

 

Reiatsu: 200

Power: 80¹

Physical: 80+(40/2)=100

Special 80-40=40

Speed: 50²

Footspeed 50-20=30

Attack Speed 50+(70/3)=73

Evasion 50-50=0

Precision: 20

Close Quarters 20+(40/3)=33

Mid Range 20-20=0

Long Range 20-20=0

Defense: 80³

Static: 80

Blocking: 80

Spirit: 20³

Stamina Pool: 20

Stamina Regen: 20

Health Regen: 20

 

 

Time for an explination.

1: Power's core stat is at 80, but the character had a much greater preferance of Physical to Special. Physical becomes the focus while Special was reduced by half. Half of 80 is 40, but only half of the loss is transformed to gain.

2: Divide by the number of substats to maintain balance of the boost.

3: These stats do not see a change, thus the substats can be used each at their full potential.

Pros and Cons time!

Pro:

• Even with Techniques being the only way to use a Focus, it allows a spike in ability that may temporarily even, or even surpass a foe. This can be useful in surprise attacks, while remaining a limited resource.
• Balance is maintained.
  • Power
    • Overpowers Defense
    • Overwhelmed by Speed
    • Disabled by Precision
  • Speed
    • Outruns Power
    • Is predicted by Precision
    • Cannot pierce Defenses
  • Precision
    • Predicts Speed
    • Nulled by Defense
    • Overwhelmed by Power
  • Defense
    • Resists Precision
    • Eroded by Power
    • Cannot be used Offensively
  • Spirit
    • Limited Resource
    • Technique based
• Substats allow further character customization without dividing Reiatsu points even further or costing even more GM.
• Min/Maxing is reduced greatly without completely negating archetypal builds.

Cons:

• Complexity is probably the biggest issue. This form of check and balance and division within divisions might feel a bit too "overcomplicated" and at times it can be for a freeform RP.
• Great cost, limited gain in Substats can be an issue, particularly when giving up something like Evasion for Attack Speed, being Evasion is permanently reduced but the Attack Speed boost may only be used as a Technique.
• Integration might also be an issue with a lot of players.

Techniques!

Sooo Techniques were a big thing in the Bleach Universe, and they could be a big thing in the Bleach Gotei universe with the right incentive. My idea? Different types of Techniques! Each with their own limitations and boundaries!

Style Technique

These techniques are often aesthetic. They are branches off of a single skill and are often unique to one character. These skills are non-leveling abilities which describe a single move that in the heat of battle may be misconstrued. These are basically a fully detailed statement that this move is not a total asspull. Style Techniques still have to be accepted before use, to make sure they do not qualify for another type of technique. If approved, Style Techniques do not upgrade, nor would they cost GM since nothing but fluff is gained. Style Techniques also do not require stamina to use, being no extra is needed. In essense Style is style is style.

Special Technique

These techniques are often branched off of racial specials such as the release of Shinigami and Arrancar. These are the "active" abilities that don't qualify for a skill, such as Kurosaki's "Getsuga Tensho." Special Techniques do not include STATIC effects, such as the doubling weight of "Wabisuke's" strikes. Special Techniques level according to the parent skill and do not have an individual cost.

Mastery Technique

Techniques with one parent skill, such as Utsusemi , are attainable only at a high parent skill level. The Mastery Techniques are requested and purchased via GM, but start at the level of mastery that is required of the Parent SKill. For example, Utsusemi may be a Master level ability, so it would be purchased at Master Level. Senka may be an Adept level, so it would be purchased at that level. Mastery Techniques often add effects to a given skill that push the upper boundaries. As such, each level of a Mastery Technique must be bought individually. (Perhaps at a reduced cost to Skill.)

Hybrid Technique

Almost a skill in themselves, Hybrid Techniques are the combinations of two parent skills. Shunko, the combination of Kido and Hakudo, is a prime example of a Hybrid Technique. These techniques begin at the lowest level and must be bought with GM similar to a skill. The peak level, however, is capped at the lowest level of the parent skills.

Branch Technique

The prime use for BRanch Technique is when a skill is just so broad, that it can't be encompassed by one skill. For example: Kido is divided into four, of which you may pick two for a Shinigami app. Branch Techniques may more accurately be called "Subskills" which I'll get to in a moment.

Seeing as we're getting into details like this, then there would be no reason not to have a page of acceptable techniques that a user can purchase without having to go through a strenuous check and balance of mechanics, such as those already in the Manga. 

