The nature of Avatars is remarkably diverse. “Who or What is Playable” defines Avatars as potentially any sentient life form. This includes not only humanoids but also beasts, creatures with evolved minds, and even “gestalts” — composite beings formed from multiple life forms sharing a single consciousness. This diversity implies that Avatars themselves may possess certain inherent base traits or characteristics derived from their physical form, even before any GEAR is equipped. For instance, an avian Avatar might possess natural flight, a large bestial Avatar might have greater inherent strength or natural weaponry, and an aquatic Avatar would be suited to underwater environments.
This also defines the slots that an avatar may use. If they have a tail, then gear may be used for that slot only. If they have wings, then gear may be used for that slot only. If they have gills, then gear may be used for that slot only. Etc.
This presents a nuanced interaction with the “no innate powers” principle. While the soul grants no active abilities beyond the foundational core ability scores, the Avatar-as-vessel might come with certain physical realities. These are not powers in the sense of learned skills or magical effects, but rather intrinsic properties of the body inhabited.
The “Avatar Sheet” should therefore include sections for such base Avatar traits (e.g., Size, Movement Speed, Natural Senses, Natural Attacks if applicable, inherent environmental adaptations). These traits would then be augmented, modified, or even entirely superseded by the capabilities granted by equipped GEAR. The “Starting Avatar Kit” could also serve as a balancing mechanism, ensuring that Avatars with fewer advantageous “natural traits” receive compensatory basic equipment.