
In Mage, reality is not fixed but works according to agreed assumptions enforced by the collective will of humanity, the Sleepers. Mages are mortal people who “Awaken” — that is, come to recognize reality is not static — and realize they can change the world through their will, usually channeled through magickal-with-a-K rituals or “scientific” practices. The central theme of Mage is the search for Ascension, not only for the individual but for all of mankind. What Ascension is, and how it is achieved, is purposely left undefined.


- Mage: The Ascension 2nd Edition (retail price $17): The 314-page 1995 rulebook for creating Awakened mortals who shape reality.
- The Book of Shadows: The Mage Players Guide (retail $11): The indispensable character supplement with Traits, backgrounds, equipment, and invaluable counsel.
- The Book of Crafts (retail $10): Eight Disparate magickal societies outside the familiar factions of the Ascension War.
- The Technomancer’s Toybox (retail $9): A marvelous collection of gadgets for Virtual Adepts, Sons of Ether, Technocrats, and others.

- Guide to the Technocracy (retail $16): One of the finest Mage supplements, this comprehensive guide explains the Technocratic Union and lets you play as agents.
- The Book of Mirrors: Mage Storytellers Handbook (retail $11): A candid compendium of advice for running Mage Chronicles.
- Beyond the Barriers: The Book of Worlds (retail $13): A massive guide to the heavens, hells, Paradox realms, and mysterious Zones of the Umbra.
- The Book of Chantries (retail $11): Rules for creating your own magickal place of power, plus full descriptions of ten strongholds.
- The Book of Madness (retail $9): The 1995 first edition of the sourcebook about Nephandi, Marauders, Umbrood, and other dark mysticks.
- Hidden Lore (retail $9): An overflow book, originally included with the Mage Storyteller’s Screen, of goodies cut from the 2nd Edition rulebook.
- Ascension’s Right Hand (retail $9): All about the custos, the mortal (or not) followers and servants who help mages.