Let's not forget! Focuses are applied to any technique they are relevant to. Of course, blocking ability is NOT added to Utsusemi, since the afterimages are not actually capable of blocking. The only possible exception is Style Technique.

Skills!

I agree that the progression of skills is strange and undefined. At best, things can remain the same with the addition of more information per skill level to better define said skill. This is particularly necessary in skills such as Hoho, where distance and number of uses is measured in the skill range. I'mma go through the various skills that I think are currently broken and why.

Hoho for starters.

AS I've mentioned, Hoho is one of those skills that can branch out into various Techniques. Shunpo, the Shinigami technique, is described as just that. Currently, Various techniques could operate in various ways and be used in place of a speed check when the technique is activated. I'll give a few examples.

• Sonido: Because the ability seems more natural for Hollows than Shunpo and Hirenkyaku are to their respective races, the ability could be determined by Power, a raw stat that, similar to Speed, would come natural. The power of Sonido could be found by (Power * Level) Being this move appears to have connections with mock speeds, the various levels could have descriptions that resemble the various levels of sonic speeds. Ofcourse, this is in terms of "Spirit" speeds, so normal km/h would NOT apply. This is simply a better way to describe the speeds at each level.
  • Beginner: Subsonic speeds
  • Basic: Transonic
  • Intermediate: Supersonic
  • Advanced: Hypersonic
  • Master: Ultrasonic
  • Grandmaster: Near Teleportation (Stark)

• Shunpo: Because the Shinigami ability revolves around speed, it could be found by multiplying the Speed stat to the technique's level. 
• Hirenkyaku: The ability is focused on creating platforms through heavy focus. The ability used by Quincy requires the creation of a flow of Reishi, then accurately riding it to the desired location. Due to the heavy precision needed, the effectiveness of Hirenkyaku could revolve around Precision multiplied by the level of the technique. A subtechnique at medium-higher levels would be the ability to create Reishi platforms.

Branching Techniques, as mentioned in the previous section, are more like Subskills that can be branched off into further Techniques, such as those employed by Kuchiki

Releases

These are broken simply because of the lack of a stamina system. Though these are "skills" they should have a stamina cost to maintain and use that decreases with mastery (thus symbolizing the ease by which it is used.) Initiation could give SOME stamina, before it begins to burn it away. That, accompanied with Special Techniques, would help equate the power of Release forms in a general battle. Why the "Add Stamina?" Because rarely ever did a character start out at max form. Plus, in most cases, there is an influx of energy coming from somewhere. The stamina boost may not be large, and it may not change via mastery (though with higher Spirit stat it may be increased) but it would make sense to use it when you need that boost.

Of course, I'm not touching on Transcendent power.

Checks and Balances:

Blocking should be a substat of Defense instead of Power, being that Power becomes an umbrella term that gives reason to Min/Maxing in favor of Power for a tank character and reduces the need for speed (evasion) altogether.

For the following examples, use the following chart:

For the above to hold true, each skill level needs a numerical value.

.5 Beginner

1 Basic

1.5 Intermediate

2 Advanced

2.5 Master

4 Grandmaster

On top of that, each Comparison Tiers need a value.

1 Equivalent 

1.5 Advantage

2 Superior

2.5 Dominant

Blocking:

Attacker's Power * Skill VS the Blocker's Defense * Skill.

The result is then added to the Damage Check. An example follows:

Aaron tried to block Zachery's attack.

Aaron has 50 Defense and is Advanced in Hakudo Zachery has 40 Power and is Intermediate in Hakudo.

The equation becomes 50*2 VS 40*1.5 or 100 vs 60, a 40 point bonus in favor of Zachery's attack.

The advantage is then put against the defender's Static defense, as if blocking mitigated some of the damage (but not all.)

Aaron's Defense is 50, so 40 damage leaves a 10 point Equivalent spread. The resulting wound is moderate.

If Aaron had NOT blocked, then the spread would have been the originally 40, resulting in an Advantaged Attacker, yielding a Major wound.

WHY: Because the original version did not address any static defense, such as found on Kenpachi (Or assuredly any Tank build.)

Evasion:

Attacker's Precision * Skill VS the Evader's Speed + Precision

In the event of Hoho, the Evader's Hoho score is used instead.

And a hypothetical addition...... DEFLECTION!

