Mistinguish

Mistinguish is a fictional concept, primarily appearing in speculative fiction and role-playing games. It refers to a subtle, often magical or psionic, form of illusion or mental manipulation that causes confusion or misperception in a target. Unlike overt illusions that create false visual or auditory stimuli, mistinguish operates on a deeper level, affecting the target's ability to process information, recall memories, or make logical connections.

The effects of mistinguish can range from minor disorientation, such as forgetting why one entered a room, to significant alterations in perception, where familiar objects or individuals appear subtly wrong or even hostile. It is often employed by creatures or individuals who rely on stealth, subterfuge, or psychological warfare. The difficulty in detecting mistinguish lies in its insidious nature; victims may not realize they are being influenced, attributing their confusion to their own forgetfulness or stress.

Mechanically, in game systems, mistinguish might be represented by a mental saving throw or a skill check against the perpetrator's ability. Success could mean resisting the effect entirely, while failure might result in temporary penalties to perception, intelligence, or even a brief period of being charmed or confused. The concept allows for narrative elements where characters must rely on their wits and understanding of their surroundings to overcome unseen mental assaults.