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Pilot (Call of Cthulhu 7th Edition)

Skills

Definition

Pilot is a specialization skill covering the operation of aircraft, boats, and other specialized vehicles beyond standard automobiles. Each specialty—such as Pilot (Aircraft), Pilot (Boat), or Pilot (Submarine)—represents proficiency with a specific vehicle type. In Call of Cthulhu's 1920s setting, aviation is in its adventurous infancy and sea travel is the primary means of intercontinental transport. Pilot (Boat) is common among coastal and riverside communities, while Pilot (Aircraft) is rare and glamorous—barnstormers and mail pilots are the heroes of the age. These skills become essential when investigations take you across oceans, along rivers, to remote islands, or into aerial pursuits.

How it works

**Base Value**: 1% **Key Uses**: - Operating aircraft (biplanes, seaplanes) - Sailing and navigating boats and ships - Handling vessels in dangerous conditions - Performing pursuit and evasion maneuvers **Special Rules**: Each vehicle type is a separate specialty. Normal operation doesn't require rolls—rolls are for dangerous conditions, combat, or precision maneuvers. Weather, visibility, and mechanical condition all affect difficulty.

Tips

**Build Advice**: Take Pilot only if your character's background supports it. Pilot (Boat) is useful for coastal campaigns; Pilot (Aircraft) for globe-trotting adventures. **Occupation Synergies**: Pairs with Navigate for finding your way, Mechanical Repair for field repairs, and Spot Hidden for spotting landmarks or hazards. **Character Concepts**: Barnstormer pilot, navy veteran, fisherman, smuggler, coast guard, explorer.

Frequently asked questions

Which Pilot specialty is most useful?

Pilot (Boat) comes up most often since 1920s travel frequently involves water. Pilot (Aircraft) is rarer but dramatic when it matters. Choose based on your campaign's likely travel needs.

Can I fly a plane with no Pilot skill?

At 1% base, it's technically possible but extremely dangerous. Even taking off and landing safely in good conditions would be an Extreme difficulty roll. In any stress, untrained pilots almost certainly crash.