Basic Rules
Martial Arts have a primary attack primary defense, strength attack, average attack and weak attack.
Primary Attack
The primary attack is defined under each specific
martial arts style. When figuring damage for that particular attack
add character's skill level x2 to effective body and use the modified
body to decide damage for this attack. Therefore Ripper with Body
of 7 and a Boxing skill of +3 would add 6 to effective body damage modifier
based on a body of 13. This raises his damage modifier to +6 instead
of the normal +0.
Primary Dodge
Whenever the character uses the primary dodge add
+3 to initiative.
Strength Attack
This is any attack that has a bonus of +3 or more.
When figuring damage add the character's skill level x1.5 to the effective
body (round down) and use the modified body to decide damage for this attack.
Therefore Ripper with Body of 7 and a Boxing skill of +3 would add 4 (4.5
round down) to effective body damage modifier based on a body of 11.
This raises his damage modifier to +4 instead of the normal +0.
Average Attack
This attack is trained but not especially so. Any
attack that has a bonus of +2 to +1 is considered to be an average attack.
When figuring damage for that particular attack add character's skill
level to effective body and use the modified body to decide damage for
this attack. Therefore Ripper with Body of 7 and a Boxing skill of
+3 would add 3 to effective body damage modifier based on a body of 10.
This raises his damage modifier to +2 instead of the normal +0.
Weak Attack
These attacks are not trained in the martial
arts and in fact the style does not handle them particularly well any modifier
of +0 or below. When figuring damage add 1/2 the character's skill
level to the effective body (round down) and use the modified body to decide
damage for this attack. Therefore Ripper with Body of 7 and a Boxing skill
of +3 would add 1 (1.5 round down) to effective body damage modifier based
on a body of 8. This raises his damage modifier to +1 instead of
the normal +0.
Weapons
Some martial arts make use of weapons in their style.
In this case the practitioner may roll their martial arts skill whenever
using a weapon of the named type. (though of course many of the maneuvers
cannot be done with that weapon)
The remainder of this text includes a list of martial arts with skill multipiers, descriptions, primary attacks, primary defenses, special bonuses, weapons attack bonuses.
Styles
Aikido (2)
Aikido is a system in which is known for its non-aggressive defense. Students of this system are taught never to attack, but to use their attackers' momentum and weight against them.
Primary Attack: Grapple
Primary Defense: Dodge
Special Bonuses: None
Weapons: None
| Strike | Kick | Block/Parry | Dodge | Throw | Hold | Escape | Choke | Sweep | Grapple |
| +0 | +0 | +3 | +4 | +3 | +3 | +3 | +1 | +3 | +2 |
Aiki-Jutsu (3)
The precursor to modern Aikido, Aiki-jutsu was another system that was created during the age of the Samurai. Using the techniques of Kenjutsu (precursor of Kendo) as a basis, this system uses grapples, throws, and strikes (atemi-waza) to disable an opponent while unarmed. This system has fallen much to the wayside in today's troubled times, but it is one of the systems that trains a student in the way of the Katana.
Primary Attack: Grapple
Primary Defense: Block
Special Bonuses: None
Weapons: Katana, Spear, Naginata
| Strike | Kick | Block/Parry | Dodge | Throw | Hold | Escape | Choke | Sweep | Grapple |
| +2 | +0 | +1 | +1 | +1 | +2 | +1 | +0 | +0 | +2 |
Arasaka-Te (2)
Several years ago, Arasaka Corp. was looking for a standard martial art to teach its employees in the field. Not satisified with what was available, the mega-corporation sought out top instructors in several different systems and created what is essentially a blending of systems and techniques. Now, with the new style featured prominantly in several tri-vids (all produced by a subsidiary of Arasaka of course), Arasaka-te is only taught by those affiliated with Arasaka and only to their chosen employees. A more toned down version of it is taught in public at Arasaka sponsored dojos. The number after the slash is this weakened version. Anyone taught the true version has a mental block against teaching it that only Arasaka knows how to remove.
