Modes

Modes
Transformers have at least two Modes: Robot, and either Beast, Vehicle or Object. Each Mode modifies the character's Equipment, Weapons, Propulsions, and Derived Specs, as well as places additional limitations on what they can do. However, at the same time, Modes enable additional action options -- especially regarding movement.

Modes influence a character's Derived Specs in addition to their available Equipment points for the Mode. No Mode may have a final Equipment Total below 0; if that happens, a character must either modify their Tech Specs to prevent it, or take Equipment Hinderances to make up the difference.

Form Aspect
Each Mode a character possesses comes with a Form Aspect which describes their appearance. See Aspects for full description.

Size
Transformers come in all sizes and forms. Smaller characters are harder to hit and find, but deal less damage in melee, have less leverage when lifting, and suffer greater damage when they are hit themselves. Larger characters are easier to hit and spot, but are harder to injure physically, can do more damage when unarmed, and can move objects easier.

Characters are free to choose whatever Size they like for their Robot Mode between Small and Monstrous. This size may vary by ±1 Size when they transform (though Equipment may increase this variation further)m, but may not go beyond this Size range. Only Titans may be Titanic Size Characters.

Leverage applies both to physical actions to move objects within an environment as well as Physical Stress inflicted when Brawling unarmed.

Transformations
While there are multiple advantages to being able to transform from a robot into something else, the primary reason Transformers evolved this defining characteristic was for increasing their abilities and equipment options. When transformed, each Transformer loses access to their Robot Mode Equipment, Weapons, and Propulsions, but gains access to a different set of Equipment, Weapons, and Propulsions entirely. Transformers trade their ability to interact with all of their gear at once for the ability to carry better tools and tricks. Additionally, Transformers may increase or decrease their Size by one rating as part of their transformed Mode.

Characters may transform at any point during their turn, but must remain in the chosen form until the start of their next turn.