Deflection:

Attacker's (Power + Precision)/2 * Skill VS the Deflector's (Speed + Precision)/2 * Skill

If the result is Equivalent or greater in the Deflector's favor, the attacker is stunned.

However, if the result is Equivalent or better in the Attacker's favor, the Deflection may fail.

Equivalent result overlaps, meaning that the outcome can be partial damage or in favor of either character depending on the situation.

Counterattack

Attacker's (Power + Precision)/2 * Skill VS the Defender's Defense/Advantage * Skill

The division of Defense represents the Off-balance penalty and only applies after a successful deflection.

Let's give a few examples!

Say Aaron wanted to fight Zachery.

Aaron through a punch and Zachery attempted to deflect.

Aaron has 50 Power, 20 Precision and a Hakudo skill of Advanced. So, Aaron's score is (50+20)/2 * 2, which is 70.

Zachery has 35 speed and 45 Precision with a Hakudo skill of Intermediate. So, Zachery's score is (35+45)/2 * 1.5 which is 60

There is a 10 point difference in favor of Aaron, making them of Equivalent.

Because of the situation, Aaron lands a partial hit that halves the damage.

Aaron's Power is 50 while Zachery's Defense is 20.

The 30 point difference is halved to 15, which barely qualifies as an Advantage in the favor of the attacker. The would inflicted is a Major strike

In hindsight, Zachery would find his opponent's skill level outmatched his own, despite his core stats being slightly higher.

This is the case of "Intelligence trumps Strength."

This one is totally up to debate... There was just no middle ground between block and evade... 

I think I'll stop here. I've probably said enough that my fellow peers may start begrudgingly hunting their D20's... >_>

Edit: HAd to fix Spoiler tags. XD

As roleplayers I trust that we understand that our characters have limits and that we should not go overboard with that. As such I don't feel a pressing need of stamina to be a thing again. So long as you're happy and your partners are happy it works out fine and if not, someone will call you out. 

In regards to the other stuff. Way too much math; the core foundation of the site is writing, not mathematics. Having to whip out a calculator to start combat doesn't feel very intuitive or good for free form writing,

Also way too much stuff to consider for this. If there was that many different checks and specifics, it'll feel like a massive game of D&D where everyone's the DM with their own character.

Reiatsu Perception could always be a stat instead of a skill. Would probably make it easier for checks, make people have to focus it more if you really want it to be a big part of your character and it's broad enough to be one. Might as well have a singular offensive stat and turn the Spirit we have now into... what was it? Reikaku?

In the same breath, too many numbers overcomplicates things. Having 'empirical' comparison number values for everything feels iffy. It does not lend to a free form expression of a character unless you ignore it; if you do then there's a problem that they exist in the first instance. Here for Reiatsu Perception I believe that's a step too far.

EDIT: BTW Welcome back Cheshire <3

If 

 

Soooo I'm going to toss in my two cents, see if I can get a dollar back. XD

 

Let's start with STATS!

SPOILER: Click to show

• Spirit and Strength are effectively the same thing in the world of Bleach. Unless you are a variant who uses purely physical strength, it is the spirit that reinforces both spiritual and physical power. Thus the two should be combined into "Power" to encompass both upper limit damage possibilities.
• Precision totally needs to return. Otherwise there's nothing that checks against speed. "I outrun your arrows" can be a problem if "My character has pinpoint accuracy" and there is no check to say otherwise.
• Substats can become a thing with the use of Focuses to simulate the difference between "Spirit and Strength"
  • Kenpachi builds, or those who prefer raw physical power over "Kido" or other magical, special or "effect" type abilities, would have a slight boost at a greater loss. This is a "Focus."
• Techniques (mentioned in the following spoiler) can play more on specific substats than an overarching stat. 
• Stamina should return to support the limited use of Techniques.
• An example of a Stat and Substat system is below, followed by an example using a "Tank" style focus.

SPOILER: Click to show

Reiatsu

Power

Physical: This describes the user's raw physical striking power, such as with fist or Zanpakuto prior to release.

Special: This describes the user's spiritual powers, such as Reishi manipulation, Kido or Zanpakuto effects (if not physical based)

Speed

Footspeed: Simply, how fast one moves without the use of Hoho.

Attack Speed: The quickness of individual and repeated strikes.

Evasion: The snap response time.

Precision

Close Quarters: Hand to hand accuracy, such as for pressure points.