Primary Attack: Choke
Primary Defense: Block
Special Bonuses: None
Weapons: Tonfa, Nightstick
| Strike | Kick | Block/Parry | Dodge | Throw | Hold | Escape | Choke | Sweep | Grapple |
| +3/+1 | +2/+1 | +2/+1 | +2/+1 | +2/+1 | +2/+1 | +2/+0 | +3/+2 | +2/+1 | +2/+2 |
Arnis / Escrima (3)
This Phillipino martial art relies on the use of clubs, also known as Escrima sticks, and knives in order to defend themselves. Practitioners often use a weapon in each hand and intricate maneuvers to defeat any adversary they come against.
Primary Attack: Strike
Primary Defense: Block
Special Bonuses: -1 to the 2-Hand Penalty every 3 levels
Weapons: Clubs, Knives
| Strike | Kick | Block/Parry | Dodge | Throw | Hold | Escape | Choke | Sweep | Grapple |
| +3 | +0 | +3 | +2 | +0 | +1 | +0 | +0 | +0 | +1 |
Boxing (2)
Asia is well known for its many varied forms of martial arts, but the Western Hemisphere is best known for the art of Boxing. There are no kicks, elbows, knee strikes, throws, or grapples of any form in this martial art, only punches and parries. The boxer relies on his endurance to outlast any opponent he comes across.
Primary Attack: Strike
Primary Defense: Block
Special Bonuses: +1 level of Endurance for every 3 levels of Boxing
Weapons: None
| Strike | Kick | Block/Parry | Dodge | Throw | Hold | Escape | Choke | Sweep | Grapple |
| +3 | +0 | +3 | +2 | +0 | +0 | +0 | +0 | +0 | +0 |
Capeoria (3)
Not many people would consider a handstand a good place to throw a kick, but the Capeoria artist enjoys nothing better. Brazilian slaves developed this system in order to aid defending themselves, even when shackled in chains. Gymnastics are a major portion of this system.
Primary Attack: Kick
Primary Defense: Dodge
Special Bonuses: None
Weapons: Machete, Chains
| Strike | Kick | Block/Parry | Dodge | Throw | Hold | Escape | Choke | Sweep | Grapple |
| +1 | +4 | +2 | +2 | +0 | +0 | +0 | +0 | +3 | +0 |
Chin Na (2)
Often taught as a part of another system, Chin Na is the Chinese precursor to Aikido and Jiu-Jitsu. Chin Na makes use of attacks to the joints and pressure point strikes in order to disable an opponent.
Primary Attack: Grappling
Primary Defense: Block
Special Bonuses: None
Weapons: None
| Strike | Kick | Block/Parry | Dodge | Throw | Hold | Escape | Choke | Sweep | Grapple |
| +0 | +0 | +2 | +0 | +0 | +2 | =0 | +2 | +1 | +3 |
Choi Li Fut (3)
Also called Choi Lay Fut, this Chinese form of martial arts is well known around the world. Practitioners use circular attacks and sweeping movements to defeat their opponents.
Primary Attack: Strike
Primary Defense: Dodge
Special Bonuses: None
Weapons: Three-Section Staff, Willow Sword(s), Spear, Nine Section
Whip
| Strike | Kick | Block/Parry | Dodge | Throw | Hold | Escape | Choke | Sweep | Grapple |
| +2 | +2 | +1 | +3 | +0 | +0 | +0 | +0 | +2 | +0 |
Commando (2)
This is the military hand-to-hand that is taught to grunts everywhere. This isn't an actual style, but a combination of effective techniques taken from other systems. Soldiers are taught to use their hands and feet as weapons, but emphasis is placed on knife fighting.
Primary Attack: Strike
Primary Defense: Block
Special Bonuses: +1 initiative
Weapons: Knife
| Strike | Kick | Block/Parry | Dodge | Throw | Hold | Escape | Choke | Sweep | Grapple |
| +3+0 | +3 | +0 | +1 | +0 | +0 | +0 | +0 | +1 | +2 |
Hwarang-Do (4)
One of the oldest of the Korean martial arts, Hwarang-Do was created with the intention of teaching the nobles a system of combat and living that could be applied to their duties. This system is very diverse, with techniques ranging from empty hand techniques to grappling and weapon useage.
