Illustration of an engineer working on a steam-powered machine with many gears.

Game Mechanics

The game mechanics of Flex RPG form the foundation of every session, guiding how players and the GM resolve actions and drive the story forward. Central to this system is Task Resolution, where stat rolls, modifiers, and conditions like advantage and disadvantage determine success. Whether overcoming challenges or achieving extreme success or critical failure, task resolution ensures gameplay is fair and dynamic.

When time is critical, gameplay transitions to Action Sequences, emphasizing fast decision-making and precise coordination. These sequences manage action rounds, where characters expend action points on tasks like movement, attacks, defense, or the use of character attributes . The Movement rules offer flexibility, allowing characters to navigate the game world, break up movement between actions, and adapt to various environments, from dungeon corridors to sprawling battlefields.

Combat and encounters often lead to injury or setbacks, addressed through Damage and Recovery mechanics. Characters may suffer Deficiencies, temporary conditions that challenge players with unique drawbacks. Rest Periods are essential for recovery, replenishing life points, power pools, and boost dice while providing opportunities to mitigate deficiencies.

As characters progress, Character Advancement allows them to grow stronger, gaining new attributes and improving their abilities. The game encourages collaboration through Haggling, where players and the GM negotiate creative solutions to challenges, attribute development, or in-game situations, enhancing the shared narrative.

By mastering these mechanics, you’ll ensure smooth and engaging gameplay that balances strategy, storytelling, and player creativity. Explore each section to deepen your understanding and elevate your campaigns.