Vehicles & Operations

Vehicles are the lifeline of the post-apocalyptic world. Settlements trade across hundreds of miles of blasted wasteland, patrols protect borders from mutant incursions, and salvage crews delve into pre-war ruins that no one can reach on foot. A party without vehicles is a party that walks — and in the Ashfall, walking is dying slowly.

This chapter covers everything from driving a jury-rigged motorcycle through a raider ambush to commanding a crew aboard a pre-war warship. Vehicle combat uses the same 3-action economy as personal combat, with each crew member contributing through their specialized role.

Vehicle Fundamentals

Size Classes

Every vehicle has a size class that determines its base statistics, crew capacity, station layout, module slots, and compartment capacity.

Speed is measured per Drive action (equivalent to a creature's Stride). Vehicles can take multiple Drive actions per round if the Pilot spends actions on them.

Stations are dedicated crew positions — physical consoles, seats, or operating positions where a crew member performs a specific role (Pilot, Navigator, Gunner, etc.). Each station can be occupied by one crew member. See Crew Stations below for station layouts by size.

Modules are installable hardware upgrades — weapons, armor plating, engines, sensors, and other equipment. Module slots are separate from stations and compartments.

Compartments are interior rooms that define the vehicle's internal layout. Only Medium and larger vehicles have space for compartments. See Compartments below.

Passengers are characters aboard who don't occupy a station. They can use personal weapons, cast spells, or assist crew, but cannot perform station actions. Passenger capacity is in addition to station crew.

Crew operating the vehicle equals the number of manned stations. A vehicle can operate with fewer crew than stations, but unmanned stations cannot contribute actions. A solo operator of a Medium+ vehicle can only fill one role per round.

Vehicle Tiers

Vehicle quality overlays the existing Gear Tier system. Tier affects HP, module quality, and availability.

Calculating Vehicle HP: Base HP × Tier Multiplier. Example: A Tier 3 Medium vehicle has 80 × 1.5 = 120 HP.

Bonus Module Slots: Tier 3+ vehicles have additional module slots above the base for their size class.

Cost Multiplier: Applied to the frame base cost. A Tier 1 Light frame costs 500 cr; a Tier 3 Light frame costs 2,000 cr.

Vehicle Statistics Block

Every vehicle has a stat block:

SALVAGE RUNNER (Light Vehicle, Tier 2)
HP: 50 (40 × 1.25)    DV: 14 (13 base + 1 armor module)
Speed: 50 ft           Passengers: 0
Stations: 2 (Pilot, Gunner)
Modules: 2 (Reinforced Plating, Mounted MG)
Compartments: —
Weapons: Mounted Machine Gun (2d8, range 100/300)
Systems: Engine (Operational), Weapons (Operational)
Fuel: 8 hours standard operation
CR Value: 3

IRON PILGRIM (Heavy Vehicle, Tier 3)
HP: 225 (150 × 1.5)   DV: 18 (15 base + 3 armor)
Speed: 30 ft           Passengers: 12
Stations: 5 (Pilot, Navigator, Gunner ×2, Engineer)
Modules: 7 (Composite Armor, Turret MG ×2, Performance Engine,
         Sensor Array, Stabilization System, Fire Suppression)
Compartments: 3 (Crew Quarters, Medical Bay, Cargo Hold)
Weapons: 2× Turret MG (2d8, range 100/300)
Systems: Engine (Operational), Weapons (Operational),
         Sensors (Operational), Hull (Operational)
Fuel: 8 hours standard operation
CR Value: 16

Crew Roles

In vehicle combat, each crew member fills a role that determines what actions they can take. Every role uses the full 3-action economy — crew members are never idle.

Pilot (Piloting Skill)

The Pilot controls movement and positioning. Only one character can be the active Pilot at a time.

Pilot Bonus: A Pilot with Piloting proficiency adds their proficiency bonus to the vehicle's DV against ramming attacks.

See Skills — Piloting for full descriptions, proficiency unlocks, and expertise unlocks.

Gunner (Weapon Systems Skill)

The Gunner operates vehicle-mounted weapons. Multiple Gunners can operate on vehicles with multiple weapon mounts.

Weapon Mounting: Each weapon module occupies 1 module slot. Turret-mounted weapons can fire in any direction. Fixed weapons can only fire in the vehicle's facing arc (front 90°).

See Skills — Weapon Systems for full descriptions, proficiency unlocks, and expertise unlocks.

Engineer (Engineering Skill)

The Engineer maintains systems, routes power, and performs field repairs. Critical for sustained engagements.

System Priority: When multiple systems are damaged, the Engineer must choose which to restore first. A smart Engineer prioritizes the system most critical to the current situation — weapons when closing on an enemy, engine when fleeing.

See Skills — Engineering for full descriptions, proficiency unlocks, and expertise unlocks.

Commander (Tactics or Persuasion Skill)

The Commander coordinates the crew, issues orders, and provides tactical advantage. Not every vehicle needs a Commander — but crewed vehicles benefit enormously from one.

Commander Skill: Use Tactics (advanced skill) if available; otherwise use Persuasion or Intimidation for the social aspects of command. Tactics gives access to Tactical Assessment at reduced DC (−2).

Solo Operators: A character operating a vehicle alone fills the Pilot role by default and can use one action per turn on a different role's action (e.g., firing a weapon). They cannot Issue Orders to themselves.

Navigator (Navigation Skill)

The Navigator handles route planning, sensor operation, and electronic countermeasures. On smaller vehicles, the Pilot handles navigation — but on Medium+ vehicles operating in unfamiliar territory, open water, or space, a dedicated Navigator is the difference between arriving alive and drifting off course into a rad storm.

Why Navigators Matter: Without a Navigator, the Pilot makes Navigation checks at disadvantage when operating in poor visibility, unfamiliar territory, or three-dimensional environments (underwater, airborne, space). A Pilot can drive — a Navigator ensures you end up where you intended.

Narrative Role: The Navigator is the crew's eyes beyond the windshield. They're the one who spots the raider ambush on the horizon before it happens, who picks up the distress signal bleeding through static, who charts a safe path through the irradiated canyon when the old highway has collapsed. In settlements, the Navigator is the one who knows the trade routes, the safe passages, and which roads belong to which faction.

See Skills — Navigation for full descriptions, proficiency unlocks, and expertise unlocks.

Communications Officer (Technology or Persuasion Skill)

The Communications Officer manages information flow — intercepting enemy transmissions, coordinating with allies, jamming hostile communications, and broadcasting on behalf of the crew. On smaller vehicles, the Navigator or Commander handles comms. On Heavy+ vehicles operating in contested territory, a dedicated Comms Officer provides a decisive tactical edge.

Communications Skill: Use Technology for the technical aspects (Intercept, Jam, Spoof) or Persuasion for the social aspects (Broadcast, Hail, Distress Call). A character proficient in both can use whichever is higher for any Comms action.

