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A general term for methods used in play, whose specific definition varies. On rec.games.frp.advocacy, mechanic was defined as: "A formal method of resolution, which need not be numerical (i.e. Plot Points and Drama Deck cards are mechanics) but must be specific. A statement like "low roll good, lower roll better" is not considered a mechanic unless it is spelled out just how low is good. On the other hand, a statement like "a 02 or less is a critical" is a mechanic."
On The Forge, however, mechanics have been defined in Ron Edward's glossary as "Individual and specific features of System" -- where System is defined as: "The means by which imaginary events are established during play including character creation, resolution of imaginary events, reward procedures, and more. It may be considered to introduce fictional time into the Shared Imagined Space."
So universally, methods like rolling to hit and determining damage are considered mechanics. Methods such as drawing from the Fortune Deck in Everway are also widely considered mechanics. Gamemaster advice and unwritten informal understandings are less clear. They are termed mechanics by some at the Forge, but more commonly these are called "techniques" but not "mechanics". References:
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