Melee

is a new skillCategory:Skills to version 2 that partially replaces Base Attack Bonus.
== Attacking ==
 checks are performed when a character uses a weapon (including fists) to strike without disconnecting the weapon from body. This check opposes the opponent's Armor Class, Parry skill, or Dodge skill. If a tie becomes relevant, it will go to the character with the higher skill (if same skill, favors attacker).
== Ability Bonus ==
Normal melee weapons use Strength as their core ability. Finesse weapons use Dexterity, but if their Strength bonus is negative, it is applied as a penalty.
== Skill Ceiling ==
Only the first five ranks of the skill affect a normal weapon. Each rank of Masterwork raises this ceiling by 2. Finesse weapons increase this ceiling by a further point (2 if aimed). Ranks in excess of the weapon's skill ceiling can offset half of any attack penalty (rounded up) (e.g. due to ability penalties or special actions such as rapid fire, head shots, etc.).
Ability bonuses do not count towards the skill ceiling on any weapon. Natural weapons (such as claws) have a maximum skill ceiling of +10.