Narrative Role: The Comms Officer is the voice of the ship. They negotiate passage at faction checkpoints, bluff past pirate patrols, call in artillery strikes from allied positions, and listen to the chatter of the wasteland. When the party's dropship enters contested airspace, the Comms Officer is the one talking them through — or talking their way out.

Crew Stations

Stations are the physical positions inside a vehicle where crew members operate. Each station has a console, seat, or operating position designed for a specific role. The number of stations determines how many crew members can contribute actions simultaneously.

Station Layout by Size

Fixed Stations come built into every vehicle of that size. They are part of the frame and cannot be removed.

Flexible Slots can be assigned to any role during vehicle construction or refit. Choose one station type (Gunner, Engineer, Commander, Navigator, or Communications) for each flexible slot. Reassigning a flexible station requires a short rest and an Engineering DC 14 check — it involves rewiring consoles and rerouting control systems.

Station Descriptions

Each station is a physical space inside the vehicle:

• Pilot Station: The cockpit or driver's seat. Includes steering controls, throttle, and a forward viewport or display. Always located at the front of the vehicle.
• Navigator Station: A console with sensor displays, maps, and targeting data. Usually positioned beside or behind the Pilot. Requires a Sensor Array or Advanced Sensors module to function at full capacity; without sensors, Navigation checks are made at −2.
• Gunner Station: A weapon mount with targeting controls. Position depends on weapon type — turrets are topside, fixed weapons are forward-facing, broadside mounts are along the hull. Each Gunner station controls one weapon mount.
• Engineer Station: Access panels, power distribution controls, and diagnostic displays. Usually located amidships near the engine or reactor. The Engineer doesn't need line of sight to the outside — they're watching system readouts.
• Commander Station: An elevated or central position with visibility of all other stations and a tactical display. On smaller vehicles, this might be a seat with a radio. On a warship, it's the bridge command chair.
• Communications Station: A dedicated comms console with transmission/reception equipment, encryption hardware, and signal processing displays. Requires a Communications Suite or Encrypted Comms module to function; without one, the Comms Officer can only Hail and Broadcast at short range (500 ft).

Unmanned Stations

A station without a crew member is inactive — it contributes nothing. There is no autopilot for most stations (exception: a CL 2+ autonomous AI can fill one station at its skill bonus; see AI & Cognitive Levels).

Skeleton Crew: A vehicle can operate with just a Pilot, but at significant cost:

• No Navigator: Disadvantage on Navigation checks; no sensor sweeps, no countermeasures
• No Gunner: Weapons are silent. The Pilot can fire one fixed weapon per round using 1 action, but at disadvantage
• No Engineer: No damage control, no rerouting power, no field repairs. The vehicle fights with what it has
• No Commander: No coordination bonuses, no rallying. Each crew member fights alone
• No Communications: No jamming, no intercepts, no coordination with allies beyond shouting distance

Adding Extra Stations

Additional stations beyond the default layout can be installed as modifications:

Extra stations allow more crew to contribute but consume module slots. A Heavy vehicle could sacrifice two module slots to add a second Gunner and a Communications station, bringing its total crew to 7.

Compartments

Compartments are interior rooms and spaces within a vehicle's hull. They define what a vehicle can do beyond combat — where the crew sleeps, where the wounded are treated, where cargo is stored, where plans are made.

Only Medium and larger vehicles have compartments. Personal and Light vehicles are too small for dedicated interior spaces.

Compartment Slots by Size

Tier 4+ vehicles gain +1 compartment slot (better engineering allows more efficient use of interior volume).

Compartment Types

Each compartment occupies 1 compartment slot unless noted.

Cargo Hold

Cost: 500 cr | Slot: 1

A reinforced storage bay for supplies, loot, trade goods, or salvage.

• Store up to 2,000 lbs of cargo or one vehicle of a smaller size class (e.g., a motorcycle in a truck's cargo hold)
• Contents are secured against vehicle maneuvers (no loose crates flying around during combat)
• Can be converted to an open bay for vehicle loading/unloading 1 Action (requires to open/close cargo doors)

Narrative Use: The cargo hold is what makes a vehicle a trader's vehicle. Without one, you can carry what fits in your lap. A party with a cargo hold can run supply missions, transport refugees, haul salvage from deep ruin dives, or smuggle contraband past faction checkpoints. The hold's contents tell the story of the crew — medical supplies for a settlement in need, or crates of weapons bound for the black market.

Crew Quarters

Cost: 400 cr | Slot: 1

Bunks, storage lockers, and basic living space for up to 4 crew members.

• Crew can take short rests aboard the vehicle (normally requires a safe, stable location)
• Characters resting in crew quarters recover Hit Dice as normal
• Includes personal storage for each occupant (50 lbs per person)
• If the vehicle has a Galley compartment, crew quarters occupants gain its benefits automatically

Narrative Use: Crew quarters transform a vehicle from a transport into a home. The crew's quarters are where bonds form — where the Pilot and the Engineer argue over engine tuning, where the Medic tends to wounds after a fight, where the Commander reviews maps by lamplight. Long-haul missions across the wasteland are only possible if the crew can sleep aboard. Without quarters, the crew must find shelter every night — and in the Ashfall, safe shelter is never guaranteed.

Medical Bay

Cost: 1,500 cr | Slot: 1

A treatment room with surgical table, basic medical equipment, and pharmaceutical storage.

• Allows Field Surgery at normal DC (no "unstable environment" penalty)
• Counts as a stable environment for all medical checks
• Stores up to 20 uses of medical supplies (stims, kits, pharmaceuticals)
• A Medic operating from a Medical Bay gains +2 to Medicine checks

Narrative Use: A medical bay turns the vehicle into a mobile hospital. The party can stabilize the dying, perform surgery mid-transit, and treat injuries without stopping for a settlement. In campaigns focused on aiding remote communities, a medical bay is as important as weapons — it's the reason desperate settlements send distress calls to your crew instead of someone else.

Workshop

Cost: 2,000 cr | Slot: 1

A workbench, tool storage, and fabrication space for mechanical and technical work.

• Allows crafting and vehicle repairs at −2 DC
• Field Modifications (module swaps) can be performed here without needing a settlement workshop
• Provides the "appropriate tools" requirement for Tier 1-3 crafting checks
• Engineer gains +2 to Engineering checks for repairs performed in the workshop

Narrative Use: The workshop is where the Technician disappears for hours, emerging with a rebuilt weapon or a repaired module that shouldn't work but does. It's where salvaged alien tech gets disassembled and studied, where custom ammunition is loaded, where the party's gear is maintained between settlements. A crew with a workshop is self-sufficient — they don't need a settlement's mechanics, because they are the mechanics.

Armory

Cost: 800 cr | Slot: 1

A secured weapons locker and ammunition storage facility.

