Trades represent your character’s learned skills and expertise, defining their profession and abilities as they progress. Players can switch or combine Trade Skills, but they can only Master a trade by acquiring five skills from the same Trade. Similarly, to reach Category X, they must obtain all ten skills from the same Trade unless otherwise noted.
Like Evolutionary Traits (Evos), Trades are shaped by the world and Age you’re playing, reflecting available resources, technology, and cultural priorities.
For example, In a post-apocalyptic Age, a Mechanic might excel in scavenging, repairing vehicles, or crafting weapons from scrap. While in a high-fantasy Age, a Blacksmith could forge enchanted weapons or mythical alloys from crystals and science magic.
Since BattleSauce is all about being bold and over the top, some might say, Saucy, your Trades should match that energy! Instead of simply choosing “Blacksmith,” consider “Hell Forging.” Make your Trades memorable by blending unique elements that fit your world, like “Shadow Tailor,” “Blood Master,” “Soul Knight,” or “Creeper Reaver.”
Each Trade encompasses a broad category of expertise, further divided into ten unique skills that enhance gameplay. For instance, a Doctor could have: Surgical Strike: Bonus to targeting vital anatomy in combat and healing severe wounds; and Operation!: Steady hands helpful for defusing bombs, intricate tasks, and, of course, surgery.
These skills combine practicality with flair, ensuring each Trade feels unique and exciting.
Trades come alive through standard playing cards, integrating strategy with narrative depth. Cards add flexibility and creativity to every skill:
Suits: Represent gameplay aspects (e.g., Clubs for physical skills).
Colors: Add thematic elements.
Numbers: Indicate power, success rates, or duration.
Images: Inspire narrative twists or unlock special effects.
When assigning cards to a Trade skill, consider how the card’s elements tie into the skill’s purpose, creating an intuitive and immersive experience. The artwork on playing cards—like the weapons, crowns, or expressions of the face cards— can inspire role-playing and Trade usage.
The following sections provide examples of Trades and demonstrate how cards and dice enhance their use in BattleSauce.