Step-by-step guide

Mage: The Ascension 20th Anniversary Character Creation

Learn how to create a Mage: The Ascension 20th Anniversary character. Use this guide as a checklist, then build your character in RPG Stack.

Steps

  1. Choose concept, tradition/faction, nature, demeanor, essence, cabal affiliation if any.
  2. Assign Attributes: 7/5/3 across Physical, Social, Mental. Max 4 at creation (5 with Freebies).
  3. Assign Abilities (Skills): 13/9/5 across Talents, Skills, Knowledges. Max 3 at creation (4 with Freebies).
  4. Assign Advantages: 7 Background dots (max 3 per Background at creation).
  5. Select Spheres: 6 dots total (max 3 in any one Sphere at creation).
  6. Set Arete: 1 dot at creation (may raise to 3 with Freebies).
  7. Determine Willpower = highest of Courage + modifications (often 5+).
  8. Determine Quintessence and Paradox pool.
  9. Record Resonance traits if any.
  10. Spend Freebie Points (15 by default): Attributes (5), Abilities (2), Backgrounds (1), Spheres (7), Arete (4), Willpower (1).
Online character sheet
Manage the final sheet digitally.
Glossary
Look up system terms and mechanics quickly.

Build it in RPG Stack

Create a free account to save your character and update it across sessions.