• Store weapons and ammunition for up to 8 crew members in organized, quick-access racks
Quick Draw: Any character can draw a weapon stored in the armory as a free action when starting combat aboard the vehicle 1 Action (normally)
• Ammunition stored here is protected from environmental damage (fire, water, impacts)
• Includes a basic cleaning and maintenance station (+1 to weapon repair checks)

Narrative Use: The armory is the crew's teeth. It's where the party's arsenal lives — and its contents define what kind of crew this is. A rack of hunting rifles and shotguns says "frontier patrol." Plasma weapons and military ordnance says "faction strike team." An armory full of alien tech says "we've been places nobody else has come back from."

Brig

Cost: 600 cr | Slot: 1

A reinforced holding cell for prisoners or dangerous cargo.

• Hold up to 4 Medium-sized prisoners in secured cells
• Reinforced walls and locked door — DC 22 to break out (MIG check) or pick the lock (Sleight of Hand)
• Interior is isolated from vehicle systems — prisoners cannot access controls or sabotage the vehicle
• Includes basic monitoring (camera or viewport)

Narrative Use: Not every problem ends with a bullet. The brig lets the party take prisoners — raiders for interrogation, war criminals for faction bounties, rescued captives who can't be trusted yet. It raises moral questions: how long do you hold someone? What do you do when food runs low? The brig forces the party to confront what they do with the people they defeat.

War Room

Cost: 1,200 cr | Slot: 1

A tactical planning space with maps, displays, and briefing area.

• Commander gains +2 to Tactics checks made in the War Room
• Before combat, the crew can spend 10 minutes planning. All party members gain +1 to initiative for the next encounter
• Provides maps and intelligence displays — +2 to Navigation checks for route planning
• Can display sensor data from the Navigator's console (requires Sensor Array module)

Narrative Use: The war room is where missions begin. The Commander pins a map to the wall, marks the target, outlines the plan. The crew debates approach angles, escape routes, contingencies. It's the space where a group of survivors becomes a unit — where strategy replaces desperation. For GM purposes, the war room is the natural setting for mission briefings, intel analysis, and post-action debriefs.

Galley

Cost: 300 cr | Slot: 1

A kitchen and mess area for food preparation and crew meals.

• Prepare rations from raw supplies (extends food supplies by 50%)
• Well-Fed Bonus: Crew who eat a prepared meal gain +1 to saves against morale effects and fear for 8 hours
• Can store 2 weeks of food supplies for 4 crew members
• Includes water purification (removes common contaminants, not radiation)

Narrative Use: The galley is the heart of any crewed vehicle. It's where the crew gathers when not on duty, where arguments start and friendships solidify. A shared meal is the oldest form of unit cohesion. The galley also matters mechanically for long expeditions — without one, the crew eats cold rations and morale suffers. With one, someone cooks, and the crew fights harder because they have something worth coming back to.

Science Lab

Cost: 2,500 cr | Slot: 1

A research station with analysis equipment, sample storage, and data terminals.

• Perform Science and Xenology checks at −2 DC
• Analyze biological, chemical, and technological samples in the field (no settlement lab required)
• Store up to 20 samples in climate-controlled containers
• A character with the Pharmacology advanced skill can craft stimulants and antidotes here

Narrative Use: The science lab turns the vehicle into an exploration vessel. Alien samples can be studied mid-transit, mysterious substances analyzed before anyone touches them, environmental hazards identified before the crew walks into them. In campaigns involving alien contact, pre-war research sites, or plague outbreaks, the science lab is essential infrastructure.

Hangar Bay

Cost: 5,000 cr | Slots: 2 (occupies two compartment slots)

A vehicle bay for launching and recovering smaller craft or drones.

• Store and deploy up to 2 Light vehicles or 4 drones (Personal size)
• Launch or recover one craft per round 1 Action (by the Pilot or deck crew)
• Includes basic fuel and repair supplies for stored vehicles (+2 to repairs on stored vehicles)
• Hangar doors can be sealed for atmospheric integrity (space/underwater operations)

Narrative Use: A hangar bay turns a vehicle into a carrier — a mobile base that projects force beyond its own hull. Scout craft launch from the hangar for recon runs. Combat drones deploy for perimeter defense. Damaged vehicles dock for emergency repairs. The hangar bay is what separates a large vehicle from a flagship.

Shield Generator Room

Cost: 4,000 cr | Slot: 1

A dedicated power facility housing an energy barrier generator.

• Vehicle gains temporary HP equal to 25% of its maximum HP
• Shield temp HP regenerates fully after a short rest
• When shield temp HP reaches 0, the generator must recharge (unavailable for 1d4 rounds, then restores at 25% per round)
• An Engineer stationed aboard gains advantage on Reroute Power checks involving the shield

Narrative Use: The shield generator is the mark of a vessel built for war. Its hum is audible throughout the vehicle — a constant reminder that something stands between the crew and annihilation. When the shields go down, the crew knows they're one volley from hull breach. When the Engineer gets them back online, that's a cheer-worthy moment.

Engine Room

Cost: 3,000 cr | Slot: 1

A dedicated engineering space surrounding the vehicle's primary power plant.

• Engineer gains advantage on all Engineering checks while stationed here
• Overclock Engine has no risk of system damage when performed from the engine room
• Emergency Repair restores 3d10 + INT HP instead of 2d10 + INT
• Provides direct access to all vehicle systems for rapid Damage Control (−2 DC to Damage Control checks)

Narrative Use: The engine room is the Engineer's domain — loud, hot, and dangerous. It's the beating heart of the vehicle, and the Engineer who works here knows every pipe, every junction, every warning light by sound and feel. When the vehicle takes critical damage, the engine room is where the miracle happens — or where the Engineer goes down with the ship.

Building a Vehicle Interior

When designing a vehicle, assign compartments based on the crew's mission and playstyle:

Combat Vessel: Engine Room, Armory, Shield Generator Room Exploration Ship: Science Lab, Medical Bay, Crew Quarters Trade Hauler: Cargo Hold ×2 (or ×3 on Massive), Crew Quarters, Galley Mobile Base: Crew Quarters, Workshop, Medical Bay, War Room, Galley Carrier: Hangar Bay (2 slots), Workshop, Crew Quarters

Compartments can be swapped during a Long Rest at a settlement with appropriate facilities. Swapping costs 50% of the new compartment's price (representing labor and structural modification). The old compartment's fixtures are salvaged for 25% of their original cost.

Vehicle Combat

Vehicle combat uses the same 3-action economy as personal combat but adds crew coordination, system management, and environmental interaction. The goal is simple: every crew member makes meaningful choices every round. Nobody sits idle. Nobody repeats the same check. The vehicle is a shared weapon that rewards teamwork.

Initiative

• Each crew member rolls initiative individually: 1d20 + AGI modifier + proficiency + equipment
• Crew members act independently on their turns
• The vehicle moves when the Pilot takes a Drive action — not on a fixed "vehicle turn"
• First Round Coordination: At the start of vehicle combat, the Commander (if present) can make a DC 14 Tactics check as a free action. On success, up to two crew members can swap their initiative positions. This represents the Commander calling out "Gunner, hold fire — Pilot, get us in position first!"

