HorizonVirtual:Special Abilities

Classes without the capability to execute rewrites can acquire abilities that accomplish the same effect as a given rewrite (the Antiviral is particularly known for this).

Rewrite-Like Abilities: Usually, a rewrite-like ability works just like the rewrite of that name. A few rewrite-like abilities are unique; these are explained in the text where they are described.

A rewrite-like ability has no verbal, somatic, or material component, nor does it require a focus or have an XP cost. The user activates it mentally. Armor never affects a rewrite-like ability’s use, even if the ability resembles an arcane rewrite with a somatic component.

A rewrite-like ability has an executing time of 1 standard action unless noted otherwise in the ability or rewrite description. In all other ways, a rewrite-like ability functions just like a rewrite.

Rewrite-like abilities are subject to rewrite resistance and to being undone by undo rewrite. They do not function in areas where rewriting is suppressed or negated. Rewrite-like abilities cannot be used to counterwrite, nor can they be counterwritten.

Some programs are actually thinkers of a sort. They execute arcane rewrites as thinkers do, using components when required. In fact, an individual program could have some rewrite-like abilities and also execute other rewrites as a thinker.

Supernatural Abilities: These abilities cannot be disrupted in combat, as rewrites can, and they generally do not provoke attacks of opportunity. Supernatural abilities are not subject to rewrite resistance, counterwrites, or to being undone by undo rewrite, and do not function in areas where rewriting is suppressed or negated.

Extraordinary Abilities: These abilities cannot be disrupted in combat, as rewrites can, and they generally do not provoke attacks of opportunity. Effects or areas that negate or disrupt rewriting have no effect on extraordinary abilities. They are not subject to undoing, and they function normally in an antirewriting field. Indeed, extraordinary abilities do not qualify as rewriting, as they are usually part of the program’s original, core function and not a change of coding.

Natural Abilities: This category includes abilities a program has because of its physical nature. Natural abilities are those not otherwise designated as extraordinary, supernatural, or rewrite-like.