Superpower (Power)
EFFECT
Cost 8 JP
Activate 1 PP; move action
Sustain 1 PP per round; free action
Range self; Power Resistance no
DESCRIPTION
The superhero can see through physical barriers. If successful, the superhero can see whatever lies on the other side as though there were no obstruction at all. Because seeing through things requires a degree of concentration, the superhero can only attempt to examine what is behind one wall, surface, or obstruction at a time.
In order to use this power, the superhero must choose a surface and examine it with a Perception check. If the check meets or exceeds a DC 20, the superhero will see through the barrier for as long as he likes. If the superhero looks away, his eyes refocus and he must start the process again in order to see through that particular object.
The superhero must use a move action to activate this power, but sustaining it is effectively free as long as he continues to look through the object he designates. The superhero can use this power to examine other characters for concealed weapons, armor, and items. The maximum range for Penetrating Vision is the same as his natural sight.
To look into a person’s body requires more subtlety than looking through them, so it takes a round (a single move action) to focus with enough precision. At the beginning of the second round, the superhero can then actually examine under someone’s skin. The superhero can see implants, tech devices, mundane or otherwise. Seeing into a creature’s body grants a +2 circumstance bonus to any attempt to diagnose and/or heal injury. To really learn anything from looking into someone’s body, the superhero has to have relevant skills in anatomy, and he can see only what he would see if their skin were removed. If, however, the superhero has Super Sight or Unusual Vision, he can combine it with Penetrating Vision and potentially learn other things about people’s insides.
Enhancements and limitations
- Enhancement: Reduced Power Drain (Cost: 2 JP): His Penetrating Vision no longer has an activation or sustained cost, but is still a Power.
- Enhancement: Swift Action Sight (Cost: 2 JP): The superhero can use Penetrating Vision as a swift action.