I suppose my question comes from my visualization of this ability, so let me explain my example. If I am creating a character who can create an Energy Barrier that prevents people from Phasing through it, I can build it as follows;Affects Insubstantial
An effect with this extra works on insubstantial targets, in addition to having its normal effect on corporeal targets. Rank 1 allows the effect to work at half its normal rank against insubstantial targets (rounded down); rank 2 allows the effect to function at its full rank against them.
A whooping 12 Point ability, now, conceptually, he can create a barrier, up to 1000 cubic feet centered on his current position. Also, that barrier prevents an character with Insubstantial from crossing that threshold. Great! That makes sense to me ...Energy Barrier: Create 10 (Volume: 1000 cft., DC 20; Affects Insubstantial 2: full rank; Reduced Range: close)
Except wait ... Descriptors! So E=MC2 can create an Energy Barrier, such that people like Kitty Pride (who disperses her molecules), the Atom (who slips between ... well, atoms), or the Flash (who vibrates through physical objects) can't by pass the barrier. Ok, dandy, I am cool with that. Yet, I don't feel that this Barrier should stop Soul Siphon the Ghost, or Demon Delinquent, the Spirit of Angry Teens from crossing the threshold, as they are more of a mystical, or supernatural descriptor.
So is that a Quirk, resulting in a PP discount, a Power Loss for whenever the GM has a spirit slide through and soul noogie you, or just a case of GM fiat?
Just curious on other people's interpretations of how descriptors balance with mechanics.