BLACK SEVEN vs Superpowered
Compare BLACK SEVEN and Superpowered side by side. See differences in complexity, dice, genre, and more.
| BLACK SEVEN | Superpowered | |
|---|---|---|
| Genre | Modern | Modern, Superhero |
| Tags | Espionage, Mission-Based, Rules-Light, Theater of the Mind, Fast-Paced, One-Shot Friendly, Beginner-Friendly, Cinematic, CC-Licensed Rules | Rules-Light, Superpowers, Beginner-Friendly, Fast-Paced, Theater of the Mind, Character-Driven |
| Core Mechanic | Roll 2d6 + Trait, 11+ succeeds. Characters have 12 Traits organized into three categories, each with four Traits linked to Body, Speed, Mind, or Communication: Infiltrate (stealth and access), Force (open combat), and Mob (silent takedowns). An abstract positioning system tracks agent status through Exposed and Noticed states rather than using maps. Threat escalates from 3 to 5 as agents are detected, with guards only returning fire at Threat 5. | Roll 2d6 + skill level vs. a difficulty number (4+ easy to 10+ formidable). Characters have 7 broad skills, Endurance (stamina), and Lifeblood (health). Superpowers are defined by a Power source (from 36 options like Fire, Cosmic, or Speed) that grants themed Abilities. Weaknesses grant bonus Abilities. D66 tables generate random powers and origins. |
| Dice | 2d6 | 2d6 |
| Complexity | Very Low | Very Low |
| Availability | Paid | Paid |
| Runnability | 2 of 5 book tools | 2 of 5 book tools |
| License | CC BY-NC-SA 3.0 | OGL 1.0a |
| Third-Party Publishing | Not yet researched | Not yet researched |
| Publisher | Zero Point Information | Stellagama Publishing |
| Year | 2011 | 2020 |
| Languages | English | English |
| Best For | Groups who want fast, low-prep espionage one-shots inspired by stealth video games like Deus Ex and Splinter Cell, with abstract facility infiltration and no maps required. | Quick superhero campaigns with a simple 2d6 engine: build any hero from 36 power sources, take a weakness, and leap into four-color action without heavy rules. |
| Highlights | Abstract facility infiltration system replaces maps with positioning actions and escalating Threat levels. Three tactical approaches to every encounter: sneak past, ambush silently, or go loud. Character creation fits on an index card and takes minutes. Optional cybernetics and psionics modules expand the near-future setting. | Simple 2d6 rules, 36 diverse power sources with unique ability lists, quick character creation, OGL-compatible with Cepheus Engine material, includes heroes, villains, and creatures ready to play |
| Considerations | 47-page rulebook with limited content beyond the core loop of facility infiltration. No advancement or campaign mechanics: designed for one-shots and short arcs. No bestiary or NPC variety beyond guards and researchers. Sample adventure is the only published scenario. | Very niche, limited advancement system, superhero genre only, lacks the depth of crunchier supers games |