The Combat Round

On each crew member's turn, they have 3 actions and 1 reaction, just like personal combat.

Role Actions vs Open Actions: Each station has its own action list (see Crew Roles above). In addition, every crew member — regardless of role — can use Open Actions on their turn (see below). This means a Gunner who has already fired can spend their third action putting out a fire, and an Engineer can grab a personal weapon and shoot through a viewport if there's nothing to repair.

Example Round (Heavy vehicle, 5 crew):

Kira (Pilot, Init 19): Drive (move 30 ft to flank enemy APC), Combat Maneuver (bootleg turn to expose broadside), Evasive Action (+2 DV).

Jace (Navigator, Init 17): Scan (detect second enemy vehicle approaching from east), Identify Target (reveal enemy APC has Damaged engine — speed halved), relay info to Gunner ("Hit the engine!").

Torres (Gunner, Init 14): Target Lock (+2 on enemy APC), Fire Mounted Weapon (attack roll with advantage from Navigator's Identify Target), Fire Mounted Weapon (second shot, −3 MAP).

Ren (Engineer, Init 11): Reroute Power (boost weapons +1d4 damage for this round), Damage Control (restore Stressed sensors to Operational), Brace Bulkhead (open action — reinforce hull section, +2 DV vs next attack from port side).

Captain Voss (Commander, Init 8): Issue Orders (+2 to Pilot's next check), Call Target (all Gunners gain +1 vs enemy APC), Tactical Assessment (identify enemy's weakest system — weapons, next attack vs weapons has advantage).

Open Actions

Open actions can be performed by any crew member regardless of their current station. They represent common-sense actions that don't require specialized training — a Navigator can shout a warning, an Engineer can fire a sidearm, a Gunner can help stabilize a wounded crewmate.

Design Intent: Open actions exist to eliminate dead turns. If the Engineer has already repaired everything and rerouted power, they can spot threats, brace bulkheads, put out fires, or help a wounded crew member. Nobody stares at their character sheet waiting for "their thing" to happen.

Switching Roles

A crew member can switch to a different unmanned station as 1 action (equivalent to moving to a new position inside the vehicle). They can then use their remaining actions in the new role. A crew member cannot occupy two roles simultaneously.

Improvised Station Actions

Any crew member can attempt another role's basic actions at disadvantage without switching stations — representing shouting orders to the targeting computer, slapping a console to reroute power, or grabbing a fire extinguisher near the gun turret. This costs 1 action and uses the character's own skill modifier (not the role's optimal skill).

Improvised station actions are limited to the basic action for each role:

• Pilot: Drive only
• Navigator: Scan only
• Gunner: Fire Mounted Weapon only (single shot)
• Engineer: Damage Control only
• Commander: Issue Orders only (one target, +1 instead of +2)
• Communications: Broadcast only

Specialized actions (Combat Maneuver, Countermeasures, Aimed Shot, Reroute Power, etc.) require being at the station.

Passengers

Characters not filling a crew role are passengers. Passengers use the full 3-action economy with Open Actions and their personal abilities.

What Passengers Can Do:

• Use personal weapons (ranged attacks from firing ports or open positions)
• Cast spells targeting creatures outside the vehicle
• Use skills, items, or abilities as normal
• Perform any Open Action
• Provide Aid actions to crew members (+2 to their next check)
• Repel Boarders — fight enemies who breach the hull (see Boarding Actions)
• Ready Personal Abilities — prepare actions for when the vehicle stops or doors open

Firing from a Moving Vehicle: Passengers (and anyone using personal weapons instead of mounted ones) attack with disadvantage unless the vehicle has a Stabilization System module or the Pilot did not take a Drive action this round.

Passengers Are Not Useless: A party of six in a vehicle with five stations still has a fully active sixth member. That member can spot threats, provide aid, heal crew, cast spells, prepare for boarding, or use personal weapons. In a chase, passengers can throw obstacles, use abilities to slow pursuers, or ready actions for when they close to boarding range.

Targeting Vehicles

Attackers outside the vehicle can target:

• The vehicle itself: Attack vs vehicle DV. Damage applies to vehicle HP.
• Crew/passengers: Attack vs individual's DV with +2 cover bonus (partial cover from vehicle structure). If the vehicle has an enclosed cabin, this becomes +5 (heavy cover) or total cover (cannot target occupants directly — must damage the vehicle).
• Specific systems: An attacker can declare a called shot against a specific vehicle system (Engine, Weapons, Sensors, or Hull) at −3 to hit. On hit, that system takes one level of damage in addition to normal HP damage. This gives infantry and small vehicles a tactical way to disable larger opponents.

Vehicle Attacks

Ramming: The Pilot makes a Combat Maneuver check (DC 15). On success, deal ram damage based on vehicle size:

The rammed target (vehicle or creature) makes a Reflex save against the listed DC. On failure, full damage and knocked prone/spun out. On success, half damage.

The ramming vehicle takes half the damage it deals (structural stress). The Pilot can reduce this by 1d10 with a successful DC 16 Piloting check Free (part of the maneuver).

Ramming Creatures: A vehicle that rams a creature of smaller size than the vehicle deals full ram damage (no attack roll needed — the creature makes a Reflex save to dive aside for half damage). Creatures two or more size categories smaller are automatically hit.

Sideswiping: A less destructive alternative to ramming. The Pilot makes a Combat Maneuver check (DC 14) against an adjacent vehicle. On success, deal half ram damage and force the target to make a Piloting check (DC = your Piloting result) or lose control for 1 round (speed halved, −2 DV, can only Drive on next turn).

System Damage Track

As vehicles take damage, their systems degrade. The system damage track applies penalties based on remaining HP percentage.

System Disabled: When a system is disabled, roll 1d4:

1. Engine — Vehicle cannot move. Speed becomes 0.
2. Weapons — All mounted weapons offline. Gunners cannot fire.
3. Sensors/Comms — Navigation and targeting systems down. −4 to Weapon Systems and Navigation checks (stacks with track penalty).
4. Life Support/Hull — Crew exposed to environment. If in hostile conditions (vacuum, underwater, toxic atmosphere), crew takes 1d6 damage per round.

Cascade Failures: When a vehicle enters Critical status, the GM rolls on the Cascade Failure table at the start of each round:

Repairing Systems: The Engineer can restore disabled systems using Damage Control. Each system level requires a separate check:

• Stressed → Operational: DC 14
• Damaged → Stressed: DC 18
• Disabled → Damaged: DC 22
• With Expertise: restore two levels in one check

Critical Hits on Vehicles

A natural 20 against a vehicle causes a system critical in addition to double damage. The attacker chooses which system is affected (Engine, Weapons, Sensors, or Hull). That system drops one damage level immediately, regardless of the vehicle's overall HP threshold.