<20m (up to 60 ft) Mid Range: Leading projectiles to hit moving targets and precise aim on specific body parts.

>20m (over 60 ft) Long Range: Leading projectiles to hit moving targets and precise aim on specific body parts.

Defense:

Static: The normal damage negation of damage.

Blocking: The damage negation when blocking.

Spirit:

Stamina Pool: Max amount of stamina

Stamina Regen: The speed at which stamina returns through Stamina Techniques

Health Regen: The rate at which the user heals. Cannot drop below half of the Spirit stat.

 

 

 

 

Reiatsu: 200

Power: 80¹

Physical: 80+(40/2)=100

Special 80-40=40

Speed: 50²

Footspeed 50-20=30

Attack Speed 50+(70/3)=73

Evasion 50-50=0

Precision: 20

Close Quarters 20+(40/3)=33

Mid Range 20-20=0

Long Range 20-20=0

Defense: 80³

Static: 80

Blocking: 80

Spirit: 20³

Stamina Pool: 20

Stamina Regen: 20

Health Regen: 20

 

 

Time for an explination.

1: Power's core stat is at 80, but the character had a much greater preferance of Physical to Special. Physical becomes the focus while Special was reduced by half. Half of 80 is 40, but only half of the loss is transformed to gain.

2: Divide by the number of substats to maintain balance of the boost.

3: These stats do not see a change, thus the substats can be used each at their full potential.

Pros and Cons time!

Pro:

• Even with Techniques being the only way to use a Focus, it allows a spike in ability that may temporarily even, or even surpass a foe. This can be useful in surprise attacks, while remaining a limited resource.
• Balance is maintained.
  • Power
    • Overpowers Defense
    • Overwhelmed by Speed
    • Disabled by Precision
  • Speed
    • Outruns Power
    • Is predicted by Precision
    • Cannot pierce Defenses
  • Precision
    • Predicts Speed
    • Nulled by Defense
    • Overwhelmed by Power
  • Defense
    • Resists Precision
    • Eroded by Power
    • Cannot be used Offensively
  • Spirit
    • Limited Resource
    • Technique based
• Substats allow further character customization without dividing Reiatsu points even further or costing even more GM.
• Min/Maxing is reduced greatly without completely negating archetypal builds.

Cons:

• Complexity is probably the biggest issue. This form of check and balance and division within divisions might feel a bit too "overcomplicated" and at times it can be for a freeform RP.
• Great cost, limited gain in Substats can be an issue, particularly when giving up something like Evasion for Attack Speed, being Evasion is permanently reduced but the Attack Speed boost may only be used as a Technique.
• Integration might also be an issue with a lot of players.

Techniques!

Sooo Techniques were a big thing in the Bleach Universe, and they could be a big thing in the Bleach Gotei universe with the right incentive. My idea? Different types of Techniques! Each with their own limitations and boundaries!

Style Technique

These techniques are often aesthetic. They are branches off of a single skill and are often unique to one character. These skills are non-leveling abilities which describe a single move that in the heat of battle may be misconstrued. These are basically a fully detailed statement that this move is not a total asspull. Style Techniques still have to be accepted before use, to make sure they do not qualify for another type of technique. If approved, Style Techniques do not upgrade, nor would they cost GM since nothing but fluff is gained. Style Techniques also do not require stamina to use, being no extra is needed. In essense Style is style is style.

Special Technique

These techniques are often branched off of racial specials such as the release of Shinigami and Arrancar. These are the "active" abilities that don't qualify for a skill, such as Kurosaki's "Getsuga Tensho." Special Techniques do not include STATIC effects, such as the doubling weight of "Wabisuke's" strikes. Special Techniques level according to the parent skill and do not have an individual cost.

Mastery Technique

Techniques with one parent skill, such as Utsusemi , are attainable only at a high parent skill level. The Mastery Techniques are requested and purchased via GM, but start at the level of mastery that is required of the Parent SKill. For example, Utsusemi may be a Master level ability, so it would be purchased at Master Level. Senka may be an Adept level, so it would be purchased at that level. Mastery Techniques often add effects to a given skill that push the upper boundaries. As such, each level of a Mastery Technique must be bought individually. (Perhaps at a reduced cost to Skill.)

Hybrid Technique

Almost a skill in themselves, Hybrid Techniques are the combinations of two parent skills. Shunko, the combination of Kido and Hakudo, is a prime example of a Hybrid Technique. These techniques begin at the lowest level and must be bought with GM similar to a skill. The peak level, however, is capped at the lowest level of the parent skills.

