Ability Technology: Ethertech vs Solartech

Ethertech directly manipulates the fabric of reality, whether that is from a Moon Relic infused into a bioform or a Moon Relic integrated into an item. Solartech is always an item, and accesses Ether indirectly through the model of the Sun. Whether an Ability is connected to Ethertech or Solartech will determine its maximum Rank , as well as its potential channel limitations. For example, one cannot increase an Ethertech Energy Generation Ability beyond Rank 3 . One also cannot have a Solartech item that affects Spacetime. This reflects the world lore of the strengths of each type of technology.

Some factions favor one type of technology over the other. The Moon Wardens, the Chantry, and the Cursed all favor Ethertech, and their members use it almost exclusively. The Order of the Sun relies on Solartech, though Progressives will sometimes seek ways to use Ethertech as a bridge to Solartech development. While not a faction, Synths have evolved unique adaptations to integrate Ethertech into their forms, and almost all tend to favor Ethertech over Solartech. The Naga (and the Sisters of the Deep) use their own Ethertech with some additional rules, but those can be ignored for the initial Ability generated during character creation.

Bonded Companions are always considered Ethertech.

Technology Type - Rank Caps and Chorion

* The Rank cap on Energy Generation via Ethertech can be temporarily overcome with the use of Moonshards and the Power Up stunt.

** A Bonded Companion Ability is considered Ethertech.

*** While a handful of Solartech Psientists study Spacetime Manipulation, the practical application of such research is frowned upon by the Order of the Sun. Very few will (clandestinely) experiment with it and no Solartech Spacetime items are known to exist.