Vampire-Specific House Rules/Disciplines

Obtenebration 3: Arms of the Abyss

This post is the result of being a Vampire Staffer for over a decade. It has been found that there is a lack of clarity in what can be done with Obtenebration 3: Arms of the Abyss.

Arms of the Abyss are not the equivalent of Doc Ock’s tenacles. The power says “However, tentacles cannot be used for any kind of manipulation, such as typing or driving”. I wish to further expand that list.

Most of the time they are used for combat: you can use, as the power says, to grasp, restrain, or constrict foes. What it cannot do is ‘take the weapon away’ or ‘destroy the boutonniere on the collar’, unless it is wrapped around the head or neck and that crushing happens incidentally. The summoner cannot use the arms to form steps, or to have them grab the summoner and lower the caster down a hole or flight of stairs. It can be used to bash doors open ‘eventually’ or break windows. Although it has the word grasp, it is grasp as in take hold – it cannot open doors, or lift boxes, or operate levers. It is an attack power with limited utility after that. If in doubt, please feel free to check with staff beforehand. Staff have the final say in what is allowed and what it is not.

NB: There was in a previous supplement (I believed in Revised) which contradicts this interpretation. That is not used here.