Leveling Up

In the world of Obscured, survival is a grueling climb. As Hunters face the horrors of the unknown, they learn, adapt, and grow stronger. This growth is represented through experience points (XP), a numerical measure of a Hunter's progress. Hunters earn XP by overcoming challenges, solving mysteries, and surviving encounters with the supernatural. Accumulating enough XP leads to a "level up," a significant milestone in a Hunter's journey.

The Leveling Process

The leveling process in Obscured is straightforward:

1. Accumulate XP: Hunters earn XP through their adventures and challenges.
2. Reach XP Threshold: Once a Hunter reaches the XP threshold for the next level (see the Reference table below), they level up.
3. Reset XP: Upon leveling up, the Hunter's XP count resets to zero.
4. Gain Benefits: The Hunter gains various benefits, detailed below.
5. Maximum Level: The maximum level a Hunter can achieve is 18.

Benefits of Leveling Up

Each level-up provides different benefits that enhance a Hunter's capabilities:

• Attribute Improvement: Increase two attributes by 1 point each. This can help Hunters specialize in certain areas or shore up weaknesses.
• Ability Unlock: Gain access to new abilities from the chosen archetype. These abilities provide new tactical options, enhance existing strengths, or offer utility in and out of combat.
• Health Increase: Increase maximum Hit Points (HP) at every level, making Hunters more resilient against dangers.

Choosing Improvements

When leveling up and choosing Attribute Improvements, consider your character's role, playstyle, and the challenges they expect to face. Examples include:

• Ranged Hunter: Prioritize Dexterity for shooting accuracy and Awareness to detect threats.
• Tactician: Focus on Intellect for problem-solving skills and Charm for leadership abilities.
• Brawler: Choose Strength and Durability to excel in close combat and withstand more damage.

When gaining new abilities, think about how they complement existing capabilities and strategies.

Example

Overseer: "As the dust settles and the echo of the banshee's final wail fades, you each gain 3000 XP."

David: "Wait, that pushes me over the top! Theodore levels up to Level 4!"

Overseer: "Congratulations! At Level 4, Theodore gains an Attribute Improvement. Given his studious nature and silver tongue, you mentioned that you wanted to increase his Intellect and Charm by 1. He also gets an increase to his max HP."

David: "Perfect! With his enhanced mental prowess and persuasive skills, Theodore will be even better at unearthing ancient secrets and talking his way out of trouble."

Amy: "Just don't forget about the HP boost. We need you alive to put those new attributes to use!"

Reference Table

Level	XP Required	Benefits
1	225	Starting level
2	1,270	Attribute Improvement, HP increase
3	3,500	Ability Unlock, HP increase
4	7,200	Attribute Improvement, HP increase
5	12,550	Ability Unlock, HP increase
6	19,800	Attribute Improvement, HP increase
7	29,100	HP increase
8	40,700	Attribute Improvement, Ability Unlock, HP increase
9	54,600	HP increase
10	71,100	Attribute Improvement, HP increase
11	90,200	HP increase
12	112,200	Attribute Improvement, Ability Unlock, HP increase
13	137,000	HP increase
14	165,000	Attribute Improvement, HP increase
15	195,000	HP increase
16	230,000	Attribute Improvement, Ability Unlock, HP increase
17	265,000	HP increase
18	MAX	Double Attribute Improvement, HP increase

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Overseers, remember that leveling up is a significant moment for players to shape their Hunters' growth. Encourage them to think about their choices in the context of their character's story, the party's needs, and the challenges that lie ahead. While you can offer guidance, let the players ultimately decide their Hunters' path.