diff --git a/bruno/neon-sprawl-server/ability-definitions/Get ability definitions.bru b/bruno/neon-sprawl-server/ability-definitions/Get ability definitions.bru
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..f851f56
--- /dev/null
+++ b/bruno/neon-sprawl-server/ability-definitions/Get ability definitions.bru	
@@ -0,0 +1,78 @@
+meta {
+  name: GET ability definitions
+  type: http
+  seq: 1
+}
+
+get {
+  url: {{baseUrl}}/game/world/ability-definitions
+  body: none
+  auth: none
+}
+
+tests {
+  test("returns 200 JSON with schema v1 and abilities array", function () {
+    expect(res.getStatus()).to.equal(200);
+    expect(res.getHeader("content-type")).to.contain("application/json");
+    const body = res.getBody();
+    expect(body.schemaVersion).to.equal(1);
+    expect(body.abilities).to.be.an("array");
+    expect(body.abilities.length).to.equal(4);
+  });
+
+  test("abilities are ascending by id (ordinal)", function () {
+    const body = res.getBody();
+    const ids = body.abilities.map((x) => x.id);
+    const sorted = [...ids].sort((a, b) => (a < b ? -1 : a > b ? 1 : 0));
+    expect(ids).to.eql(sorted);
+  });
+
+  test("frozen prototype four matches registry id order", function () {
+    const body = res.getBody();
+    const ids = body.abilities.map((x) => x.id);
+    expect(ids).to.eql([
+      "prototype_burst",
+      "prototype_dash",
+      "prototype_guard",
+      "prototype_pulse",
+    ]);
+  });
+
+  test("prototype_pulse row matches catalog", function () {
+    const body = res.getBody();
+    const row = body.abilities.find((x) => x.id === "prototype_pulse");
+    expect(row).to.be.an("object");
+    expect(row.displayName).to.equal("Prototype Pulse");
+    expect(row.baseDamage).to.equal(25);
+    expect(row.cooldownSeconds).to.equal(3);
+    expect(row.abilityKind).to.equal("attack");
+  });
+
+  test("prototype_burst row matches catalog", function () {
+    const body = res.getBody();
+    const row = body.abilities.find((x) => x.id === "prototype_burst");
+    expect(row).to.be.an("object");
+    expect(row.displayName).to.equal("Prototype Burst");
+    expect(row.baseDamage).to.equal(40);
+    expect(row.cooldownSeconds).to.equal(5);
+    expect(row.abilityKind).to.equal("attack");
+  });
+
+  test("prototype_guard row matches catalog", function () {
+    const body = res.getBody();
+    const row = body.abilities.find((x) => x.id === "prototype_guard");
+    expect(row).to.be.an("object");
+    expect(row.abilityKind).to.equal("utility");
+    expect(row.baseDamage).to.equal(0);
+    expect(row.cooldownSeconds).to.equal(6);
+  });
+
+  test("prototype_dash row matches catalog", function () {
+    const body = res.getBody();
+    const row = body.abilities.find((x) => x.id === "prototype_dash");
+    expect(row).to.be.an("object");
+    expect(row.abilityKind).to.equal("movement");
+    expect(row.baseDamage).to.equal(0);
+    expect(row.cooldownSeconds).to.equal(4);
+  });
+}
diff --git a/bruno/neon-sprawl-server/ability-definitions/folder.bru b/bruno/neon-sprawl-server/ability-definitions/folder.bru
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..575839c
--- /dev/null
+++ b/bruno/neon-sprawl-server/ability-definitions/folder.bru
@@ -0,0 +1,3 @@
+meta {
+  name: ability-definitions
+}
diff --git a/docs/decomposition/modules/E5_M1_CombatRulesEngine.md b/docs/decomposition/modules/E5_M1_CombatRulesEngine.md
index 4b588a7..7e72b5e 100644
--- a/docs/decomposition/modules/E5_M1_CombatRulesEngine.md
+++ b/docs/decomposition/modules/E5_M1_CombatRulesEngine.md
@@ -7,7 +7,7 @@
 | **Module ID** | E5.M1 |
 | **Epic** | [Epic 5 — PvE Combat](../epics/epic_05_pve_combat.md) |
 | **Stage target** | Prototype |
-| **Status** | In Progress — Slice 1 backlog [E5M1-prototype-backlog.md](../../plans/E5M1-prototype-backlog.md): E5M1-01 [NEO-76](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-76) ability catalog + CI landed; E5M1-02 [NEO-77](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-77) server load landed; E5M1-03 [NEO-79](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-79) registry + hotbar/cast migration landed; E5M1-04+ pending (see [dependency register](module_dependency_register.md)) |
+| **Status** | In Progress — Slice 1 backlog [E5M1-prototype-backlog.md](../../plans/E5M1-prototype-backlog.md): E5M1-01 [NEO-76](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-76) ability catalog + CI landed; E5M1-02 [NEO-77](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-77) server load landed; E5M1-03 [NEO-79](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-79) registry + hotbar/cast migration landed; E5M1-04 [NEO-78](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-78) ability-definitions GET landed; E5M1-05+ pending (see [dependency register](module_dependency_register.md)) |
 | **Linear** | Label **`E5.M1`** · [E5M1-prototype-backlog.md](../../plans/E5M1-prototype-backlog.md) **E5M1-01** [NEO-76](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-76) → **E5M1-12** [NEO-86](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-86); gig XP **E5M1-10** [NEO-44](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-44) |
 
 ## Purpose
@@ -50,6 +50,8 @@ Core tab-target combat resolution: valid actions against a locked target, hit re
 
 See Epic 5 **Slice 1 — Combat rules MVP**: target lock, basic attacks, 4–6 abilities, cooldowns/resources; telemetry `encounter_start`, `ability_used`, `player_death`, `enemy_defeat`.
 
+**E5M1-04 (NEO-78):** **`GET /game/world/ability-definitions`** — `AbilityDefinitionsWorldApi` + DTOs in `Game/Combat/` ([NEO-78 plan](../../plans/NEO-78-implementation-plan.md)); [server README — Ability definitions (NEO-78)](../../../server/README.md#ability-definitions-neo-78); Bruno `bruno/neon-sprawl-server/ability-definitions/`.
+
 ## Linear backlog (decomposed)
 
 Full story tables, kickoff defaults, and **`blockedBy` graph:** [E5M1-prototype-backlog.md](../../plans/E5M1-prototype-backlog.md).
diff --git a/docs/decomposition/modules/documentation_and_implementation_alignment.md b/docs/decomposition/modules/documentation_and_implementation_alignment.md
index 1d59e0d..c24cbfe 100644
--- a/docs/decomposition/modules/documentation_and_implementation_alignment.md
+++ b/docs/decomposition/modules/documentation_and_implementation_alignment.md
@@ -56,7 +56,7 @@ Rows appear when work starts; default for unlisted modules is **Planned** / not
 | E3.M1 | Ready | **NEO-41 landed (prototype, superseded on interact by NEO-63):** inline XP on **`resource_node`** interact. **NEO-57–NEO-61** — content, registry, HTTP defs, depletion store (see prior alignment). **NEO-62 landed:** **`GatherOperations`** + **`GatherResult`**. **NEO-63 landed:** **`POST …/interact`** **`resource_node`** → gather engine; **four** **`PrototypeInteractableRegistry`** anchors; Bruno gather → inventory + depletion deny ([NEO-63](../../plans/NEO-63-implementation-plan.md), [`NEO-63` manual QA](../../manual-qa/NEO-63.md)); [server README — Gather via interact (NEO-63)](../../../server/README.md#gather-via-interact-neo-63). **NEO-64 landed:** comment-only **`resource_gathered`** / **`gather_node_depleted`** hook sites in **`GatherOperations.TryGather`** ([NEO-64](../../plans/NEO-64-implementation-plan.md), [`NEO-64` manual QA](../../manual-qa/NEO-64.md)); Epic 3 Slice 2 backlog **E3M1-01**–**E3M1-08** complete. **NEO-73 landed:** client gather feedback — **`skill_progression_client.gd`**, **`prototype_interactable_picker.gd`** (nearest in-range **R**), **`GatherFeedbackLabel`** + **`SkillProgressionLabel`**, auto inventory/skill refresh after successful gather ([NEO-73](../../plans/NEO-73-implementation-plan.md), [`NEO-73` manual QA](../../manual-qa/NEO-73.md)); `client/README.md` gather section. **NEO-75 landed:** capstone gather→refine→make loop in Godot — [`NEO-75` manual QA](../../manual-qa/NEO-75.md), `client/README.md` end-to-end section; Epic 3 Slice 5 client complete. | [NEO-41](../../plans/NEO-41-implementation-plan.md) … [NEO-64](../../plans/NEO-64-implementation-plan.md), [NEO-73](../../plans/NEO-73-implementation-plan.md), [NEO-75](../../plans/NEO-75-implementation-plan.md), [E3S5-client-prototype-backlog](../../plans/E3S5-client-prototype-backlog.md), [E3_M1](E3_M1_ResourceNodeAndGatherLoop.md); `server/NeonSprawl.Server/Game/Gathering/`, `Game/Interaction/`, `client/scripts/skill_progression_client.gd`, `client/scripts/prototype_interactable_picker.gd` |
 | E3.M3 | In Progress | **NEO-50 landed:** frozen prototype six-item catalog in [`content/items/prototype_items.json`](../../../content/items/prototype_items.json); [`item-def.schema.json`](../../../content/schemas/item-def.schema.json); PR gate + [`validate_content.py`](../../../scripts/validate_content.py). **NEO-51 landed:** fail-fast server load of `content/items/*_items.json` at startup — `server/NeonSprawl.Server/Game/Items/` ([NEO-51](../../plans/NEO-51-implementation-plan.md)); [server README — Item catalog](../../../server/README.md#item-catalog-contentitems-neo-51). **NEO-52 landed:** injectable **`IItemDefinitionRegistry`** + lookup tests ([NEO-52](../../plans/NEO-52-implementation-plan.md)). **NEO-53 landed:** **`GET /game/world/item-definitions`** — `ItemDefinitionsWorldApi` + DTOs in `Game/Items/` ([NEO-53](../../plans/NEO-53-implementation-plan.md), [`NEO-53` manual QA](../../manual-qa/NEO-53.md)); [server README — Item definitions (NEO-53)](../../../server/README.md#item-definitions-neo-53); Bruno `bruno/neon-sprawl-server/item-definitions/`. **NEO-54 landed:** **`IPlayerInventoryStore`** + **`PlayerInventoryOperations`** — 24 bag + 1 equipment slots, stack rules, `V005` migration ([NEO-54](../../plans/NEO-54-implementation-plan.md)). **NEO-55 landed:** **`GET`/`POST /game/players/{id}/inventory`** — `PlayerInventoryApi` + DTOs in `Game/Items/` ([NEO-55](../../plans/NEO-55-implementation-plan.md)); [server README — Player inventory (NEO-54 store, NEO-55 HTTP)](../../../server/README.md#player-inventory-neo-54-store-neo-55-http); Bruno `bruno/neon-sprawl-server/inventory/`. **NEO-56 landed:** comment-only **`item_created`** / **`inventory_transfer_denied`** telemetry hook sites in [`PlayerInventoryOperations`](../../../server/NeonSprawl.Server/Game/Items/PlayerInventoryOperations.cs) ([NEO-56](../../plans/NEO-56-implementation-plan.md), [`NEO-56` manual QA](../../manual-qa/NEO-56.md)); no E9.M1 ingest. **NEO-72 landed:** client inventory HUD — **`inventory_client.gd`**, **`item_definitions_client.gd`**, **`InventoryLabel`**, boot hydrate + **`I`** refresh ([NEO-72](../../plans/NEO-72-implementation-plan.md), [`NEO-72` manual QA](../../manual-qa/NEO-72.md)); `client/README.md` inventory HUD section. **NEO-75 landed:** **`prototype_economy_hud_section.gd`** collapse toggle + capstone manual QA ([NEO-75](../../plans/NEO-75-implementation-plan.md), [`NEO-75` manual QA](../../manual-qa/NEO-75.md)); Epic 3 Slice 5 client complete. | [NEO-50](../../plans/NEO-50-implementation-plan.md), [NEO-51](../../plans/NEO-51-implementation-plan.md), [NEO-52](../../plans/NEO-52-implementation-plan.md), [NEO-53](../../plans/NEO-53-implementation-plan.md), [NEO-54](../../plans/NEO-54-implementation-plan.md), [NEO-55](../../plans/NEO-55-implementation-plan.md), [NEO-56](../../plans/NEO-56-implementation-plan.md), [NEO-72](../../plans/NEO-72-implementation-plan.md), [NEO-75](../../plans/NEO-75-implementation-plan.md), [E3S5-client-prototype-backlog](../../plans/E3S5-client-prototype-backlog.md), [E3M3-prototype-backlog](../../plans/E3M3-prototype-backlog.md), [E3_M3](E3_M3_ItemizationAndInventorySchema.md) |
 | E3.M2 | Ready | **NEO-65 landed:** frozen prototype eight-recipe catalog in [`content/recipes/prototype_recipes.json`](../../../content/recipes/prototype_recipes.json); [`recipe-def.schema.json`](../../../content/schemas/recipe-def.schema.json) + [`recipe-io-row.schema.json`](../../../content/schemas/recipe-io-row.schema.json); PR gate + [`validate_content.py`](../../../scripts/validate_content.py) Slice 3 gates ([NEO-65](../../plans/NEO-65-implementation-plan.md)). **NEO-66 landed:** fail-fast server load of `content/recipes/*_recipes.json` at startup — `server/NeonSprawl.Server/Game/Crafting/` ([NEO-66](../../plans/NEO-66-implementation-plan.md)); [server README — Recipe catalog](../../../server/README.md#recipe-catalog-contentrecipes-neo-66). **NEO-67 landed:** injectable **`IRecipeDefinitionRegistry`** + lookup tests ([NEO-67](../../plans/NEO-67-implementation-plan.md)). **NEO-68 landed:** **`GET /game/world/recipe-definitions`** — `RecipeDefinitionsWorldApi` + DTOs in `Game/Crafting/` ([NEO-68](../../plans/NEO-68-implementation-plan.md), [`NEO-68` manual QA](../../manual-qa/NEO-68.md)); [server README — Recipe definitions (NEO-68)](../../../server/README.md#recipe-definitions-neo-68); Bruno `bruno/neon-sprawl-server/recipe-definitions/`. **NEO-69 landed:** **`CraftOperations.TryCraft`** + **`CraftResult`** — pre-flight inputs/outputs, inventory mutation, refine XP ([NEO-69](../../plans/NEO-69-implementation-plan.md)); [server README — Craft engine (NEO-69)](../../../server/README.md#craft-engine-neo-69-and-craft-http-neo-70). **NEO-70 landed:** **`POST /game/players/{id}/craft`** — `PlayerCraftApi` + wire **`CraftResponse`**; Bruno gather→refine→make spine ([NEO-70](../../plans/NEO-70-implementation-plan.md)); Bruno `bruno/neon-sprawl-server/craft/`. **NEO-71 landed:** comment-only **`item_crafted`** / **`craft_failed`** telemetry hook sites in **`CraftOperations.TryCraft`** ([NEO-71](../../plans/NEO-71-implementation-plan.md)); [server README — Craft telemetry hooks (NEO-71)](../../../server/README.md#craft-telemetry-hooks-neo-71). **NEO-42 landed (prep):** **`RefineActivitySkillXpGrant`** / **`RefineSkillXpConstants`** — wired from craft engine success path. Epic 3 Slice 3 server backlog **E3M2-01**–**E3M2-07** complete. Upstream: E3.M1 **Ready**, E3.M3 inventory landed. **NEO-74 landed:** client craft UI — **`recipe_definitions_client.gd`**, **`craft_client.gd`**, **`craft_recipe_panel.gd`**, **`CraftFeedbackLabel`**, **refine** skill row ([NEO-74](../../plans/NEO-74-implementation-plan.md), [`NEO-74` manual QA](../../manual-qa/NEO-74.md)); `client/README.md` craft section. **NEO-75 landed:** capstone playable gather→refine→make loop — [`NEO-75` manual QA](../../manual-qa/NEO-75.md), **`prototype_economy_hud_section.gd`**; Epic 3 Slice 5 client complete. | [NEO-42](../../plans/NEO-42-implementation-plan.md), [NEO-65](../../plans/NEO-65-implementation-plan.md), [NEO-66](../../plans/NEO-66-implementation-plan.md), [NEO-67](../../plans/NEO-67-implementation-plan.md), [NEO-68](../../plans/NEO-68-implementation-plan.md), [NEO-69](../../plans/NEO-69-implementation-plan.md), [NEO-70](../../plans/NEO-70-implementation-plan.md), [NEO-71](../../plans/NEO-71-implementation-plan.md), [NEO-74](../../plans/NEO-74-implementation-plan.md), [NEO-75](../../plans/NEO-75-implementation-plan.md), [E3M2-prototype-backlog](../../plans/E3M2-prototype-backlog.md), [E3S5-client-prototype-backlog](../../plans/E3S5-client-prototype-backlog.md), [E3_M2](E3_M2_RefinementAndRecipeExecution.md) |
-| E5.M1 | In Progress | **NEO-76 landed:** frozen prototype four-ability catalog in [`content/abilities/prototype_abilities.json`](../../../content/abilities/prototype_abilities.json); [`ability-def.schema.json`](../../../content/schemas/ability-def.schema.json); PR gate + [`validate_content.py`](../../../scripts/validate_content.py) E5M1 four-id gate ([NEO-76](../../plans/NEO-76-implementation-plan.md)). **NEO-77 landed:** fail-fast server load of `content/abilities/*_abilities.json` at startup — `server/NeonSprawl.Server/Game/Combat/` ([NEO-77](../../plans/NEO-77-implementation-plan.md)); [server README — Ability catalog](../../../server/README.md#ability-catalog-contentabilities-neo-77). **NEO-79 landed:** injectable **`IAbilityDefinitionRegistry`** + DI; hotbar/cast use **`TryNormalizeKnown`** ([NEO-79](../../plans/NEO-79-implementation-plan.md)); Bruno `bruno/neon-sprawl-server/hotbar-loadout/` + `ability-cast/` unknown-ability deny smokes. **Backlog decomposed:** Epic 5 Slice 1 — [E5M1-prototype-backlog.md](../../plans/E5M1-prototype-backlog.md) **E5M1-04** [NEO-78](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-78) through **E5M1-12** [NEO-86](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-86); gig XP **E5M1-10** [NEO-44](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-44). **Precursor landed:** E1.M4 cast funnel (NEO-28/31/32) — **`POST …/ability-cast`** accepts without **`CombatResolution`** yet. | [E5M1-prototype-backlog.md](../../plans/E5M1-prototype-backlog.md), [E5_M1](E5_M1_CombatRulesEngine.md), [NEO-77](../../plans/NEO-77-implementation-plan.md), [NEO-79](../../plans/NEO-79-implementation-plan.md), [E1M4-prototype-backlog.md](../../plans/E1M4-prototype-backlog.md) |
+| E5.M1 | In Progress | **NEO-76 landed:** frozen prototype four-ability catalog in [`content/abilities/prototype_abilities.json`](../../../content/abilities/prototype_abilities.json); [`ability-def.schema.json`](../../../content/schemas/ability-def.schema.json); PR gate + [`validate_content.py`](../../../scripts/validate_content.py) E5M1 four-id gate ([NEO-76](../../plans/NEO-76-implementation-plan.md)). **NEO-77 landed:** fail-fast server load of `content/abilities/*_abilities.json` at startup — `server/NeonSprawl.Server/Game/Combat/` ([NEO-77](../../plans/NEO-77-implementation-plan.md)); [server README — Ability catalog](../../../server/README.md#ability-catalog-contentabilities-neo-77). **NEO-79 landed:** injectable **`IAbilityDefinitionRegistry`** + DI; hotbar/cast use **`TryNormalizeKnown`** ([NEO-79](../../plans/NEO-79-implementation-plan.md)); Bruno `bruno/neon-sprawl-server/hotbar-loadout/` + `ability-cast/` unknown-ability deny smokes. **NEO-78 landed:** **`GET /game/world/ability-definitions`** — `AbilityDefinitionsWorldApi` + DTOs in `Game/Combat/` ([NEO-78](../../plans/NEO-78-implementation-plan.md)); [server README — Ability definitions (NEO-78)](../../../server/README.md#ability-definitions-neo-78); Bruno `bruno/neon-sprawl-server/ability-definitions/`. **Backlog decomposed:** Epic 5 Slice 1 — [E5M1-prototype-backlog.md](../../plans/E5M1-prototype-backlog.md) **E5M1-05** [NEO-80](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-80) through **E5M1-12** [NEO-86](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-86); gig XP **E5M1-10** [NEO-44](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-44). **Precursor landed:** E1.M4 cast funnel (NEO-28/31/32) — **`POST …/ability-cast`** accepts without **`CombatResolution`** yet. | [E5M1-prototype-backlog.md](../../plans/E5M1-prototype-backlog.md), [E5_M1](E5_M1_CombatRulesEngine.md), [NEO-77](../../plans/NEO-77-implementation-plan.md), [NEO-79](../../plans/NEO-79-implementation-plan.md), [NEO-78](../../plans/NEO-78-implementation-plan.md), [E1M4-prototype-backlog.md](../../plans/E1M4-prototype-backlog.md) |
 
 ---
 
diff --git a/docs/decomposition/modules/module_dependency_register.md b/docs/decomposition/modules/module_dependency_register.md
index d76623c..b7ae1e8 100644
--- a/docs/decomposition/modules/module_dependency_register.md
+++ b/docs/decomposition/modules/module_dependency_register.md
@@ -76,7 +76,7 @@ Fleshed-out scope, contracts, and integration notes live in **per-module documen
 | E5.M3 | EncounterAndRewardTables | E5.M1, E3.M3, E7.M2 | EncounterDef, RewardTable, EncounterCompleteEvent | Prototype | Planned |
 | E5.M4 | GroupCombatScaling | E5.M3, E8.M1 | ScalingProfile, PartySizeModifier, CombatDifficultyBand | Pre-production | Planned |
 
-**E5.M1 note:** Epic 5 **Slice 1** backlog in Linear ([Epic 5 — PvE Combat and Encounter Content](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/project/epic-5-pve-combat-and-encounter-content-cf3c94c3-5346-40e0-8aaf-281e846f2846)): [NEO-76](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-76) → [NEO-86](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-86); label **`E5.M1`**. Gig XP on defeat: **E5M1-10** [NEO-44](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-44). See [E5M1-prototype-backlog.md](../../plans/E5M1-prototype-backlog.md), [E5_M1_CombatRulesEngine.md](E5_M1_CombatRulesEngine.md). Builds on E1.M4 cast funnel (NEO-28/31/32); extends **`POST …/ability-cast`** with **`CombatResolution`**. **NEO-76 landed:** frozen four-ability catalog + CI ([NEO-76 plan](../../plans/NEO-76-implementation-plan.md)). **NEO-77 landed:** fail-fast server load of `content/abilities/*_abilities.json` ([NEO-77 plan](../../plans/NEO-77-implementation-plan.md)). **NEO-79 landed:** injectable **`IAbilityDefinitionRegistry`** + DI; hotbar/cast use **`TryNormalizeKnown`** ([NEO-79 plan](../../plans/NEO-79-implementation-plan.md)).
+**E5.M1 note:** Epic 5 **Slice 1** backlog in Linear ([Epic 5 — PvE Combat and Encounter Content](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/project/epic-5-pve-combat-and-encounter-content-cf3c94c3-5346-40e0-8aaf-281e846f2846)): [NEO-76](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-76) → [NEO-86](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-86); label **`E5.M1`**. Gig XP on defeat: **E5M1-10** [NEO-44](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-44). See [E5M1-prototype-backlog.md](../../plans/E5M1-prototype-backlog.md), [E5_M1_CombatRulesEngine.md](E5_M1_CombatRulesEngine.md). Builds on E1.M4 cast funnel (NEO-28/31/32); extends **`POST …/ability-cast`** with **`CombatResolution`**. **NEO-76 landed:** frozen four-ability catalog + CI ([NEO-76 plan](../../plans/NEO-76-implementation-plan.md)). **NEO-77 landed:** fail-fast server load of `content/abilities/*_abilities.json` ([NEO-77 plan](../../plans/NEO-77-implementation-plan.md)). **NEO-79 landed:** injectable **`IAbilityDefinitionRegistry`** + DI; hotbar/cast use **`TryNormalizeKnown`** ([NEO-79 plan](../../plans/NEO-79-implementation-plan.md)). **NEO-78 landed:** **`GET /game/world/ability-definitions`** — `AbilityDefinitionsWorldApi` + DTOs in `Game/Combat/` ([NEO-78 plan](../../plans/NEO-78-implementation-plan.md)); Bruno `bruno/neon-sprawl-server/ability-definitions/`.
 
 ### Epic 6 — PvP Security
 
diff --git a/docs/plans/E5M1-prototype-backlog.md b/docs/plans/E5M1-prototype-backlog.md
index 47fd303..45dc327 100644
--- a/docs/plans/E5M1-prototype-backlog.md
+++ b/docs/plans/E5M1-prototype-backlog.md
@@ -154,7 +154,7 @@ Working backlog for **Epic 5 — Slice 1** ([combat rules MVP](../decomposition/
 
 - `GET /game/world/ability-definitions` → list DTO (`schemaVersion`, `abilities[]` with id, displayName, baseDamage, cooldownSeconds, abilityKind).
 - API + integration tests (AAA); Bruno folder `bruno/neon-sprawl-server/ability-definitions/`.
-- `server/README.md`; manual QA stub if needed.
+- `server/README.md`; no manual QA (server-only per NEO-78 kickoff).
 
 **Out of scope**
 
@@ -162,8 +162,10 @@ Working backlog for **Epic 5 — Slice 1** ([combat rules MVP](../decomposition/
 
 **Acceptance criteria**
 
-- [ ] GET returns all four prototype abilities with stable field names.
-- [ ] Bruno happy path documents response shape.
+- [x] GET returns all four prototype abilities with stable field names.
+- [x] Bruno happy path documents response shape.
+
+**Landed ([NEO-78](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-78)):** **`GET /game/world/ability-definitions`** — `AbilityDefinitionsWorldApi` + DTOs in `Game/Combat/` ([NEO-78-implementation-plan.md](NEO-78-implementation-plan.md)); Bruno `bruno/neon-sprawl-server/ability-definitions/`.
 
 **Client counterpart:** optional enrichment in [NEO-85](#e5m1-11--client-combat-feedback--target-hp-hud) — not a separate issue.
 
diff --git a/docs/plans/NEO-78-implementation-plan.md b/docs/plans/NEO-78-implementation-plan.md
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..0fc6031
--- /dev/null
+++ b/docs/plans/NEO-78-implementation-plan.md
@@ -0,0 +1,126 @@
+# NEO-78 — Implementation plan
+
+## Story reference
+
+| Field | Value |
+|--------|--------|
+| **Key** | NEO-78 |
+| **Title** | E5M1-04: GET /game/world/ability-definitions |
+| **Linear** | https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-78/e5m1-04-get-gameworldability-definitions |
+| **Module** | [E5.M1 — CombatRulesEngine](../decomposition/modules/E5_M1_CombatRulesEngine.md) · Epic 5 Slice 1 · backlog **E5M1-04** |
+| **Branch** | `NEO-78-get-world-ability-definitions` |
+| **Precursor** | [NEO-79](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-79) — `IAbilityDefinitionRegistry` + DI (**Done** on `main`) |
+| **Pattern** | [NEO-68](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-68) — `GET /game/world/recipe-definitions`; [NEO-53](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-53) — item definitions world GET |
+| **Client counterpart** | None (server-only); optional client enrichment in [NEO-85](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-85) via this HTTP route |
+
+## Kickoff clarifications
+
+| Topic | Question | Agent recommendation | Answer |
+|--------|----------|----------------------|--------|
+| **Manual QA doc** | Add `docs/manual-qa/NEO-78.md`? | **Yes** — NEO-68 pattern for world GET HTTP. | **User:** skip — manual QA only when there are client-facing changes; this story is server-only (Bruno + automated tests suffice). |
+| **Optional `abilityKind`** | Emit when row has no kind? | **Omit property when null** — NEO-68 “loaded fields only”; all four prototype rows have a kind today. | **User:** omit when null. |
+
+No other blocking decisions — route path, envelope (`schemaVersion` **1**, **`abilities`** array), row fields, registry injection, and frozen four-id order are specified in [E5M1-04](E5M1-prototype-backlog.md#e5m1-04--get-gameworldability-definitions) and [E5.M1 freeze box](../decomposition/modules/E5_M1_CombatRulesEngine.md#prototype-slice-1-freeze-e5m1-01).
+
+## Goal, scope, and out-of-scope
+
+**Goal:** Expose a stable, read-only JSON endpoint that returns all four loaded prototype ability definitions for Bruno, tooling, and optional client preview ([NEO-85](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-85)) — backed by **`IAbilityDefinitionRegistry`** without duplicating catalog truth.
+
+**In scope (from Linear + [E5M1-04](E5M1-prototype-backlog.md#e5m1-04--get-gameworldability-definitions)):**
+
+- **`GET /game/world/ability-definitions`** with versioned envelope (`schemaVersion` **1**, **`abilities`** array).
+- Row fields: **`id`**, **`displayName`**, **`baseDamage`**, **`cooldownSeconds`**, **`abilityKind`** (omit when null).
+- Abilities ordered by **`id`** ordinal, matching **`GetDefinitionsInIdOrder()`**.
+- Bruno folder `bruno/neon-sprawl-server/ability-definitions/`.
+- `server/README.md` section.
+- API integration tests (AAA).
+
+**Out of scope (from Linear + backlog):**
+
+- Godot HUD / client wiring ([NEO-85](https://linear.app/neon-sprawl/issue/NEO-85)).
+- Combat resolution, damage application, cooldown commit ([NEO-80+](E5M1-prototype-backlog.md)).
+- Per-player ability state or loadout mutation.
+- `docs/manual-qa/NEO-78.md` (server-only; no client-facing changes per kickoff).
+
+## Acceptance criteria checklist
+
+- [x] GET returns all **four** prototype abilities with **`schemaVersion`** **1** and stable field names (`id`, `displayName`, `baseDamage`, `cooldownSeconds`, `abilityKind` when present).
+- [x] Bruno happy path documents response shape and runs against dev server.
+- [x] Automated API tests (AAA) assert four ids in registry order and spot-check metadata.
+
+## Technical approach
+
+1. **Route:** **`GET /game/world/ability-definitions`** — parameterless read; inject **`IAbilityDefinitionRegistry`** only (not **`AbilityDefinitionCatalog`**).
+
+2. **Response shape:** Top-level **`schemaVersion`** (`AbilityDefinitionsListResponse.CurrentSchemaVersion` = **1**) plus **`abilities`** array. Each row maps from **`AbilityDefRow`**: **`id`**, **`displayName`**, **`baseDamage`**, **`cooldownSeconds`**, **`abilityKind`**. Use **`JsonIgnore(Condition = JsonIgnoreCondition.WhenWritingNull)`** on **`abilityKind`** so absent kinds are omitted from JSON.
+
+3. **Ordering:** Build list from **`registry.GetDefinitionsInIdOrder()`** (already ordinal by id). Tests assert exact id sequence (frozen four from [E5.M1 freeze box](../decomposition/modules/E5_M1_CombatRulesEngine.md#prototype-slice-1-freeze-e5m1-01)):
+
+   `prototype_burst`, `prototype_dash`, `prototype_guard`, `prototype_pulse`
+
+   (ordinal sort of the four ids — same order as **`AbilityDefinitionRegistryTests`** / catalog keys).
+
+4. **Implementation:** New **`AbilityDefinitionsWorldApi`** + **`AbilityDefinitionsListDtos.cs`** in `Game/Combat/` (mirror [`RecipeDefinitionsWorldApi`](../../server/NeonSprawl.Server/Game/Crafting/RecipeDefinitionsWorldApi.cs)). Wire **`app.MapAbilityDefinitionsWorldApi()`** from **`Program.cs`** next to other world definition APIs (after **`MapRecipeDefinitionsWorldApi()`**).
+
+5. **Bruno:** `bruno/neon-sprawl-server/ability-definitions/` with **`Get ability definitions.bru`** + **`folder.bru`**. Tests: 200, JSON, **`schemaVersion` 1**, **`abilities.length === 4`**, ascending id order, **exact frozen-four registry sequence**, spot-check **`prototype_pulse`** (`baseDamage` 25, `cooldownSeconds` 3.0, `abilityKind` `attack`) and **`prototype_burst`** (`baseDamage` 40, `cooldownSeconds` 5.0, `abilityKind` `attack`).
+
