Character progression in Drift is based on organic character development, rather than numerical (xp!) based progression:

• Development of ‘specialist skills’.
• Learning of, and invention of new Blueprints.
• Acquisition of advanced equipment.
• Understanding and insight into the in-world lore
• Building of networks and contacts (PCs and NPCs!)

Character progression is supported by Expertise Points, which may be applied to further this progression.

Expertise Points (EP)

Expertise points are the primary means of mechanical character progression in Drift. Expertise points are provided to characters during an event, as a reward for good roleplay, engaging with game mechanics, applying their skills, and various other means. 

Expertise points are tied to specific careers. For example, a character may simultaneously have 2 Medical expertise points, and 3 Military expertise points. A character cannot accrue expertise points for careers they do not have a rank in.

Expertise points are represented by expertise chips. The colour of the chip represents the career associated:

• White – Envoy
• Blue – Science
• Black – Engineering
• Red – Medical
• Green – Military

In just the same way that they are given to player characters, Expertise Points are utilised in play on an organic basis!