Why was the Power/Skill approach to Psionics dropped in Fourth Edition?
Chiefly because it created a two-tier system, wherein some superhuman abilities were just advantages that required attribute rolls, while others were “powers” that came with improvable skills. We decided that it was fairer – and meshed super-powers and psi powers better, since they’re basically the same thing – to use a single mechanic for all superhuman abilities. The advantage/attribute roll model won out on the grounds of simplicity. Talent adds a “skill” component back in, and modifiers – like Reliable – can further modify things. Note that Powers will add quite a few more options.
