Auras
Last updated: 01.2025
Auras are effects that are automatically applied to all tokens near a character. The DSA5 system supports auras as special effect types.
What are Auras?
An aura is a circular area around a token that:
- Automatically applies effects to tokens entering the area
- Removes effects when tokens leave the area
- Moves with the token
- Can have different targets (allies, enemies, all)
Creating an Aura
Making an Effect into an Aura
- Open an existing Effect on a character
- Enable the option Is Aura in the effect flags
- Configure the aura settings
Aura Configuration
| Setting | Description |
|---|---|
| Radius | Range of the aura in paces (e.g., 5) |
| Disposition | Who the aura affects |
| Border Color | Color of the aura ring (optional) |
| Border Width | Thickness of the aura ring |
Target Selection (Disposition)
| Option | Description |
|---|---|
| All (2) | Affects all tokens in the area |
| Allied | Only tokens with the same disposition (friendly/hostile) |
| Hostile | Only tokens with opposing disposition |
Aura Behavior
Entering the Aura
When a token enters the aura area:
- The system checks the disposition
- If matching, the aura effect is automatically applied to the token
- The effect receives the suffix “(Aura)” in its name
Leaving the Aura
When a token leaves the area:
- The aura effect is automatically removed
- Any modifiers caused by the effect end
Token Movement
- The aura moves with the source token
- Affected tokens are recalculated with each movement
- The DPS (Dere Positioning System) is used for distance calculation
Use Case Examples
Protection Aura
A spell that protects all allies in the vicinity:
- Radius: 5 paces
- Disposition: Allied (friendly)
- Effect: RS +2
Fear Aura
A creature that spreads fear:
- Radius: 10 paces
- Disposition: Hostile
- Effect: Condition “Fear” 1
Leadership Aura
A commander inspiring nearby troops:
- Radius: 8 paces
- Disposition: Allied
- Effect: +1 to attack and morale
Visual Representation
When auras are enabled:
- A colored ring appears around the source token
- The ring shows the aura radius
- Color can be customized per aura
Tips
- Combine with Conditions: Auras work well with status conditions
- Stack Carefully: Multiple auras of the same type may not stack
- Performance: Very large auras with many tokens can impact performance
- GM Override: The GM can manually apply or remove aura effects
See also: