Optional Systems

Variant Rules

Optional subsystems meant to be adopted intentionally at session zero, not assumed by default. Core player rules live in the Rules Compendium; GM operations live in the Game Master Reference.

Library Overview
Pathfinder Unchained
Player-facing rules — these replace or extend core mechanics for individual characters. Discuss with your GM before adopting.
Skill Unlocks
Background Skills
Unchained Classes
Automatic Bonus Progression
Fractional Base Bonuses
Consolidated Skills
Revised Action Economy
Dynamic Item Creation
Variant Systems
Alternative Rules

Different damage tracks, armour that stops hits instead of dodges them, hero points, called shots, and rules for young characters.

Combat Variants

Gunpowder weapons, formal duels, performance combat for crowds, siege engines, and vehicle combat.

Magic Variants

Spell research, psychic magic, spell duels, Words of Power, spellblights, and occult rituals.

Campaign Variants

Honor, fame, hex exploration, horror and corruption systems, race builder, and mythic play.

Technology Guide

Numerian science-fantasy rules — power cells, radiation, artificial intelligence, and skymetals.

Mythic Adventures
Mythic Overview
Mythic Power
Mythic Paths