Example Data Table
| Power |
Ranks |
Base |
Extras |
Flaws |
Flat Mods |
Array Cost |
Removable |
Estimated Cost |
| Damage Blast |
10 |
1 |
1 |
0 |
0 |
1 |
None |
21 |
| Device Shield |
8 |
1 |
0 |
0 |
2 |
0 |
Removable |
8 |
| Slow Flight |
6 |
2 |
0 |
1 |
0 |
0 |
None |
6 |
| Limited Sense |
12 |
1 |
0 |
2 |
0 |
0 |
None |
4 |
Formula Used
Adjusted cost per rank = Base cost per rank + Extras per rank - Flaws per rank.
If adjusted cost is 1 or higher, Ranked cost = Ranks × Adjusted cost per rank.
If adjusted cost is 0 or lower, Ranked cost = ceiling(Ranks ÷ (2 - Adjusted cost per rank)).
Array cost = Normal alternate effects × 1 + Dynamic alternate effects × 2.
Subtotal = Ranked cost + Flat extras + Array cost - Flat flaws - Activation - Quirks.
Removable discount = floor(Subtotal ÷ 5) × removable rate.
Final cost = maximum of 1 and Subtotal minus removable discount.
How to Use This Calculator
Enter the power name first. Select a preset base type, or choose a custom base cost. Add the total ranks. Then enter ranked extras and ranked flaws. Add flat extras, flat flaws, activation points, quirks, and array effects. Choose a removable option when the power is a device. Press the calculate button. The result appears above the form and below the header.
M&M 3e Power Cost Planning
Power Cost Basics
Power cost is a core part of character design. It controls how strong a power can be. It also keeps heroes near the same build level. A small pricing error can change a whole sheet. This calculator helps you test that cost before play.
Ranks and Base Cost
Each power starts with a cost per rank. Damage often starts low. Movement, perception, area, or broad effects may cost more. Enter the rank you want. Then choose the base cost. The tool multiplies ranks when the adjusted cost stays positive.
Extras and Flaws
Extras raise the cost per rank. Flaws reduce it. The adjusted rate is the base cost plus extras, minus flaws. When the rate is one or higher, pricing is direct. When the rate falls to zero or lower, the rules use a fractional pattern. A zero rate means one point buys two ranks. A negative one rate means one point buys three ranks. Lower rates buy even more ranks.
Flat Modifiers and Arrays
Some modifiers do not scale by rank. Add those as flat extras or flat flaws. Alternate effects are also flat costs. A normal alternate effect usually adds one point. A dynamic alternate effect usually adds two points. The calculator keeps those values separate, so the final breakdown is easy to review.
Removable Discounts
Removable powers receive a discount after the power subtotal is known. A normal removable device subtracts one point per five points. An easily removable device subtracts two points per five points. The tool applies that discount and keeps the final cost at one point or more.
Better Table Checks
Use the example table to compare common builds. Try one power with no flaws. Then test the same rank with flaws, activation, or quirks. The difference shows the effect of each design choice.
Tabletop Use
This tool is a planning aid. Always compare the output with your group rules. Some campaigns restrict certain extras or broad effects. Others adjust arrays for balance. Save the CSV for notes. Export the PDF when you want a clean record for a session sheet. Document each assumption, because later edits become much easier. Clear math also helps game masters approve unusual powers.
FAQs
What does this calculator estimate?
It estimates the power point cost for an M&M 3e power. It uses ranks, base cost, ranked modifiers, flat modifiers, arrays, and removable discounts.
What is adjusted cost per rank?
Adjusted cost per rank is the base cost plus extras, minus flaws. It decides whether the calculator uses direct ranked pricing or fractional ranked pricing.
How are flaws handled?
Ranked flaws reduce the cost per rank. Flat flaws reduce the subtotal. The calculator separates both types so the final breakdown stays clear.
What happens when cost per rank becomes zero?
The calculator uses fractional cost. A zero adjusted rate means one power point buys two ranks. Negative rates allow more ranks per point.
How are alternate effects priced?
Normal alternate effects add one point each. Dynamic alternate effects add two points each. The calculator adds them as flat array costs.
How is removable discount applied?
The removable discount is applied after the subtotal is found. Removable subtracts one point per five points. Easily removable subtracts two points per five.
Can this replace rulebook review?
No. It is a planning aid. Always compare the result with your game master, campaign limits, and any custom table rules.
Why is the final cost never below one?
A power should not become free through discounts. The calculator keeps the final result at one point or more for safer planning.