Primary Attack: Strike
Primary Defense: Block
Special Bonuses: +1 to Stealth and Athletics for every 4 levels of
Hwarang-Do
Weapons: Knives, Staff, Spear, Clubs
| Strike | Kick | Block/Parry | Dodge | Throw | Hold | Escape | Choke | Sweep | Grapple |
| +2 | +3 | +2 | +1 | +1 | +2 | +0 | +0 | +0 | +1 |
Jeet Kune Do (3)
This system was developed by Bruce Lee before his untimely death. Master Lee researched many different forms of martial art, both Eastern and Western, and created a diversified martial art system that could be made to fit anyone.
Primary Attack: Strike
Primary Defense: Dodge
Special Bonuses: None
Weapons: Nunchakus, Clubs
| Strike | Kick | Block/Parry | Dodge | Throw | Hold | Escape | Choke | Sweep | Grapple |
| +2 | +1 | +3 | +1 | +1 | +0 | +1 | +0 | +1 | +1 |
Jiu-Jitsu (2)
Jiu-Jitsu is another form of grappling from the island of Japan. It is said that the roots of this system can be found in the Chinese system of Chin Na. This system teaches that anything goes, including techniques such as eye gouging.
Primary Attack: Throw
Primary Defense: Dodge
Special Bonuses None
Weapons: Bo Staff
| Strike | Kick | Block/Parry | Dodge | Throw | Hold | Escape | Choke | Sweep | Grapple |
| +1 | +0 | +2 | +1 | +1 | +2 | +1 | +0 | +1 | +2 |
Judo (3)
The ancient Japanese art of grappling. This martial art, unlike Aikido, does advocate the use of attacks and will use their strength and skills to disrupt their opponent's center of gravity and throw them.
Primary Attack: Throw
Primary Defense: Escape
Special Bonuses: None
Weapons: None
| Strike | Kick | Block/Parry | Dodge | Throw | Hold | Escape | Choke | Sweep | Grapple |
| +0 | +0 | +0 | +2 | +4 | +3 | +3 | +3 | +0 | +2 |
Karate (Shotokan) (2)
Originally coming from Okinawa where it was known as Te, Karate spread to Japan around the turn of the 20th Century. This system is known for its hard, aggressive techniques combining the use of the hands and feet as weapons to destroy ones opponent. (Note: This is a grouping is based upon Shotokan Karate. I am currently working on the other Japanese systems of Karate.)
Primary Attack: Strike
Primary Defense: Block
Special Bonuses: None
Weapons: Bo Staff, Sai, Kama, Nunchaku, Tonfa
| Strike | Kick | Block/Parry | Dodge | Throw | Hold | Escape | Choke | Sweep | Grapple |
| +3 | +2 | +3 | +1 | +0 | +0 | +0 | +0 | +1 | +0 |
Kenpo Karate (4)
The system popularized by Ed Parker. This system, which has a basis in Chinese Kenpo, employs lightning fast strikes and the theory that the opponent's reaction to your attacks should be followed (ie. a strike to the stomach causes the head to lower, so strike the head next).
Primary Attack: Strike
Primary Defense: Block
Special Bonuses -2 modifier per successive action, maximum number actions
is 1/2 of a character's REF
Weapons: Clubs, Knives
| Strike | Kick | Block/Parry | Dodge | Throw | Hold | Escape | Choke | Sweep | Grapple |
| +3 | +1 | +3 | +1 | +0 | +0 | +0 | +0 | +2 | +0 |
Kyokushinkai (4)
The Japanese call this system "Brutal Karate" due to its no-holds barred style of combat. Students of this art are taught the true meaning of Budo and undergo some of the most rigorous training imaginable. Students train without the use of protective gear, and Tamashiwara (breaking) training is a must.
Primary Attack: Strike
Primary Defense: Block
Special Bonuses:
Primary attack damage bonus for both kicks and strikes
(x2.5 skill level added to Body for purposes of damage) due to (breaking)
training
Weapons: None
| Strike | Kick | Block/Parry | Dodge | Throw | Hold | Escape | Choke | Sweep | Grapple |
| +4 | +3 | +3 | +0 | +1 | +0 | +0 | +0 | +1 | +0 |
Ninjutsu (3)
The "Art of Assassination". This is a Japanese system that originated during the age of the Samurai. When spies were needed to perform a job that was dishonorable in the eyes of the samurai, the ninja were called in. The practitioners of this system prefer to use stealth to defeat their opponents, rather than actual combat skills. Of course, when the time came to fight, the Ninja were more than capable in that department as well.
