Open State
Also called: Open, The Open State, Channeling Window
Definition: The phase between when a Psionic declares Channeling and when the Talent resolves. The caster's attention is inward, holding the Current open. They can only Shift, cannot make Reactions, and are vulnerable to Disruption.
The Open State is the unique vulnerability of Psionic power. Where a gunfighter pulls a trigger and resolves their attack instantly, a Psionic holds the channel open for the duration of the Talent’s Tempo, anywhere from 4 to 9 Ticks. During this window, the caster is reaching into the Current and shaping it; their attention is inward; they are not the alert, defensive combatant they were a moment before.
Mechanical restrictions while Open:
- Cannot take other Actions (attention is inward).
- Can Shift (move up to Speed) but cannot Scramble, Rush, Sprint, or Take Cover.
- Cannot make Reactions (no Parry, no Intercept, no Dodge, no Dive).
- Vulnerable to Disruption (see the Disrupted condition):
- Taking damage forces an ECHO + Focus check (TN 8 + damage taken) or the Talent fails.
- Salt Rounds and rock salt cause automatic Disruption: no save.
Tactical implications:
| For Psionics | Against Psionics |
|---|---|
| Channel from cover when possible | Focus fire on Open targets |
| Wait for enemies to engage allies | Save Salt Rounds for the Open moment |
| Prefer low-Tempo Talents in danger | Force them to choose: cast or defend |
| Invest in Focus skill and Veil Anchor | Use Disrupt (Bastion Soul R1) for ranged interrupt |
The Open State is also what Threadrippers sense: the structured Current flowing through a casting Psionic is a neon sign that draws Veil-Born predators from miles away. Rank 3+ Channeling events specifically risk pulling 1d3 Threadrippers to the scene over the following hour.
(See also the Open State condition for the mechanical effect side of the same state, and the Disrupted condition for what happens when the vulnerability is exploited.)