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====== Welcome to trace/ALTER ======

traceALTER invites players into a world where mystical forces, factions, and powerful entities coexist and vie for dominance. While some characters are [[tracers|Tracers]] — individuals born with the rare ability to harness [[trace-magick|TRACE]] energy — many others, both ordinary and exceptional, also populate this world, contributing to the struggle for balance in unique ways. This guide serves as a central hub for exploring the lore, mechanics, and diverse characters of traceALTER, making it an ideal starting point for new and returning players.

===== Game Overview =====

In traceALTER, players may assume the roles of Tracers or choose other paths, like a [[replicants|Replicant]] — synthetic humans built by the [[ascension-group|Ascension Group]] who, despite lacking TRACE abilities, possess enhanced physical and cognitive capabilities. Alternatively, players might join The Nameless, a faction of rogue [[tracers|Tracers]] who oppose the Tracer Order, or even find themselves as civilians affected by the conflicts that unfold in Cascade City and beyond.

===== Key Player Paths and Roles =====

==== Tracers and TRACE Sensitives ====

[[tracers|Tracers]] are TRACE-sensitive humans capable of wielding magick to combat threats like [[alters|ALTERs]]. They undergo rigorous training and, upon passing The Trials, may be Soulbound to a TRACE-Weapon — a weapon tied to their very soul. Tracers vary in skill and purpose, from researchers and archivists to the elite Wardens.
TRACE Sensitives include those with latent abilities who may not become full-fledged Tracers but who can still tap into limited TRACE magick. They may work alongside the Tracer Order or pursue independent paths.
For more on the Tracer Order and TRACE training, explore [[the-tracer-order|Tracer Order]] and [[trace-magick|TRACE Magick]].

==== Replicants and Non-Sensitives ====

[[replicants|Replicants]] are highly advanced synthetic humans created by the Ascension Group. Built for various roles, from labor to security, they are physically stronger and faster than humans but lack any connection to [[trace-magick|TRACE]]. Some Replicants, following an event known as [[the-awakening|The Awakening]], have gained self-awareness and now navigate the human world in secret.
Non-Sensitives are ordinary humans who, while unable to use TRACE magick, can still influence the world’s conflicts. Some join the [[ascension-group|Ascension Group]] or even align with the Tracers, working as allies, researchers, or strategists.
More details are available on [[ascension-group|The Ascension Group]] and [[replicants|Replicants]].

==== The Nameless and Other Factions ====

[[nameless|The Nameless]] are former Tracers who rejected the Order’s methods, developing their own magickal practice called Resolution to absorb energy directly. Often considered radicals, they view their mission as a burden they must bear, even as they stand against the Tracer Order.
Other factions like The Guardians and The Enlightened operate outside the Tracer Order’s direct influence, each contributing to the world's balance and sometimes clashing with the main [[factions]].

===== Game Mechanics =====
    * **[[stats|Stats]]**
    * **[[stats#stat_points|Stat points]]**
==== Phases of Combat ====

* **Movement Phase:** All characters, regardless of role, select movement within their range.
  * **Action Phase:** Choose between physical and TRACE-based attacks or unique abilities.
  * **Bonus Action Phase:** Execute dodge moves or other tactical actions to counteract enemy actions.

==== Character Stats and Skills ====

Stats such as Health, TRACE, Strength, Intellect, Speed, and Agility determine the effectiveness of various actions and abilities.
Abilities and Skills vary based on role and faction, with each path having unique abilities to unlock and enhance over time.
For further information on combat and abilities, see [[combat|Combat Mechanics]] and [[abilities|Abilities and Skills]].

===== World =====

The universe of traceALTER is filled with locations, artifacts, and factions that shape the ongoing conflict:
  * **[[Outskirts|Outskirts]]:** 
  * **[[cascade-city|Cascade City]]:** A sprawling metropolis and technological hub, under the watch of the Ascension Group.
  * **[[aethergarde-academy|Aethergarde Academy]]:** A secluded and ancient training ground for Tracers, hiding beneath the veil of a regular everyday school, where TRACE-sensitive students are molded into powerful defenders.
  * **[[the-void|The Void]]:** A dark and shifting dimension where ALTERs and lost souls dwell, accessible only by those powerful or desperate enough to venture there.

Dive deeper into the history and lore in [[locations|Locations]].

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