Prototype

A success – or critical failure – on
the Concept roll gives the inventor a
theory he can test in the laboratory.
The next step is to construct a proto-
type (working model). This requires a
second roll against invention skill. The
GM makes this “Prototype roll” in
secret.
Modifiers: All modifiers listed for
Concept rolls; +1 per assistant with
skill 20+ in one of the skills required
for the invention, to a maximum of +4;
-1 to -10 (GM’s discretion) if the inven-
tor must make do with anything less
than the most advanced tools and
facilities for his TL.
On a success, the inventor proves
his theory and creates a prototype. On
a failure, he may try again, provided
he has the time and money (see
below). On a critical failure, an explo-
sion or accident occurs. This inflicts at
least 2d damage to the inventor and
each assistant – and destroys the facil-
ities, which must be rebuilt at full cost
before making another attempt.
If the inventor was working with a
flawed theory, he will never create a
working prototype (this is why the GM
rolls in secret!), but a critical success
on the Prototype roll lets him realize
that his theory was bad.