: These work automatically . If a character has the relevant ability (e.g., Forensic Accounting, Cop Talk) and is in a scene with a "core clue," they find it without rolling dice.
: Players can "spend" points from an ability's pool to gain "special" clues—extra information that isn't required to solve the case but provides significant advantages or deeper narrative flavor.
The system divides character capabilities into two distinct categories to ensure the story always moves forward: Based on the GUMSHOE System by Robin D. Laws
The , designed by Robin D. Laws, is a tabletop roleplaying game engine specifically engineered for investigative scenarios . Its core philosophy is that investigative games should not be about finding clues—which can grind to a halt if a player fails a dice roll—but about interpreting them. Core Mechanics
: Players can spend points from their general ability pools before rolling to add a +1 bonus per point spent to their result. Popular GUMSHOE Games : These work automatically
: These require rolling a single six-sided die (d6) against a difficulty number, typically 4.
The system is used across various genres and settings, primarily published by Pelgrane Press : The system divides character capabilities into two distinct
: Used for action-oriented tasks where the outcome is uncertain, such as combat, athletic feats, or driving.