Martial Arts for T4

 

T4 is a simple game, and I think that even when we try to add diversity to the game we must strive not to bog the system down with unnecessary complications.
Keeping this in mind, I'd like to differentiate the game a little. In real life, the various systems of unarmed combat tend to focus on a definite set of techniques. I propose to let the player choose an abstract "style" which gives a bonus to some kind of maneuvers.
In order to preserve play balance the system must have some drawbacks; if this was not the case, everybody would automatically choose the "best" style and nobody would choose straight Brawling any more.

During chargen, whenever the character gets a level in Brawling he may decide which of the three main styles he wants to study.

Unarmed Combat:
Generic unarmed combat style, pragmatic and without a particular focus. It works exactly like Brawling.
Soft Style:
Similar to Judo or Aikido. These types of MA favors defense and the use of locks/throws instead of direct strikes. This style bestows a +1 bonus when using grapples and throws, and gives a -1 for punching and kicking. It gives an additional +1 bonus when used to defend against unarmed attacks (i.e. gives an additional -1 to the attacker).
Example: A Judo-3 character uses Dex+2 for strikes and Dex (or Str) +4 for Grapple/Throw. Opponents using unarmed attacks against the character will suffer a -4 negative DM.
Hard Style:
Similar to Karate. It adds +1 modifier to skill and a +1 damage bonus when Punching and Kicking only. Apply a -1 penalty when using throws and grapple.
Example: A Karate-2 character uses Dex+1 for throws and grappling attacks, Dex+3 for punches and kicks. If the blow connects, s/he will inflict 1D6+1 damage.

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