Arx Fatalis Attributes and skills: plan combat, stealth and utility
Choose a character direction and understand which skills unlock practical actions.
Edition covered
Original Arx Fatalis PC campaign and publisher pictures. Arx Libertatis is a community engine project; its interface conveniences and optional changes are not assumed here. Xbox controls differ from the PC rune-drawing interface.
Attributes influence several derived skills
Strength, Intelligence, Dexterity and Constitution shape more than one number. Review the derived skills after assigning points so the build supports its equipment, magic and survival requirements together.
| Attribute | Supports | Planning question |
|---|---|---|
| Strength | Physical power and heavy equipment | Does the intended weapon need more strength? |
| Intelligence | Magic and several knowledge skills | Will spellcasting be a main tool? |
| Dexterity | Precision and technical or stealth skills | Is quiet access part of the route? |
| Constitution | Health and poison resistance | Can the character survive mistakes? |
Technical skill and Object Knowledge are different
Technical skill helps with mechanisms such as locks and traps. Object Knowledge concerns understanding and handling items, including identification, repair and alchemical work, so one utility investment cannot be assumed to replace the other.
| Skill | Practical role | Do not confuse with |
|---|---|---|
| Technical skill | Locks and traps | Item identification |
| Object Knowledge | Identification, repair and alchemy | Opening every locked door |
| Stealth | Quiet concealed approaches | Guaranteed invisibility |
| Magic | Spellcasting ability | Possessing every required rune |
| Close Combat | Melee effectiveness | Projectile accuracy |
Stealth needs suitable behavior
The Stealth skill supports quiet movement and concealment, but lighting and approach still matter. Use shadows and watch enemy facing instead of expecting a high number to make a direct approach invisible.
Build around the gear you can use
Close Combat and Projectile skills support different attacks, while Magic supports spellcasting. Check equipment requirements before spending points on a weapon that the character cannot yet equip effectively.
References
| Reference | Website |
|---|---|
| Arx Fatalis publisher listing | store.steampowered.com |
| Publisher game manual | store.steampowered.com |