Vehicle Destruction

When a vehicle reaches 0 HP, it is Disabled — not destroyed. The crew has 1d4 rounds to evacuate before the vehicle becomes unsalvageable (fire, structural collapse, explosion).

Catastrophic Destruction: If a vehicle takes damage equal to its max HP while already at 0 HP, it explodes. All creatures within the blast radius take damage:

Reflex save DC 15 for half damage.

Chase Encounters

Not every vehicle encounter is a slugfest. Sometimes the goal is to catch something — or to escape something. Chase encounters are structured encounters with escalating tension, environmental obstacles, and a clear win/loss condition.

When to Use a Chase

Use a chase encounter instead of standard vehicle combat when:

• One side is trying to flee or pursue — the goal isn't to destroy, it's to catch or escape
• The environment is the primary obstacle — a narrow canyon, a collapsing highway, a storm
• You want fast-paced, high-stakes action without grinding through HP totals
• The narrative demands urgency — a ticking clock, a kidnapping, a delivery under fire

Chase Structure

A chase has three components: Range, Rounds, and Complications.

Range Bands

Instead of exact distances, chases use abstract range bands that track relative positioning between vehicles.

Starting Range: The GM sets the starting range band based on the narrative. An ambush starts at Close or Engaged. A pursuit after a spotted target starts at Far.

Chase Rounds

Each chase round follows this sequence:

1. Complication — The GM introduces an environmental obstacle or event (see Complication Table)
2. Initiative — Crew members act in initiative order as normal
3. Chase Check — At the end of the round, both vehicles' Pilots make an opposed Piloting check (modified by vehicle speed difference). The winner shifts the range band one step in their favor (closer if pursuing, farther if fleeing)
4. Escalation — After each round, the chase intensifies (see Escalation)

Speed Advantage: The faster vehicle adds the speed difference (in 10-ft increments) as a bonus to their Pilot's chase check. A vehicle with 50 ft speed chasing one with 30 ft speed adds +2 to the chase check. This bonus caps at +4.

Winning a Chase:

• Pursuer wins when range reaches Engaged and the quarry fails to disengage for 2 consecutive rounds (caught — boarding, forced stop, or surrounded)
• Quarry wins when range moves beyond Extreme (escaped — pursuer loses contact)
• Either side can end the chase early by disabling the other vehicle through combat

Chase Complications

At the start of each round, the GM rolls or chooses a complication. Complications affect all vehicles in the chase — both sides must react.

Terrain Complications (d8):

Weather/Condition Overlay (optional, d4):

Crew Actions During Chases

Every crew member has specific things they can do during a chase that go beyond their standard role actions:

Pilot: Standard role actions plus:

Navigator: Critical in chases:

Gunner: Combat during chases:

• Standard fire actions at range-appropriate targets
• Shoot Out Tires/Engines (called shot, −3 to hit): On hit, target vehicle's speed is reduced by 10 ft for 1d4 rounds (stacks). Reduces their chase check bonus
Warning Shot 1 Action (DC 14 Weapon Systems): Force quarry's crew to make DC 14 Will save or take −2 to their next check (rattled by near-miss)

Engineer: Keeping the vehicle alive:

• Overclock Engine is especially valuable — doubling speed for the chase check
Emergency Patch 1 Action (DC 14 Engineering): If the vehicle took damage from a complication, restore 1d8 HP immediately
Dump Cargo 1 Action: Jettison cargo to reduce weight. Vehicle gains +10 ft speed for the rest of the chase but cargo is lost. Pursuing vehicles must make DC 14 Piloting check or take 1d6 damage from flying debris

Commander: Coordination is king:

Communications Officer:

Passengers:

Without a Navigator, the Pilot must handle detection and navigation alone, making all hazard-related checks at disadvantage.

Encounter Types

Vehicle encounters aren't just "drive and shoot." Different encounter types create different pacing, challenges, and opportunities for player engagement.

Pitched Battle

The standard vehicle combat encounter — two or more vehicles fighting to disable or destroy each other.

Structure: Standard initiative, standard actions, fight until one side is disabled, destroyed, or retreats.

GM Tips:

• Add environmental hazards to prevent static positioning
• Use multiple smaller enemies instead of one big one — forces the crew to prioritize targets
• Include infantry support on one or both sides to create a mixed-scale encounter
• Give the terrain features that reward maneuvering (cover, chokepoints, elevation)

Convoy Defense / Ambush

One side protects a slow-moving target (cargo vehicle, refugee column, fuel tanker) while the other attacks it.

Structure:

• Defenders win by getting the convoy to its destination or driving off all attackers
• Attackers win by destroying or capturing the convoy target
• The convoy moves at a fixed speed (usually 20 ft/round) along a set route
• Attackers choose when and where to strike — defenders must react

Player Engagement: Every role matters:

• Pilot keeps the escort vehicle between the convoy and attackers
• Navigator spots ambush positions and warns of incoming threats
• Gunner engages attackers before they reach the convoy
• Engineer keeps both the escort and convoy vehicles running
• Commander coordinates defense, prioritizes threats
• Passengers can ride on the convoy vehicle itself, providing personal-scale defense

Blockade Run

The party must get their vehicle through a defended position — a checkpoint, a minefield, a narrow strait covered by shore batteries, or an orbital defense grid.

Structure:

• Defenses are fixed positions with known locations (or discoverable via Navigation checks)
• The party must cross a series of zones (3-5), each with its own hazards and defenders
• Each zone has a condition for clearing it: destroy the defense, bypass it (Stealth/Piloting), hack it (Technology/Hacking), or talk through it (Persuasion via Comms)
• Failure in one zone doesn't end the run but makes subsequent zones harder (alert level increases, reinforcements called)

Player Engagement: Multiple approaches reward diverse party skills. The Hacker can disable turrets. The Diplomat can bluff past checkpoints. The Pilot can thread the needle through a gap in the defenses. The Navigator can find an unguarded route. The run is a series of linked challenges, not a single extended fight.

Salvage / Exploration

The party explores a wreck, derelict, or unknown structure using their vehicle as a mobile base.

Structure:

• The vehicle provides a safe base of operations (Medical Bay, Workshop, sensors)
• Crew split between those staying aboard (monitoring sensors, providing overwatch) and those exploring on foot
• The Navigator tracks the exploration team's position and warns of hazards
• The Engineer keeps the vehicle ready for emergency extraction
• The Communications Officer maintains contact with the away team

Player Engagement: This encounter type creates natural split-party scenarios without the usual problems — the crew aboard the vehicle has active roles (sensor monitoring, comms, overwatch fire) while the away team handles personal-scale exploration. Both groups are engaged simultaneously.

Dogfight

A fast, chaotic battle between multiple small vehicles (Personal and Light size). Emphasizes pilot skill over firepower.