+6. **Docs:** Update **`server/README.md`** ability-catalog section with GET + curl example. Update [E5_M1](E5_M1_CombatRulesEngine.md) **Related implementation slices** and [documentation_and_implementation_alignment.md](documentation_and_implementation_alignment.md) E5.M1 row when landed.
+
+### Expected prototype row values (from content)
+
+| `id` | `displayName` | `baseDamage` | `cooldownSeconds` | `abilityKind` |
+|------|---------------|--------------|-------------------|---------------|
+| `prototype_pulse` | Prototype Pulse | 25 | 3.0 | `attack` |
+| `prototype_guard` | Prototype Guard | 0 | 6.0 | `utility` |
+| `prototype_dash` | Prototype Dash | 0 | 4.0 | `movement` |
+| `prototype_burst` | Prototype Burst | 40 | 5.0 | `attack` |
+
+## Files to add
+
+| Path | Purpose |
+|------|---------|
+| `server/NeonSprawl.Server/Game/Combat/AbilityDefinitionsWorldApi.cs` | `Map*` extension registering GET route; maps registry → JSON. |
+| `server/NeonSprawl.Server/Game/Combat/AbilityDefinitionsListDtos.cs` | Versioned response + row DTOs for JSON serialization. |
+| `server/NeonSprawl.Server.Tests/Game/Combat/AbilityDefinitionsWorldApiTests.cs` | HTTP integration: 200, schema v1, four ids in order, spot-check rows. |
+| `bruno/neon-sprawl-server/ability-definitions/Get ability definitions.bru` | Manual / Bruno verification against dev server. |
+| `bruno/neon-sprawl-server/ability-definitions/folder.bru` | Bruno folder metadata (match `recipe-definitions`). |
+| `docs/plans/NEO-78-implementation-plan.md` | This plan. |
+
+## Files to modify
+
+| Path | Rationale |
+|------|-----------|
+| `server/NeonSprawl.Server/Program.cs` | Register `MapAbilityDefinitionsWorldApi()` alongside other game world definition APIs. |
+| `server/README.md` | Document `GET /game/world/ability-definitions`, curl example, links to plan/Bruno. |
+| `docs/decomposition/modules/E5_M1_CombatRulesEngine.md` | **Related implementation slices** — HTTP read model bullet (NEO-78). |
+| `docs/decomposition/modules/documentation_and_implementation_alignment.md` | E5.M1 row — note NEO-78 HTTP projection when landed. |
+
+## Tests
+
+| File | Coverage |
+|------|----------|
+| `server/NeonSprawl.Server.Tests/Game/Combat/AbilityDefinitionsWorldApiTests.cs` | **Integration:** `GET /game/world/ability-definitions` via **`InMemoryWebApplicationFactory`**; **`ReadFromJsonAsync`**; assert **`schemaVersion` 1**; **`abilities`** count **4**; ordered **`id`** list equals frozen four in ordinal id order; spot-check **`prototype_pulse`** and **`prototype_burst`** damage/cooldown/kind. **AAA** per [csharp-style](../../.cursor/rules/csharp-style.md). |
+
+Bruno scripts complement automated tests for manual dev-server verification. No `docs/manual-qa/NEO-78.md` (server-only per kickoff).
+
+## Open questions / risks
+
+| Question / risk | Agent recommendation | Status |
+|-----------------|---------------------|--------|
+| **Linear blockedBy NEO-79** | Branch from **`main`** where NEO-79 is merged (confirmed at kickoff; branch fast-forwarded). | **adopted** |
+| **Optional fields later** | When content adds new optional ability-def fields, bump **`schemaVersion`** or extend v1 in a follow-up issue. | **deferred** |
+| **Client not in this story** | Cross-link **NEO-85** in plan; Bruno is not prototype-complete per [full-stack epic decomposition](../../.cursor/rules/full-stack-epic-decomposition.md). | **adopted** |
+| **`cooldownSeconds` JSON type** | Emit as JSON **number** (double) matching content schema; tests assert numeric equality. | **adopted** |
+
+## Decisions (kickoff)
+
+- **No manual QA doc** — server-only HTTP; Bruno + automated tests (user confirmed).
+- **`abilityKind` omitted when null** — v1 contract emits loaded fields only (user confirmed).
+- **Registry-only injection** — HTTP layer depends on **`IAbilityDefinitionRegistry`**, not **`AbilityDefinitionCatalog`**.
+
+## Reconciliation (implementation)
+
+- **`AbilityDefinitionsWorldApi`** + **`AbilityDefinitionsListDtos`** registered via **`MapAbilityDefinitionsWorldApi()`** in **`Program.cs`**; injects **`IAbilityDefinitionRegistry`** only.
+- **`AbilityDefinitionsWorldApiTests`** — integration test for schema v1, frozen-four id order, **`prototype_pulse`** / **`prototype_burst`** spot-checks.
+- **Bruno:** `bruno/neon-sprawl-server/ability-definitions/Get ability definitions.bru` with response-shape tests.
+- **`server/README.md`**, **E5.M1** module doc, **alignment register**, and **E5M1 backlog** updated.
diff --git a/docs/reviews/2026-05-24-NEO-78.md b/docs/reviews/2026-05-24-NEO-78.md
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..dc03be1
--- /dev/null
+++ b/docs/reviews/2026-05-24-NEO-78.md
@@ -0,0 +1,63 @@
+# Code review — NEO-78 GET world ability-definitions
+
+**Date:** 2026-05-24  
+**Scope:** Branch `NEO-78-get-world-ability-definitions` · commits `374b4b5`–`44e0056` vs `origin/main`  
+**Base:** `origin/main`
+
+**Follow-up:** Code review suggestions addressed (dependency register, E5M1 backlog in-scope line, test count assert, Bruno cleanup + guard/dash spot-checks).
+
+## Verdict
+
+**Approve with nits**
+
+## Summary
+
+NEO-78 delivers **E5M1-04**: a read-only **`GET /game/world/ability-definitions`** endpoint backed by **`IAbilityDefinitionRegistry.GetDefinitionsInIdOrder()`**, with versioned DTOs (`schemaVersion` **1**, **`abilities`** array), row projection (`id`, `displayName`, `baseDamage`, `cooldownSeconds`, optional **`abilityKind`** omitted when null), Bruno coverage, and an AAA integration test asserting the frozen-four id order plus **`prototype_pulse`** / **`prototype_burst`** spot-checks. Implementation closely mirrors the landed NEO-68 recipe-definitions and NEO-53 item-definitions patterns; no auth, no second catalog source, no client wiring (deferred to NEO-85). Residual risk is low — additive HTTP read model on existing registry truth.
+
+## Documentation checked
+
+| Document | Result |
+|----------|--------|
