I have a memory/idea from previous editions that Dermal Sheathing looks kinda like the X-manColossus's skin......but beyond that I am lost....

Reading the description in Augmentation it says it is a coating that is weaved into the users skin. This makes me think it is pretty much like orthoskin, not to obvious. But then it talks about modifying the texture like Dermal Plates....

Anybody have a good way of describing it?

That was the way it was pictured back in Cybertechnology, which was presumably covered by synthskin normally. I would assume the implantation methods have changed since '56 given the description in Augmentation.

As for describing it, basically it can be as obvious or subtle as the owner wants IMO.

I always imagined it as being a lot like normal skin, except with a texture issue. Ever seen someone with an old healed full-thickness burn, or something similar? You don't notice anything unless you're at conversational distances, and then you start to notice that the texture is off, or they aren't growing hair there, or something along those lines.

Waxy and smooth, is one way to think of it. Rough like sandpaper, and with lines kind of like a rough statue would be another. Depends on the style you want.

...don't forget, you can also get Dermal Sheathing with Ruthenium Polymers, so you can wear the SK logo proudly on your chest, literally.

I also think that no matter the level, it should still cover the whole body. The different levels just provide better protection and more unnatural texture, as well as allowing for the chameleon option.

While color-changing dermal sheaths and cyberlimbs were available in Cybertechnology, the ability to strip naked and be invisible wasn't available until Man and Machine.


Cybertechnology's dermal sheathing; notice the lack of nipples.

ah, nipples. the bane of all humanity...