Branch Technique

The prime use for BRanch Technique is when a skill is just so broad, that it can't be encompassed by one skill. For example: Kido is divided into four, of which you may pick two for a Shinigami app. Branch Techniques may more accurately be called "Subskills" which I'll get to in a moment.

Seeing as we're getting into details like this, then there would be no reason not to have a page of acceptable techniques that a user can purchase without having to go through a strenuous check and balance of mechanics, such as those already in the Manga. 

Let's not forget! Focuses are applied to any technique they are relevant to. Of course, blocking ability is NOT added to Utsusemi, since the afterimages are not actually capable of blocking. The only possible exception is Style Technique.

Skills!

I agree that the progression of skills is strange and undefined. At best, things can remain the same with the addition of more information per skill level to better define said skill. This is particularly necessary in skills such as Hoho, where distance and number of uses is measured in the skill range. I'mma go through the various skills that I think are currently broken and why.

Hoho for starters.

AS I've mentioned, Hoho is one of those skills that can branch out into various Techniques. Shunpo, the Shinigami technique, is described as just that. Currently, Various techniques could operate in various ways and be used in place of a speed check when the technique is activated. I'll give a few examples.

• Sonido: Because the ability seems more natural for Hollows than Shunpo and Hirenkyaku are to their respective races, the ability could be determined by Power, a raw stat that, similar to Speed, would come natural. The power of Sonido could be found by (Power * Level) Being this move appears to have connections with mock speeds, the various levels could have descriptions that resemble the various levels of sonic speeds. Ofcourse, this is in terms of "Spirit" speeds, so normal km/h would NOT apply. This is simply a better way to describe the speeds at each level.
  • Beginner: Subsonic speeds
  • Basic: Transonic
  • Intermediate: Supersonic
  • Advanced: Hypersonic
  • Master: Ultrasonic
  • Grandmaster: Near Teleportation (Stark)

• Shunpo: Because the Shinigami ability revolves around speed, it could be found by multiplying the Speed stat to the technique's level. 
• Hirenkyaku: The ability is focused on creating platforms through heavy focus. The ability used by Quincy requires the creation of a flow of Reishi, then accurately riding it to the desired location. Due to the heavy precision needed, the effectiveness of Hirenkyaku could revolve around Precision multiplied by the level of the technique. A subtechnique at medium-higher levels would be the ability to create Reishi platforms.

Branching Techniques, as mentioned in the previous section, are more like Subskills that can be branched off into further Techniques, such as those employed by Kuchiki

Releases

These are broken simply because of the lack of a stamina system. Though these are "skills" they should have a stamina cost to maintain and use that decreases with mastery (thus symbolizing the ease by which it is used.) Initiation could give SOME stamina, before it begins to burn it away. That, accompanied with Special Techniques, would help equate the power of Release forms in a general battle. Why the "Add Stamina?" Because rarely ever did a character start out at max form. Plus, in most cases, there is an influx of energy coming from somewhere. The stamina boost may not be large, and it may not change via mastery (though with higher Spirit stat it may be increased) but it would make sense to use it when you need that boost.

Of course, I'm not touching on Transcendent power.

Checks and Balances:

Blocking should be a substat of Defense instead of Power, being that Power becomes an umbrella term that gives reason to Min/Maxing in favor of Power for a tank character and reduces the need for speed (evasion) altogether.

For the following examples, use the following chart:

For the above to hold true, each skill level needs a numerical value.

.5 Beginner

1 Basic

1.5 Intermediate

2 Advanced

2.5 Master

4 Grandmaster

On top of that, each Comparison Tiers need a value.

1 Equivalent 

1.5 Advantage

2 Superior

2.5 Dominant

Blocking:

Attacker's Power * Skill VS the Blocker's Defense * Skill.

The result is then added to the Damage Check. An example follows:

Aaron tried to block Zachery's attack.

Aaron has 50 Defense and is Advanced in Hakudo Zachery has 40 Power and is Intermediate in Hakudo.

The equation becomes 50*2 VS 40*1.5 or 100 vs 60, a 40 point bonus in favor of Zachery's attack.

The advantage is then put against the defender's Static defense, as if blocking mitigated some of the damage (but not all.)

Aaron's Defense is 50, so 40 damage leaves a 10 point Equivalent spread. The resulting wound is moderate.

