Mneme CE Space Combat/Chapter 1 Introduction
Chapter 1: Introduction
Overview
A game about space travel will almost inevitably require rules for space combat. The rules presented here are meant to provide a relatively simple means of resolving space combat that doesn't depart too strongly from the Traveller Combat system.
Mneme Space Combat is a variant rule set for the Cepheus Engine system, designed to streamline space combat while maintaining tactical depth and narrative excitement.
Key Features
- Use of a Map
- Track ship positions and movement during encounters
- Order of Turns
- Initiative-based action sequencing
- Clarified Encounter and Combat Ranges
- Precise definitions of engagement distances
- Grouping Rolls
- Streamlined mechanics for handling multiple ships or attacks
- Core Task Resolution System
- 2d6-based mechanics adapted for space combat
- Only Players Roll, even for Adversaries
- Reduces Referee workload
Summary of Changes from Cepheus Engine SRD
Core Task Resolution Changes
- Target Number (TN)
- Typically 8+, varies by circumstance
- How Effect is Calculated
- Dice Roll + Dice Modifier - Target Number = Effect (minimum 1 on success)
- One Roll Opposed Checks Mechanics
- Players roll against TN calculated as 8 + Adversary's DM
- Minimum Success Effect of 1
- A success always has at least Effect 1
- Double Effect Rolling 2 and 12
- Natural 12 doubles positive effect, natural 2 doubles negative effect
Superiority System
A Superiority dice modifier is added as a bonus or penalty based on relative resources, numbers, and preparation time between opposing forces.
| Difficulty Modifier | Examples | Ratio |
|---|---|---|
| DM+1 | A 400DT corvette and 400DT merchant, against 800DT of Raiders | 2+ vs 1 |
| DM+2 | A pair of 20DT fighters against a 100DT scout | 3+ vs 1 |
| DM+3 | A Q-ship against 6 Armed FreeTraders | 5+ vs 1 |
| DM+4 | A carrier strike group against a lone carrier | 7+ vs 1 |
| DM+5 | A missile squadron and escorts against a battered Raider | 10+ vs 1 |
| DM+6 | A full Battle Group against a single Destroyer | overwhelming |
Ship Design Changes
- Bridge Stations
- One station per Dton of bridge capacity
- Additional Sensors Stations
- Constrained by bridge stations
- Trading Bridge Space for Ship Components
- Can exchange bridge Dtons for amenities
- Life Pod Rules
- 1 Dton lifepods hold 3 adults
Navigation
Next: Chapter 2 - Ship Design