Structure:

• Use range bands instead of exact positioning (like chases)
• Each vehicle has its own range band relative to each other vehicle
• The fight is fluid — positions change constantly
• Victory comes from disabling or forcing enemies to break off, not slugging through HP

Player Engagement: In a dogfight, solo operators (one person per vehicle) get to use the full action economy — Drive, fire, evade, all in the same turn. For crewed Light vehicles (Pilot + Gunner), the coordination is tight and fast. Dogfights should be short (3-4 rounds) and decisive.

Encounter Pacing

Escalation Phases

Long vehicle encounters should escalate through three phases to maintain dramatic tension:

Phase 1: Engagement (Rounds 1-2) The sides make contact. Sensors light up. The Commander calls battle stations. The first shots are fired.

• Systems are operational, resources are full
• Crew establishes their rhythm — Pilot positions, Gunner fires, Engineer monitors
• The biggest decision: approach or engage at range?

Phase 2: Attrition (Rounds 3-5) The fight gets real. Damage accumulates. Systems start failing. Resources drain.

• System damage track starts biting — the −2/−4 penalties make every check harder
• The Engineer has real repair decisions — which system do I fix first?
• The Commander has to prioritize — buff the struggling Pilot or the overheating Gunner?
• Environmental hazards introduced by GM hit harder against damaged vehicles
• Cascade failures begin on Critical vehicles — fires, power loss, hull groaning

Phase 3: Crisis (Rounds 6+) Something has to give. Both sides are damaged. The fight either ends or transforms.

• Vehicles at Critical or Disabled status
• Boarding becomes attractive — easier to take the enemy vehicle than destroy it
• Crew must choose: fight to the end, attempt escape, or surrender?
• The GM should push toward resolution — reinforcements arrive, the terrain forces a decision, a catastrophic system failure changes everything

Pacing Guidelines for GMs

Keep rounds under 10 minutes of real time. Vehicle combat with 5+ crew members can slow down. Mitigation:

• Have crew members pre-plan their actions while waiting for their turn
• Resolve Open Actions quickly (most don't require rolls)
• Use the Commander's Coordinate action to batch multiple crew actions together narratively
• If a station has nothing urgent to do, encourage the player to use Open Actions or assist others — don't let them sit idle

End combat before it becomes a grind. If both sides are at Damaged status and neither is gaining advantage, introduce a complication that forces resolution — a third party arrives, the terrain collapses, an environmental hazard threatens both sides.

Vary encounter types within a session. A session with vehicle content should mix encounter types — a chase followed by a pitched battle, or an exploration followed by an ambush. Don't run two identical pitched battles in the same session.

Vehicle Design

Players and GMs can build custom vehicles using the modular construction system. A vehicle is assembled from a Frame, Stations assigned to crew roles, Modules installed in hardware slots, and Compartments filling interior spaces.

Step 1: Choose a Frame

The frame determines the vehicle's size class, base statistics, movement type, station count, module slots, and compartment capacity.

Movement Types:

• Ground (wheeled): Fastest on roads, difficult terrain costs ×3 movement
• Ground (tracked): Slower but handles difficult terrain at ×2 movement
• Ground (legged): Handles all terrain at ×2, can climb, ignores obstacles smaller than it
• Hover: Ignores ground-level difficult terrain, cannot exceed altitude limit
• Flight (atmospheric): Full 3D movement within atmosphere
• Flight (orbital): Can reach orbit; operates in vacuum
• Water: Surface operation on bodies of water
• Water/submerged: Can operate on surface or submerge

Apply the Tier cost multiplier to the frame base cost.

Step 2: Install Modules

Each module occupies 1 module slot unless noted. Modules are organized into four categories: Engine, Armor, Weapon, and Utility.

Engine Modules

Armor Modules

Weapon Modules

Turret vs Fixed: Turret-mounted weapons can fire in any direction. Fixed weapons fire only in the vehicle's facing arc (front 90°). Fixed weapons cost 30% less but require the Pilot to position the vehicle.

Ammunition: Ballistic weapons require ammunition. Standard loadout is 100 rounds (enough for most combats). Resupply costs 10% of the weapon module's price per 100 rounds.

Utility Modules

Step 3: Assign Stations

Assign crew roles to each station slot. Fixed stations are predetermined by vehicle size (see Crew Stations — Station Layout by Size). Flexible station slots can be assigned to any role.

For each weapon module installed, ensure a Gunner station exists to control it. Weapons without a dedicated Gunner station can only be fired by a crew member who spends 1 action to switch to that weapon (improvised operation, at disadvantage).

Step 4: Choose Compartments (Medium+ Only)

Select compartments for each compartment slot. See Compartments for the full list of compartment types, costs, and effects. Compartment choices define the vehicle's mission profile and should match the crew's intended role.

Step 5: Calculate Final Statistics

1. Start with frame base stats (size class determines HP, DV, speed, stations, modules, compartments)
2. Apply tier multiplier to HP
3. Add module effects (DV bonuses, speed bonuses, weapon loadout)
4. Add compartment effects (bonuses, capacities)
5. Calculate total cost (frame × tier multiplier + all modules + all compartments)
6. Determine CR value (see Vehicle CR below)

Example Build — "Dust Devil" Raider Buggy (Light):

• Frame: Car/Truck (Light, 500 cr)
• Tier: 2 (Functional, ×2 = 1,000 cr frame)
• Stations: 2 (Pilot, Gunner)
• Modules: Reinforced Plating (+2 DV, 400 cr), Turret MG (2d8, 900 cr)
• Compartments: — (Light vehicles have no compartments)
• HP: 40 × 1.25 = 50
• DV: 13 + 2 = 15
• Speed: 50 ft | Passengers: 0
• Total Cost: 1,000 + 400 + 900 = 2,300 cr
• CR Value: 3

Example Build — "Wasteland Pilgrim" Expedition Dropship (Heavy):

• Frame: Dropship (Heavy, 15,000 cr)
• Tier: 3 (Military, ×4 = 60,000 cr frame)
• Stations: 5 (Pilot, Navigator, Gunner ×2, Engineer)
• Modules (7): Performance Engine (+10 ft, 800 cr), Composite Armor (+3 DV/DR 5, 1,500 cr), Turret MG ×2 (2d8 each, 1,800 cr), Sensor Array (+2 Nav, 500 cr), Stabilization System (400 cr), Fire Suppression (300 cr)
• Compartments (3): Crew Quarters (400 cr), Medical Bay (1,500 cr), Cargo Hold (500 cr)
• HP: 150 × 1.5 = 225
• DV: 15 + 3 = 18
• Speed: 40 ft flight | Passengers: 12
• Total Cost: 60,000 + 5,300 + 2,400 = 67,700 cr
• CR Value: 16

Drones

Drones are autonomous or remote-controlled vehicles of Personal size. They follow all standard vehicle rules with these modifications:

Drone Basics

• Size: Always Personal (20 base HP, DV 12, 1 module slot)
Control: Remote 1 Action (operator uses to command) or Autonomous (acts independently with limited AI)
• Range: Remote drones operate within 500 ft of the controller (1 mile with Communications Suite). Beyond range, the drone hovers/stops.
• Initiative: Remote drones act on the controller's turn (controller spends actions to command them). Autonomous drones roll their own initiative.

