The Foot Prints Mechanic

A mechanic used so far in The Exceptionals and Cyberpunk RED games.

An investigation mechanic, when investigating players have time working against them, as usual, and now also have a limited action and investigation economy.

1. The team is issued by the GM a number of “Foot Steps.”

2. Each action they take costs one or more “Foot Steps.” This can include reading a document, looking at something enough to require a check, flicking on a light switch, searching a computer.

3. Whenever a member of the team transitions between two areas that could be closed off (eg; to another room separated by a door, even if the door is open) it costs 1 “Foot Step.” If multiple members of the team transition from one area they have in common to another area also in common at the same time, it still only costs 1 “Foot Step.” This means that if multiple members of a party are in the same room, and all move to another room together (From Room A to Room B) And none are going to a different room than the others, then the cost is 1 “Foot Step,” If they are moving to different rooms, the cost is applied separately.

4. There is no difference as far as “Foot Steps” are concerned between a quick task and a long task.

5. Having remaining “Foot Steps” does not mean the team cannot deplete their time. If the Police are five minutes away, they are five minutes away, “Foot Steps” can only suspend the narrative time flow for so much.

6. When they run out of foot steps, a scene is triggered that concludes the investigation, this may include combat or destruction of the area.