Ragnarok Design Diary - Mentalax, The Outsider, of Hero P.R.I.M.E.

As a design challenge, and to test the robustness of the Ragnarok Game Engine (which you can see in action here). A couple of weeks ago, I started a superhero conversion and a campaign for my wife to play in. I will post details of the campaign, and of her character, in a future design diary.

But for now, I thought I would convert one of William Thrasher's supers from Hero P.R.I.M.E, which we played on a Live Plays episode that you should watch! (boy it's annoying typing all those caps and periods interspersed like that!). Since I played Mentalax the Outsider, I thought I would start with him.

Also, all the powers I needed to write him up are done. Can't say that about some of the others (work, work, work).

The attachment shows Mentalax, statted for the Ragnarok Game Engine. Here is the background that Mr. Thrasher included with the character, along with the sort of play the build lends itself to (this last is mine, based on how the character played in Fate, which I found easy to replicate using Ragnarok):

Origin Story: Mentalax was the most psychically, socially, and technologically advanced planet in the galaxy until it was devoured by The Phade. Only G’ary M’Arshal of the Pentasetsaliavenetresmagisters survived! Braving the hazards of space, he travelled to Earth to warn its people of the threat of The Phade. Teaming up with Paragon, Reaper-man, and Lady Artemis, The Phade was defeated and team Hero P.R.I.M.E. founded! But despite dedicating his life to protecting the Earth, G’Ary M’Arshal will forever be . . . the Outsider!

Play Style: Though a skilled combatant, The Outsider is better when acting indirectly, rather than duking it out. His Psychic Sensitivity can find problems as, or sometimes before, they arise, allowing him and his team-mates to be in the right place at the right time. His illusory form allows him to blend into just about any crowd, but he has to be careful about cameras and other things whose senses he cannot fool. Mentalax can fly, and is strong enough to carry a car while doing so, so he can easily take one or more passengers or rescued bystanders, at need. His intellect and alien education, though occasionally a detriment because of unfamiliarity, allow him to think his way out of trouble, or come up with the necessary information when the team needs research done.

Mentalax’s might is impressive, allowing him to lift about 4 tons if necessary. His telekinesis, though not so powerful in combat, packs a solid punch, and allows him to grab, hold, throw, and other wise manipulate the battlefield. When he concentrates, The Outsider is capable of considerably greater Telekinetic effort, lifting as much as 4 tons if necessary.

I will post more of Hero P.R.I.M.E. (cursed capitals and periods again!) in the near future. LMK what you think, and feel free to ask questions.