Drone Frames

Operating Drones

Multiple Drones: A character can control only 1 drone per action spent. Controlling 2 drones requires 2 actions, leaving only 1 action for personal use. The Technician's Drone Commander feature (if taken) allows commanding 2 drones with 1 action.

Autonomous Drones

Autonomous drones have limited onboard AI (Cognitive Level 1, see AI & Synthetics below). They can:

• Follow simple standing orders ("patrol this area," "attack hostiles," "follow me")
• React to threats (return fire, evade)
• Navigate to waypoints

They cannot make complex tactical decisions, distinguish disguised enemies from allies, or adapt to situations outside their programming. They roll their own initiative with a +0 modifier (or +2 with a Tier 3+ sensor module).

Synthetics

Synthetics are humanoid (or near-humanoid) constructs — robots, androids, and mechanical beings. They occupy a design space between drones and creatures.

Synthetic Construction

Synthetics use a simplified version of the vehicle build system. For full player-crafted synthetics with specific frame types, modifications, and detailed AI installation, see the Synthetic Construction section in the Crafting chapter.

Synthetic Modules: Synthetics can install any Utility module that makes physical sense, plus these synthetic-specific options:

Synthetic Behavior

A synthetic's behavior is determined by its Cognitive Level (see below). Lower-CL synthetics follow orders literally. Higher-CL synthetics can interpret intent, make judgments, and even develop personality quirks.

Synthetics as Party Members: A synthetic controlled by a player operates as a secondary character. It acts on its own initiative, has its own stat block, and can fill vehicle crew roles. However, it uses the controlling player's actions for complex decisions (CL 1-2) or acts independently with GM guidance (CL 3-4).

AI & Cognitive Levels

Artificial intelligence in the Ashfall ranges from simple programs to near-sentient minds. AI exists in three contexts: drone control, synthetic minds, and server-based systems.

Cognitive Levels

AI in Drones and Synthetics

The AI's Cognitive Level determines its effective skill bonuses when acting independently:

AI Costs:

Server Infrastructure

AI can be hosted on servers — stationary systems that provide processing power, data storage, and network coordination. Servers are not vehicles but use a similar module system.

Server Frames:

Server Modules:

Hacking Servers: Server-based AI can be attacked through the Hacking advanced skill. See Advanced Skills — Hacking for network intrusion rules. Servers with Intrusion Countermeasures make opposed checks against intruders.

Repair and Maintenance

Vehicles require maintenance and repairs following the gritty rest economy.

Combat Repairs

Short Rest Repairs (8 Hours)

During a short rest, characters with Engineering proficiency can perform sustained repairs:

• Standard Repair: Engineering check DC 14. Restore 4d10 + INT modifier vehicle HP. Uses 4 repair supplies.
• System Restoration: Restore all Stressed systems to Operational automatically. Damaged systems require DC 16 check each.
• Module Repair: Fix a damaged module. Engineering DC 16, 2 repair supplies, 1 hour per module.

Long Rest Repairs (7 Days)

During a long rest in a settlement with a workshop or garage:

• Full Repair: Restore vehicle to full HP. Cost: 10% of vehicle's total value in parts and labor.
• Full System Restoration: All systems restored to Operational.
• Module Replacement: Swap, install, or remove modules. No check required (workshop available). Cost: module price only.
• Upgrade Tier: A vehicle can be upgraded one tier (max Tier 5 through upgrades). Cost: difference in frame price between tiers + 50% labor surcharge. Time: 7 days per tier upgraded.

Repair Supplies

Repair supplies are consumable kits containing salvaged parts, welding materials, and patch components.

Fuel

Most vehicles require fuel. Fuel consumption varies by vehicle size and tier.

Fuel Capacity: Vehicles carry enough fuel for 8 hours of standard operation. Extended fuel tanks (utility module, 200 cr) double capacity to 16 hours.

Fusion Drives (Tier 5 engine) require no fuel — they run on self-sustaining reaction for years.

Vehicle CR and Encounter Building

Vehicles have CR values for encounter building, integrated with the existing CR budget system (see Game Mastering).

Vehicle CR Calculation

CR Adjustment: Add +1 CR for each weapon module beyond the first. Add +1 CR if crew includes a Commander with Tactics proficiency.

Encounter Design with Vehicles

PCs in Vehicles vs Enemies on Foot: Reduce the CR budget by 25%. Vehicles give PCs significant advantages in mobility and firepower.

PCs on Foot vs Enemy Vehicles: Increase the CR budget by 25%. Ensure the environment provides cover and opportunities for PCs to disable vehicles (target wheels/treads, use terrain to block).

Vehicle vs Vehicle: Use standard CR budgets. Balance by matching total vehicle CR to the encounter difficulty tier.

Mixed Encounters (vehicles + infantry): Combine vehicle CR and creature CR normally. Vehicles + infantry supporting them are more dangerous than either alone — consider reducing the total budget by 10%.

Class Feature Synergies

Certain class features interact with vehicle operations. These features are always superior to skill-only alternatives — a class-trained character is better in their specialty than a generalist with the same skill.

Warrior

• Mounted Combat (L3): Extends to vehicles. When operating as Pilot, add MIG modifier to ram damage. Vehicle DV increases by +1 when you are Pilot.
• Battlemaster (L6 Warlord): Issue Orders as a bonus action instead of a full action when serving as Commander. Coordinate affects all crew instead of two.

Gunslinger

• Sharpshooter (L1): Applies to vehicle-mounted weapons. Ignore long range disadvantage on mounted weapons.
Quick Draw (L3): Switch between personal weapons and mounted weapon station as a free action 1 Action (normally).

Technician

• Drone Commander: Command 2 drones with 1 action. Drones gain +2 to all checks.
• Field Engineer (L3): Advantage on all Engineering checks for vehicles. Damage Control restores 2 system levels instead of 1.
• Master Craftsman (L6 Artificer): Build vehicles at 75% cost. Field Modifications take half time. Can upgrade vehicles by 2 tiers during long rest (normally max 1).

Operative

• Infiltrator (L6 Spy): Advantage on Piloting checks for stealth approaches. Can hack vehicle systems remotely (requires line of sight and Hacking skill).

Medic

• Triage (L3): Can perform Emergency Field Medicine on crew members inside a moving vehicle without the normal combat DC increase.

Diplomat

• Inspiring Leader (L1): Rally Crew as Commander grants temporary HP (1d6 + PRE modifier) in addition to normal effects.

Channeler

• Divine Protection (L3): Extends protective auras to vehicle crew (all crew within the vehicle count as within 30 ft).

Mystic

• Arcane Ward (L1): Can extend Arcane Ward to cover a vehicle's hull. The ward provides temp HP to the vehicle equal to twice the normal amount.

