What is the Cortext System - ie the Serenity RPG mechanic

[Tonguez]

Apparently the TV show Supernatural is being adapted to RPG

it will be using the Cortex system which also powers Serenity RPG and Battlestar Galactica RPG. Anyway as I've not played any of these can anyone who has tell me about the Cortex system...

 

[Cam Banks]

Cortex is the name of our house system, which as you say is used in Serenity and in the upcoming Battlestar Galactica RPG. It's derived from the original Sovereign Stone RPG (before the d20 version was created) but it has been further developed and modified from there.

It's a fairly simple attribute + skill vs difficulty mechanic, with attributes and skills rated in terms of dice. The system uses every die from d2 through to d12, but no d20s. A means of introducing some player-driven narrative and story modification exists in the form of Plot Points, which can alter die rolls, introduce various plot elements, and so forth.

Of course, this doesn't really come close to describing the whole system, so for more information I would encourage checking out http://www.serenityrpg.com/ and following the various links for fan sites, reviews, and information.

Cheers,
Cam