Configure the dropdown
An administrator opens Rules configuration > SPAs / Edge abilities or Commander SCAs. Select the record and configure Required choice when acquired: a choice prompt label and allowed choices, one per line. The shared prompt applies across versions; optional version-specific lists override it. Blank override fields inherit the shared prompt. Leave the shared label and choices blank for no shared prompt.
Save the ability. Labels without options, options without labels and duplicate choices are rejected. Configuration is stored in the existing ability database; no schema update is required. The application does not guess allowed choices from prose or the original spreadsheet.
The selector loads records in place. Add and Save remain beside it while scrolling. Unsaved edits are retained when switching records with JavaScript. Without JavaScript, use Load selected ability and the normal Save form. SCA choice configuration does not add an SCA purchase workflow or acquire linked abilities.
Select a specialization
When choosing an ability during Draconis Reach conversion, its required dropdown appears in the Edge ability popover. Select one of the configured values. Type ahead filters the choices; a blank or forged value is rejected by the server. All personal SP and unlocked slots still must be allocated before finishing the rebuild.
A GM recording an SPA or Edge acquisition through Pilot abilities must also choose its required value. The choice is checked before any purchase debit. The selected specialization appears on the character, pilot card and printed ability rules reference.
A saved choice appears in parentheses, for example Range Master (Long). Other abilities can define their own prompt and options; choices are never inferred from rules prose.
Complete older acquired abilities
After a required choice is configured, older structured acquisitions without a selection show a required-selection form in Pilot abilities. The owning player or GM can supply the missing value without another SP charge, skill change or reopening a completed rebuild. An unresolved specialization prevents new deployment and has a saved-pilot correction link.
Valid acquired choices keep their saved dropdown definition and rules when the catalog changes. Abilities written only as free-text notes need the GM to record the actual acquisition and its catalog identity before a dropdown can be enforced; no identity is inferred from a display name. Locked or completed mission snapshots remain unchanged.