Protocol Buffs

Three families of Protocol buffs are available:

Stat Boosts. Flat bonuses to a specific combat skill. Available in three tiers of increasing potency, each requiring a higher Protocol level to unlock.

Deflect Prayers. Powerful damage reduction effects that cut incoming damage significantly. Each Deflect targets a specific damage type (melee, ranged, or magic).

Overhead Protocols. Advanced multi-stat boosts that combine offensive and defensive bonuses. War Protocol empowers melee, Marksman Protocol empowers ranged, and Conduit Protocol empowers signal casting. Only one overhead can be active at a time.

Each buff drains a set number of Protocol points per turn while active. When your points reach zero, all active buffs deactivate. Managing your point pool is critical. Overcommitting to too many buffs at once will burn through your reserves quickly.

Protocol points restore at campfires in the wilderness. Visit a nomad camp or rest tile to refill your reserves before heading into dangerous territory. Planning your route around campfire access is part of the strategy.

Protocol XP is earned by burning signal fragments at the campfire. Not through combat. Higher Protocol levels unlock more powerful buffs and increase your total point pool, letting you sustain buffs for longer fights.