Primary Attack: Strike
Primary Defense: Block
Special Bonuses: +1 level of Stealth for every 3 levels of Ninjitsu
Weapons: Ninja-to (Sword), Kusari-gama, Mariki-gusari, Shuriken
| Strike | Kick | Block/Parry | Dodge | Throw | Hold | Escape | Choke | Sweep | Grapple |
| +2 | +1 | +3 | +1 | +0 | +1 | +3 | +1 | +0 | +1 |
Savate (2)
Yes, the French have their own martial art, Savate. This system utilizes a great number of attacks to defeat anyone that would attack them.
Primary Attack: Kick
Primary Defense: Block
Special Bonuses: None
Weapons: Cane
| Strike | Kick | Block/Parry | Dodge | Throw | Hold | Escape | Choke | Sweep | Grapple |
| +0 | +4 | +2 | +1 | +0 | +0 | +0 | +0 | +3 | +0 |
Tae Kwon Do (2)
The primary martial art of Korea, Tae Kwon Do practitioners are known for their use of the legs in kicking attacks. This art produces some of the most beautiful kicking and aerial techniques available.
Primary Attack: Kick
Primary Defense: Block
Special Bonuses: None
Weapons: Bo Staff, Club, Nunchakus
| Strike | Kick | Block/Parry | Dodge | Throw | Hold | Escape | Choke | Sweep | Grapple |
| +2 | +3 | +3 | +2 | +0 | +0 | +0 | +0 | +0 | +0 |
Tai Chi Chuan (2)
One of the internal systems of Kung Fu, Tai Chi Chuan is widely regarded
as a system completely devoted to nothing but the health of its practitioner.
This is far from the truth, as many of its techniques are of pratical use
in combat. Just because a movement is done slowly does not preclude its
use in combat, one only has to speed up the movement (and remember, a technique
that has been practiced for 10 years slowly could be truly deadly when
sped up).
Tai Chi Chuan in combat is focused primarily on moving inside the opponent's
defenses giving him insufficient room to strike and attacking from within
that range.
Primary Attack: Strike
Primary Defense: Sweep
Special Bonuses: None
Weapons: Chinese Straight Sword (Lion Head Sword)
| Strike | Kick | Block/Parry | Dodge | Throw | Hold | Escape | Choke | Sweep | Grapple |
| +3 | +1 | +2 | +2 | +0 | +0 | +0 | +0 | +2 | +0 |
Taido (3)
Taido is a relatively new martial art that surfaced in Japan. In this system, the practitioner strives to achieve the most difficult and beautiful moves that he can in a self-defense situation. Techniques that follow a straight line are never used, instead the Taido stylist believes in going airborne and spinnig in order to achieve his results. Many consider this system to be nothing but a showmanship style.
Primary Attack: Kick
Primary Defense: Dodge
Special Bonuses: +1 foot standing jump distance per 3 levels
Weapons: None
| Strike | Kick | Block/Parry | Dodge | Throw | Hold | Escape | Choke | Sweep | Grapple |
| +2 | +4 | +0 | +4 | +0 | +0 | +0 | +0 | +2 | +0 |
Thai Kickboxing (4)
Contrary to the name, there is little relation between this martial art and Western Boxing. This is a brutal martial art in which just about anything goes. Kickboxers use knees, elbows and kicks to wear their opponents down in the ring. Good endurance is a must for anyone wishing to study this system.
Primary Attack: Kick
Primary Defense: Block
Special Bonuses: +1 to Endurance per every 3 levels of Thai Kickboxing
Weapons: None
| Strike | Kick | Block/Parry | Dodge | Throw | Hold | Escape | Choke | Sweep | Grapple |
| +3 | +4 | +3 | +2 | +0 | +0 | +0 | +0 | +1 | +3 |
Wing Chun (2)
The original martial art of legendary film star Bruce Lee, Wing Chun uses many blocking techniques and hand strikes to get in close and attack along an opponents center line. This system is believed to have been developed by a woman as a means of self-defense against attackers.
