Alternity is a science fiction role-playing game (RPG) published by TSR in 1998. Following the acquisition of TSR by Wizards of the Coast, the game was discontinued in 2000 as part of a broader rationalisation of TSR's business holdings, but it retains a small but devoted fanbase.
From the Player's Handbook: The Alternity game is TSR's roleplaying game of modern action to far-future adventure. It's science fiction, in so much that it draws upon the speculative storytelling style that deals with the future, space and scientific breakthroughs yet to be made. It's a game of "what ifs."
What if... humanity develops a means to travel among the stars? What if... We aren't alone in the universe? What if... the world we know ends tomorrow? What if... alien entities invade our world?
No matter what supposition or speculative leap of imaginiation you come up with, as long as it is founded in a scientific (or quasiscientific) theory that's internally consistent, you're in the realm of science fiction. From a modern world that looks like today but features a technological twist that makes it a very different place (like a new weapon, computer or other device), to a far-future era where humanity has moved to other worlds, any setting and any technology is easily adapted for play.
The Alternity game, then, is a game of unlimited possibilities, exciting potentials, and imaginative "what ifs." The game system allows for may styles of play, though it never lets you lose sight of the fun of roleplaying. The rules are presented in the time-tested format that has made the Advanced Dungeons & Dragons game the best-selling troleplaying game of all time - two hardcover rules books, one for game referees (called Gamemasters in the Alternity game), that combine to create a complete and dynamic roleplaying game."
Near Mint condition cards show minimal or no wear from play or handling and will have an unmarked surface, crisp corners, and otherwise pristine edges outside of minimal handling. Near Mint condition cards appear 'fresh out of the pack,' with edges and surfaces virtually free from all flaws. '
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Lightly Played (LP)'
Lightly Played condition cards can have slight border or corner wear, or possibly minor scratches. No major defects are present, and there are less than 4 total flaws on the card. Lightly Played condition foils may have slight fading or indications of wear on the card face. '
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Moderately Played (MP)'
Moderately Played condition cards have moderate wear, or flaws apparent to the naked eye. Moderately Played condition cards can show moderate border wear, mild corner wear, water damage, scratches , creases or fading, light dirt buildup, or any combination of these defects. '
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Heavily Played (HP)'
Heavily Played condition cards exhibit signs of heavy wear. Heavily Played condition cards may include cards that have significant creasing, folding, severe water damage, heavy whitening, heavy border wear, and /or tearing. '
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Damaged (D)'
Damaged condition cards show obvious tears, bends, or creases that could make the card illegal for tournament play, even when sleeved. Damaged condition cards have massive border wear, possible writing or major inking (ex. white-bordered cards with black-markered front borders), massive corner wear, prevalent scratching, folds, creases or tears. '