If Aaron had NOT blocked, then the spread would have been the originally 40, resulting in an Advantaged Attacker, yielding a Major wound.

WHY: Because the original version did not address any static defense, such as found on Kenpachi (Or assuredly any Tank build.)

Evasion:

Attacker's Precision * Skill VS the Evader's Speed + Precision

In the event of Hoho, the Evader's Hoho score is used instead.

And a hypothetical addition...... DEFLECTION!

Deflection:

Attacker's (Power + Precision)/2 * Skill VS the Deflector's (Speed + Precision)/2 * Skill

If the result is Equivalent or greater in the Deflector's favor, the attacker is stunned.

However, if the result is Equivalent or better in the Attacker's favor, the Deflection may fail.

Equivalent result overlaps, meaning that the outcome can be partial damage or in favor of either character depending on the situation.

Counterattack

Attacker's (Power + Precision)/2 * Skill VS the Defender's Defense/Advantage * Skill

The division of Defense represents the Off-balance penalty and only applies after a successful deflection.

Let's give a few examples!

Say Aaron wanted to fight Zachery.

Aaron through a punch and Zachery attempted to deflect.

Aaron has 50 Power, 20 Precision and a Hakudo skill of Advanced. So, Aaron's score is (50+20)/2 * 2, which is 70.

Zachery has 35 speed and 45 Precision with a Hakudo skill of Intermediate. So, Zachery's score is (35+45)/2 * 1.5 which is 60

There is a 10 point difference in favor of Aaron, making them of Equivalent.

Because of the situation, Aaron lands a partial hit that halves the damage.

Aaron's Power is 50 while Zachery's Defense is 20.

The 30 point difference is halved to 15, which barely qualifies as an Advantage in the favor of the attacker. The would inflicted is a Major strike

In hindsight, Zachery would find his opponent's skill level outmatched his own, despite his core stats being slightly higher.

This is the case of "Intelligence trumps Strength."

This one is totally up to debate... There was just no middle ground between block and evade... 

I think I'll stop here. I've probably said enough that my fellow peers may start begrudgingly hunting their D20's... >_>

Edit: HAd to fix Spoiler tags. XD

As roleplayers I trust that we understand that our characters have limits and that we should not go overboard with that. As such I don't feel a pressing need of stamina to be a thing again. So long as you're happy and your partners are happy it works out fine and if not, someone will call you out. 

In regards to the other stuff. Way too much math; the core foundation of the site is writing, not mathematics. Having to whip out a calculator to start combat doesn't feel very intuitive or good for free form writing,

Also way too much stuff to consider for this. If there was that many different checks and specifics, it'll feel like a massive game of D&D where everyone's the DM with their own character.

Reiatsu Perception could always be a stat instead of a skill. Would probably make it easier for checks, make people have to focus it more if you really want it to be a big part of your character and it's broad enough to be one. Might as well have a singular offensive stat and turn the Spirit we have now into... what was it? Reikaku?

In the same breath, too many numbers overcomplicates things. Having 'empirical' comparison number values for everything feels iffy. It does not lend to a free form expression of a character unless you ignore it; if you do then there's a problem that they exist in the first instance. Here for Reiatsu Perception I believe that's a step too far.

EDIT: BTW Welcome back Cheshire <3

If I may chime in, stamina and really all of these suggestions for a stat based system would only be necessary when and if a player wants/needs to use them. If you and your threading partner agree on individual strength before combat you can combat without ever touching a calculator. Just a thought.

If I may chime in, stamina and really all of these suggestions for a stat based system would only be necessary when and if a player wants/needs to use them. If you and your threading partner agree on individual strength before combat you can combat without ever touching a calculator. Just a thought.

I concur. The idea is that in a battle where the outcome is uncertain and there is active competition, that the players have a reliable and fair system to govern a fight. This limits Asspulls and fights where people constantly seem to run on empty or catch a second, third, forth, umteenth wind. If a fight is planned out, or there's a generally light air to it, then there's no need for stats period. 

In the same breath, too many numbers overcomplicates things. Having 'empirical' comparison number values for everything feels iffy. It does not lend to a free form expression of a character unless you ignore it; if you do then there's a problem that they exist in the first instance. Here for Reiatsu Perception I believe that's a step too far.

I agree that there is an overcomplication that comes with governing so many variables. However, the act of "ignoring them" is well within the rights of the players.