Primary Attack: Strike
Primary Defense: Block
Special Bonuses: None
Weapons: Staff, Butterfly Swords (a short sword, not the flip knife)
| Strike | Kick | Block/Parry | Dodge | Throw | Hold | Escape | Choke | Sweep | Grapple |
| +2 | +1 | +4 | +2 | +0 | +0 | +0 | +0 | +2 | +0 |
Wrestling (2)
Originated in Ancient Greece, wrestling is one of the few Western Martial Arts. It focuses on placing the opponent on the ground and immobilizing him. This form is often used more as a recreational activity than a matter of self-defense.
Primary Attack: Grapple
Primary Defense: Escape
Special Bonuses: None
Weapons: None
| Strike | Kick | Block/Parry | Dodge | Throw | Hold | Escape | Choke | Sweep | Grapple |
| +0 | +0 | +0 | +0 | +3 | +4 | +4 | +2 | +2 | +4 |
Wushu (3)
Wushu is the national martial art of China. This system was developed more for its Athleticism than the defensive application of its techniques. This system is very flashy, combining acrobatic moves with traditional techniques.
Primary Attack: Strike / Kick
Primary Defense: Block / Dodge
Special Bonuses: +1 to Athletics for every 3 levels of Wushu
Weapons: Darn Dao (Sword), Spear, Three Section Staff, Staff, Kwan-Do
| Strike | Kick | Block/Parry | Dodge | Throw | Hold | Escape | Choke | Sweep | Grapple |
| +2 | +2 | +2 | +2 | +0 | +0 | +0 | +0 | +2 | +0 |
Shaolin Kung Fu (2)
This is a Chinese form of martial arts that is considered by many as the basis for the martial arts around the world. It is said that a monk from India, by the name of Bodhidharma, came to the Shaolin monostary to teach Buddhism. Finding the monks there too weak to meditate properly, Bodhidharma began teaching a regimen of exercises to strengthen both mind and body. These exercises became what is now known as Shaolin Kung Fu.
Primary Attack: Strike
Primary Defense: Block
Special Bonuses: None
Weapons: Staff, Spear, Broadsword
| Strike | Kick | Block/Parry | Dodge | Throw | Hold | Escape | Choke | Sweep | Grapple |
| +2 | +1 | +2 | +3 | +0 | +0 | +0 | +0 | +2 | +0 |
Animal Kung Fu (3)
These are forms based on animal movements, such as crane, mantis, tiger,
leopard, and dragaon froms. These attacks are fast and dangerous, with
a style that is exciting and flashy.
This form includes most of the training included in each of the different
animal styles of Kung Fu and in fact the practitioner is expected to begin
training in each of the others as his training progresses. Key attacks
include: strrikes, punches, kicks, blocks & parries, sweeps & trips.
The bonuses from animal kung fu adds to the bonuses from the most favorable
bonus of any animal styles the character knows. However, Bonus up
to +1 are gained at skill level 3 bonuses up to +2 are gained at skill
level 8 and bonuses of +3 are gained at 10 or higher. The character
normally rolls the specific style of animal kung fu not the generalized
form. All other advantages are stacked with the original form.
Primary Attack: Strike
Primary Defense: Block
Special Bonuses: Opponent receives -2 to Stun Saves, +2 to Damage on
Strikes in addition to other damage bonus, 1 specific kung fu animal style
is expected per +3 in skill, many teachers will stop teaching if they refuse.
Weapons: Staff, Spear, Broadsword
| Strike | Kick | Block/Parry | Dodge | Throw | Hold | Escape | Choke | Sweep | Grapple |
| +3 | +2 | +2 | +3 | +0 | +1 | +0 | +2 | +2 | +2 |
Crane Style Kung Fu (2)
In ancient China, a shaolin monk came upon a battle between a whooping crane and an dragon. The crane used its powerful wings and sharp beak to fend off the dragon and escape unharmed. The monk took what he saw and turned it into a viable form of martial arts. The system makes use of long sweeping arm techniques and leg blocks.
