> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.animarising.gg/docs/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.animarising.gg/docs/anima-rising/non-combat/mastery.md).

# Mastery

Master is a secondary system that provides experience in specific tasks. This expertise applies scalable modifiers, effectively allowing players to specialize in particular niches.

*Mastery* allows players to *specialize* and customize their playstyle without the limitations of factions, races, professions, or talents. This system lets you personalize your journey by attaining high-level *mastery* in a specific *task* or diversifying your focus across various areas.

It’s a flexible *secondary system* that allows you to gain proficiency in specific *tasks* or *combat* *actions*. 

The system works off *mastery* *nodes*, which are tied to almost every component in the game. 

Generally:

* *Gathering* and c*rafting* skills earn *mastery* by *item*, 
* *Esoteric* skills by *sub-skill* and 
* *Combat* skills by *action*.

The key constraint for player progression and *specialization* is time. This approach makes the game accessible across the time availability spectrum. More importantly, it rewards dedicated players who focus on specific *specializations*, as continued dedication to a particular *mastery* naturally creates an advantage similar to real-world expertise.

*Weapon* choice is one example of how this is applied. For example, each *weapon*, whether a *one-handed sword* or *two-handed maul*, adheres to the *mastery* system. In other words, you must practice with your chosen weapon to become proficient in its use. Note that this doesn't restrict you to any *weapon* type but allows you to differentiate yourself more easily as *mastery* scales, leading to better *combat* performance and a natural moat of expertise protected by time itself. 

*Mastery* is capped at level 99 per node, and there are over 900 nodes to explore. As such, you must optimize your strategy against time and plan your character development accordingly.

Given the robustness and complexities within this system, it’s earned a spot a bit deeper on our roadmap.