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Intelligence (Mage: The Ascension 20th Anniversary)

Attributes

Definition

Intelligence measures a mage's capacity for reasoning, memory, analysis, and complex thought. For Awakened characters, Intelligence represents the raw cognitive power that lets them comprehend the Tapestry's patterns, unravel ancient grimoires, and devise new applications of Sphere magick. Many Traditions prize Intelligence as the foundation of magical understanding. In M20, Intelligence drives research, magical theory, and problem-solving. Understanding why a Paradox backlash occurred, deciphering a Technocracy encryption scheme, designing a new Etherite device, or unraveling the metaphysical implications of a Sphere combination all depend on Intelligence. The Awakened world is complex, and raw brainpower helps mages navigate its intricacies.

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How it works

**Key Uses**: - Research and academic knowledge - Problem-solving and logical deduction - Magical theory and understanding - Technology and science applications **Special Rules**: Intelligence + Occult for magical lore and theory. Intelligence + Academics for research. Intelligence + Science or Technology for technical applications. Many extended research actions use Intelligence as the primary Attribute, making it essential for mages who need to learn and adapt.

Tips

**Build Advice**: Essential for research-focused mages and anyone who needs deep magical understanding. If your mage will spend time studying grimoires, building devices, or analyzing magical phenomena, prioritize Intelligence. **Tradition Synergies**: Order of Hermes place Intelligence at the center of their magical practice. Sons of Ether need it for their scientific paradigm. Virtual Adepts require analytical minds for programming and data analysis. **Character Concepts**: Hermetic scholar, Etherite inventor, Virtual Adept programmer, Celestial Chorus theologian, Verbena lore-keeper.

Frequently asked questions

Is Intelligence the most important Attribute for mages?

It depends on the mage. Intelligence is critical for research and understanding, but magick rolls in M20 use Arete, not Intelligence. A street-smart Hollow One with high Wits may outperform a brilliant but oblivious Hermetic in practical situations.

Does Intelligence affect spellcasting?

Not directly. Arete governs all magick rolls. However, Intelligence affects a mage's ability to research new rotes, understand magical theory, and devise creative applications of their Spheres. It is the Attribute of magical preparation, not execution.

Further Reading

Order of HermesSons of EtherAll Mage M20 Attributes
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