Primary Attack: Strike
Primary Defense: Block
Special Bonuses: None
Weapons: Staff
| Strike | Kick | Block/Parry | Dodge | Throw | Hold | Escape | Choke | Sweep | Grapple |
| +2 | +1 | +2 | +2 | +0 | +0 | +0 | +0 | +0 | +0 |
Dragon Style Kung Fu (2)
A system that was based upon the mythical dragon of Chinese legend. Clawing and spinning attacks are prevalent in this system.
Primary Attack: Strike
Primary Defense: Dodge
Special Bonuses: None
Weapons: None
| Strike | Kick | Block/Parry | Dodge | Throw | Hold | Escape | Choke | Sweep | Grapple |
| +2 | +1 | +2 | +1 | +0 | +0 | +0 | +0 | +2 | +0 |
Eagle Claw Kung Fu (2)
Another system that utilizes attacks on pressure points in the hopes that the opponent will be rendered unable to attack as quickly as possible.
Primary Attack: Choke
Primary Defense: Block
Special Bonuses: Opponent receives additional -2 to Stun Saves
Weapons: Sai
| Strike | Kick | Block/Parry | Dodge | Throw | Hold | Escape | Choke | Sweep | Grapple |
| +1 | +0 | +1 | +0 | +0 | +0 | +0 | +3 | +0 | +2 |
Leopard Style Kung Fu (2)
Another of the animal kung fu systems, Leopard stylists uses blindingly fast strikes combined with agile dodges in order to defeat anyone with the audacity to attack them.
Primary Attack: Strike
Primary Defense: Dodge
Special Bonuses: Requires a Reflexes of 8+
Weapons: None
| Strike | Kick | Block/Parry | Dodge | Throw | Hold | Escape | Choke | Sweep | Grapple |
| +3 | +1 | +0 | +3 | +0 | +0 | +0 | +0 | +1 | +0 |
Monkey Style Kung Fu (2)
Also sometimes known as the 'Drunken Monkey' form, Monkey Style Kung Fu uses what seems to be sporadic and chaotic movements to confuse and distract their opponent. It can seem almost comical to view until its techniques are used on you.
Primary Attack: Kick
Primary Defense: Dodge
Special Bonuses: None
Weapons: None
| Strike | Kick | Block/Parry | Dodge | Throw | Hold | Escape | Choke | Sweep | Grapple |
| +1 | +1 | +1 | +3 | +0 | +0 | +1 | +0 | +0 | +1 |
Praying Mantis Kung Fu (2)
Known as the king of the insect world, the preying matis uses its large claws to attack and kill its prey. Much like the mantis, a martial artist who has studied this system forms his hands into pincer like claws and strikes out at his opponent.
Primary Attack: Strike
Primary Defense: Block
Special Bonuses: None
Weapons: None
| Strike | Kick | Block/Parry | Dodge | Throw | Hold | Escape | Choke | Sweep | Grapple |
| +2 | +1 | +2 | +0 | +0 | +1 | +0 | +0 | +0 | +2 |
Snake Style Kung Fu (3)
This animal system focuses on attacks to the vulnerable pressure points of the human body. The movements are often low to the ground and use the tips of the fingers in the strikes.
Primary Attack: Strike
Primary Defense: Dodge
Special Bonuses: Opponent receives a -2 to Stun Saves
Weapons: Dagger
| Strike | Kick | Block/Parry | Dodge | Throw | Hold | Escape | Choke | Sweep | Grapple |
| +2 | +0 | +0 | +2 | +0 | +2 | +0 | +3 | +0 | +2 |
Tiger Style Kung Fu (2)
Tiger Style Kung Fu is one of many systems in Kung Fu that are based upon the movements of an animal. Tiger style relies upon fierce, overpowering attacks to defeat an opponent. This form also utilizes a raking strike which is often called the 'Tiger's Claws', due to the gouges left behind.
Primary Attack: Strike
Primary Defense: Block
Special Bonuses: +2 to Damage on Strikes
Weapons: Claws (Bagh Nakh / Teko)
| Strike | Kick | Block/Parry | Dodge | Throw | Hold | Escape | Choke | Sweep | Grapple |
| +3 | +1 | +2 | +1 | +0 | +0 | +0 | +0 | +0 | +0 |
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