Sample Vehicles

Tier 1 — Salvaged

Rust Runner (Personal Ground, Tier 1)

• Frame: Cycle (200 cr)
• Stations: 1 (Pilot)
• HP: 20 | DV: 12 | Speed: 60 ft
• Modules: Scrap Engine (100 cr)
• Total: 300 cr | CR: 1
• A cobbled-together motorcycle held together by wire and prayer. Stalls on natural 1 Piloting checks.

Tier 2 — Functional

Dust Devil (Light Ground, Tier 2)

• Frame: Car/Truck (1,000 cr)
• Stations: 2 (Pilot, Gunner)
• HP: 50 | DV: 15 | Speed: 50 ft | Passengers: 0
• Modules: Reinforced Plating (+2 DV, 400 cr), Turret MG (2d8, 900 cr)
• Total: 2,300 cr | CR: 3
• A battered four-wheeler with a jury-rigged turret. The go-to raider vehicle.

Buzzard (Personal Flight, Tier 2)

• Frame: Hover Drone (300 cr × 2 = 600 cr)
• Stations: 1 (Pilot — remote operator)
• HP: 25 | DV: 12 | Speed: 50 ft hover
• Modules: Sensor Array (+2 Navigation, 500 cr)
• Total: 1,100 cr | CR: 2
• A recon drone with enhanced sensors. Ideal for scouting ahead.

Tier 3 — Military

Ironclad (Medium Ground, Tier 3)

• Frame: APC (8,000 cr)
• Stations: 3 (Pilot, Navigator, Gunner)
• HP: 120 | DV: 17 | Speed: 40 ft | Passengers: 8
• Modules (5): Standard Engine, Composite Armor (+3 DV, DR 5), Turret MG (2d8), Stabilization System, Passenger Seats (×4)
• Compartments (1): Armory (800 cr)
• Total: ~15,600 cr | CR: 9
• A pre-war armored personnel carrier restored to fighting condition. The Navigator watches the sensor display while the squad gears up from the onboard armory. Eight passengers ride with stable firing positions.

Stormhawk (Medium Flight, Tier 3)

• Frame: Shuttle (12,000 cr)
• Stations: 3 (Pilot, Navigator, Gunner)
• HP: 120 | DV: 14 | Speed: 50 ft flight | Passengers: 4
• Modules (5): Performance Engine (+10 ft), Missile Rack (3d10), Mounted MG (2d8), Sensor Array, Fire Suppression
• Compartments (1): Cargo Hold (500 cr)
• Total: ~19,900 cr | CR: 10
• An atmospheric shuttle retrofitted for combat. The Navigator plots evasive courses while the Gunner switches between missiles and machine gun. Fast and heavily armed but lightly armored.

Tier 4 — Advanced

Leviathan (Heavy Ground, Tier 4)

• Frame: Tank (64,000 cr)
• Stations: 5 (Pilot, Navigator, Gunner ×2, Engineer)
• HP: 300 | DV: 19 | Speed: 50 ft | Passengers: 8
• Modules (7): Military Turbine (+20 ft), Reactive Armor (+3 DV, DR 5), Heavy Cannon (4d12), Point Defense System, Turret MG (2d8), Encrypted Comms, Stabilization System
• Compartments (3): Engine Room (3,000 cr), Armory (800 cr), Crew Quarters (400 cr)
• Total: ~86,700 cr | CR: 20
• A fully restored pre-war main battle tank. Two Gunners operate the heavy cannon and turret MG while the Engineer works from a dedicated engine room, keeping the turbine running hot. The Navigator feeds targeting data from encrypted sensor feeds. The crew sleeps aboard between engagements.

Tier 5 — Experimental

Wraithblade (Heavy Flight, Tier 5)

• Frame: Dropship (240,000 cr)
• Stations: 5 (Pilot, Navigator, Gunner ×2, Engineer) + 1 extra Communications (400 cr, 1 module slot)
• HP: 375 | DV: 20 | Speed: 60 ft flight | Passengers: 12
• Modules (7): Fusion Drive (+30 ft, unlimited fuel), Hardlight Barrier (+4 DV, DR 10 energy), Energy Lance (5d8), Railgun (4d10), Advanced Sensors, Stealth System, Escape Pods
• Compartments (3 + 1 from Tier bonus): Crew Quarters (400 cr), Medical Bay (1,500 cr), War Room (1,200 cr), Shield Generator Room (4,000 cr)
• Total: ~300,000+ cr | CR: 25
• An experimental dropship recovered from a pre-war black site. Six crew operate in concert — the Pilot flies silent while the Navigator feeds sensor ghosts to the Comms Officer, who spoofs enemy IFF codes. Two Gunners man the energy lance and railgun while the Engineer monitors the fusion drive from amidships. Between missions, the Commander plans operations in the war room. The stuff of wasteland legends.

Quick Reference

Vehicle Combat Checklist

1. Roll Initiative — Each crew member rolls individually
2. Declare Roles — Each crew member picks a station (Pilot, Navigator, Gunner, Engineer, Commander, Communications)
Commander Coordination — Commander may swap two crew members' initiative positions Free (DC 14 Tactics)
3. Act on Turn — 3 actions + 1 reaction per crew member, using role actions OR open actions
4. Track System Damage — Update damage track as vehicles take HP damage
5. Cascade Failures — At Critical status, roll on Cascade Failure table each round
6. Resolve Ram/Collision — When vehicles collide, resolve damage to both

Chase Encounter Checklist

1. Set Starting Range — GM determines range band (Engaged/Close/Medium/Far/Extreme)
2. Roll Complication — GM rolls or chooses from Complication Table
3. Act on Turn — Standard initiative, crew use role + chase-specific actions
4. Chase Check — End of round, opposed Piloting checks (+ speed advantage). Winner shifts range 1 band
5. Check Escalation — After round 3, complications increase DC by +2
6. Resolution — Pursuer wins at Engaged (2 rounds). Quarry wins past Extreme

Crew Role Summary

Open Actions (Any Role)

Station & Compartment Quick Reference

System Damage Quick Track

[■■■■] Operational (100-76%) — No penalties
[■■■□] Stressed (75-51%)     — -2 all checks
[■■□□] Damaged (50-26%)      — -4 all checks, ½ speed, 1 system down
[■□□□] Critical (25-1%)      — -6 all checks, ¼ speed, 2 systems down, cascade failures
[□□□□] Disabled (0%)         — Inoperable, evacuate!

Chase Range Bands

[ENGAGED]  0-30 ft    — Boarding, ramming, all weapons, melee possible
[CLOSE]    30-200 ft  — All weapons, personal weapons viable
[MEDIUM]   200-1K ft  — Mounted weapons only, long range penalties
[FAR]      1-5K ft    — Long-range weapons only (missiles, railguns)
[EXTREME]  5K+ ft     — Sensors only, one more Disengage = escape

Boarding Methods Quick Reference

Module Slot Quick Reference