Let me revise my entire post by saying this: Tournament Rules VS Casual Rules. In a casual fight where the outcome is perhaps decided, or the steps are preplanned, Casual Rules would allow one to bypass most if not all of the calculations. However, Tournament Rules would be in use for open ended fights where the outcome is an issue of serious debate. For example, a literal tournament with a special title or other reward. This could (and probably does) hold true for the current, previous or any future system put into place.

 

Let me revise my entire post by saying this: Tournament Rules VS Casual Rules. In a casual fight where the outcome is perhaps decided, or the steps are preplanned, Casual Rules would allow one to bypass most if not all of the calculations. However, Tournament Rules would be in use for open ended fights where the outcome is an issue of serious debate. For example, a literal tournament with a special title or other reward. This could (and probably does) hold true for the current, previous or any future system put into place.

 

While there is merit and practical application to the things you're proposing, I think this suggestion pretty fundamentally misses the issue at hand.  Bleach Gotei is not in need of granular, detailed, multiple sets of rules in order to accommodate frequent and contentious battles including tournaments.

If the local Mechanics nerd might chime in?

The problem with attempting to create a set of mechanics for sitewide use is two-fold; first, you have the issue of balance, of making it fair while still allowing people to do cool stuff. This is a very difficult thing to do, as you can tell from the dozens of mechanics updates that were made under the old system.

The secomd issue is (again) two fold, and has to do with both the enforcement of said mechanics (ie making sure people understand and follow the rules) and integration- that is to say, making sure people not only follow the rules, but actively combine them with their own RP experience here on BG. Under the old system, this is where we ran into problems, namely with enforcment; people either didn't understand, or didn't follow, the old system, often because they thought it was too complicated/restricting.

I believe that attempting to go back to the old system, or one like it, would cause more problems than it woule solve (such as the ones I outlined above), and as such I believe that what we have now, while not perfect, is the best system for BG as a community.

To make up a quote, "We are writers, not fighters. If combat is why you are here, you may be in the wrong place."

I don't disagree. The numerous suggestions I offered are probably in part because I missed out on the previous structure that I believe I would have thrived under. However, I still believe there are some minor changes that even in the current build would help. Mainly revolving around the Stats, excluding Stamina if advanced mechanics are a problem. Strength and Spirit should be combined into Power, and Precision should be added to reduce Min/Maxing and give Speed something to check against. 

I'm going to keep brief about a few things:

Not having stamina? Doesn't really matter in regards to necessity. It can be done and makes the whole of a system easier but in of itself does not solve any one issues. However this...idea of overcomplication when at it's most severe asks you to add small numbers together makes my head hurt somewhat. Finding your Reiatsu is more difficult than what was and what is being suggested. There is a point where those remarks start to be less understanding as far as not wrapping one's head around it and more about laziness. 

Which again, was the point of it never being mandatory but being there if necessity or yes, creativity required it. 

Having rules in place to deal with an issue without bias is more important than just saying "well the mods will settle it if/when it comes up". That excuse is lazy, and prone to personal bias. Having a clear "this is how it functions" can be pointed towards if/when there is an issue and provide something more than dick measuring as things currently stand. You're using half a system now that is unrefined and sloppy. You're using the stats and the basic combat rules that were already in place, the latter of which was more complicated than most things. It solves nothing if it has to and it comes down to slap fights if necessary with people close together rather than any strategy or thought being applied. Techniques and Skill focus were the balancing half to that. 

It's this little game of "Let's be freeform but not quite!" and it's actually fairly annoying. Lukewarm water. An attempt to replace it was made and that was both sloppy and the quickest means of trying fob off the general idea that something was being done. I'm making the assumption that altering or replacing the system that was there was a genuine effort and thus would like to see the things that are being said to that being paid attention to rather than ignored or handwaved under the pretense of "We're not a numbers game".

The stats need diversification. 

You need techniques that allow more than hitting one another. 

You need skill ranks that do something to help diversify that and focus what the skill itself does. 

Having it does not cost you anything but the time and thought to write it up or prove detrimental to the forums by being there.

It will draw some players and as long as you make it clear that it's not mandatory to play here then there shouldn't be any issue with driving any off. It's there as a problem solving tool you ALREADY HAVE HALF OF. Finishing it adds a layer of interest or access to people who prefer forums that aren't freeform without necessitating that people partake in it more than they already do.