+| [`docs/plans/NEO-78-implementation-plan.md`](../plans/NEO-78-implementation-plan.md) | **Matches** — kickoff decisions (no manual QA, omit null `abilityKind`, registry-only injection); acceptance checklist complete; reconciliation section reflects landed files. |
+| [`docs/plans/E5M1-prototype-backlog.md`](../plans/E5M1-prototype-backlog.md) · **E5M1-04** | **Matches** — AC checkboxes checked; landed note with plan + Bruno links; in-scope line reflects no manual QA (server-only kickoff). |
+| [`docs/decomposition/modules/E5_M1_CombatRulesEngine.md`](../decomposition/modules/E5_M1_CombatRulesEngine.md) | **Matches** — Status cites NEO-78 landed; **Related implementation slices** HTTP bullet added; freeze table ids align with test assertions. |
+| [`docs/decomposition/modules/documentation_and_implementation_alignment.md`](../decomposition/modules/documentation_and_implementation_alignment.md) | **Matches** — E5.M1 row includes NEO-78 HTTP projection + Bruno folder. |
+| [`docs/decomposition/modules/module_dependency_register.md`](../decomposition/modules/module_dependency_register.md) | **Matches** — E5.M1 note includes NEO-78 GET + Bruno folder. |
+| [`docs/decomposition/modules/client_server_authority.md`](../decomposition/modules/client_server_authority.md) | **Matches** — read-only world catalog; server source of truth; no client mutation in this story. |
+| NEO-68 / NEO-53 reference implementations | **Matches** — `AbilityDefinitionsWorldApi` + separate DTO file mirror `RecipeDefinitionsWorldApi` / `ItemDefinitionsWorldApi`; integration test shape matches `RecipeDefinitionsWorldApiTests`. |
+| Full-stack epic decomposition | **Matches** — plan documents no client counterpart; NEO-85 optional enrichment; does not claim prototype slice complete without Godot. |
+| [`server/README.md`](../../server/README.md) | **Matches** — new **Ability definitions (NEO-78)** section with curl example and plan/Bruno links. |
+
+## Blocking issues
+
+None.
+
+## Suggestions
+
+1. ~~**Dependency register E5.M1 note** — Extend the **E5.M1 note** in `docs/decomposition/modules/module_dependency_register.md` with **NEO-78 landed:** `GET /game/world/ability-definitions` — `AbilityDefinitionsWorldApi` + DTOs; Bruno `ability-definitions/` (same pattern as NEO-79 review follow-up for registry DI).~~ **Done.**
+
+2. ~~**E5M1 backlog in-scope line** — In **E5M1-04** “In scope”, consider replacing “manual QA stub if needed” with “no manual QA (server-only per NEO-78 kickoff)” so the backlog does not contradict the plan decision.~~ **Done.**
+
+## Nits
+
+- ~~Nit: Bruno test **“frozen prototype four is present”** is redundant given **“frozen prototype four matches registry id order”** already asserts the exact four ids.~~ **Done.** Removed redundant test.
+
+- ~~Nit: C# integration test infers count **4** via `FrozenFourInIdOrder` length only; an explicit `Assert.Equal(4, body.Abilities.Count)` would match Bruno’s explicit length check (optional — recipe test uses the same frozen-array pattern).~~ **Done.**
+
+- ~~Nit: Spot-checks cover **`prototype_pulse`** and **`prototype_burst`** only; **`prototype_guard`** (`utility`) and **`prototype_dash`** (`movement`) kinds are untested in automated/Bruno paths — acceptable per plan scope but easy to add later if desired.~~ **Done.** Guard/dash spot-checks added to C# test and Bruno.
+
+## Verification
+
+```bash
+cd /home/don/neon-sprawl/server
+dotnet test NeonSprawl.Server.Tests/NeonSprawl.Server.Tests.csproj \
+  --filter "FullyQualifiedName~AbilityDefinitionsWorldApiTests|FullyQualifiedName~AbilityDefinitionRegistryTests"
+dotnet test NeonSprawl.Server.Tests/NeonSprawl.Server.Tests.csproj \
+  --filter "FullyQualifiedName~Combat"
+```
+
+Manual (optional):
+
+- Bruno: `bruno/neon-sprawl-server/ability-definitions/Get ability definitions.bru` against a running dev server (`http://localhost:5253`).
+
+**Reviewer note:** Full `dotnet test` reported **32** failures in `GatherOperationsTests` (likely environment/DB-dependent, unrelated to this diff). All **27** Combat-filtered tests and the new ability-definitions integration test passed.
diff --git a/server/NeonSprawl.Server.Tests/Game/Combat/AbilityDefinitionsWorldApiTests.cs b/server/NeonSprawl.Server.Tests/Game/Combat/AbilityDefinitionsWorldApiTests.cs
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..6c27309
--- /dev/null
+++ b/server/NeonSprawl.Server.Tests/Game/Combat/AbilityDefinitionsWorldApiTests.cs
@@ -0,0 +1,60 @@
+using System.Linq;
+using System.Net;
+using System.Net.Http.Json;
+using NeonSprawl.Server.Game.Combat;
+using Xunit;
+
+namespace NeonSprawl.Server.Tests.Game.Combat;
+
+public class AbilityDefinitionsWorldApiTests
+{
+    /// <summary>Frozen prototype four in registry id order (ordinal). Keep in sync with Bruno.</summary>
+    public static readonly string[] FrozenFourInIdOrder =
+    [
+        "prototype_burst",
+        "prototype_dash",
+        "prototype_guard",
+        "prototype_pulse",
+    ];
+
+    [Fact]
+    public async Task GetAbilityDefinitions_ShouldReturnSchemaV1_WithFrozenFourInIdOrder()
+    {
+        // Arrange
+        await using var factory = new InMemoryWebApplicationFactory();
+        var client = factory.CreateClient();
+        // Act
+        var response = await client.GetAsync("/game/world/ability-definitions");
+        // Assert
+        Assert.Equal(HttpStatusCode.OK, response.StatusCode);
+        var body = await response.Content.ReadFromJsonAsync<AbilityDefinitionsListResponse>();
+        Assert.NotNull(body);
+        Assert.Equal(AbilityDefinitionsListResponse.CurrentSchemaVersion, body!.SchemaVersion);
+        Assert.NotNull(body.Abilities);
+        Assert.Equal(4, body.Abilities.Count);
+        var ids = body.Abilities.Select(static a => a.Id).ToList();
+        Assert.Equal(FrozenFourInIdOrder, ids);
+
+        var pulse = body.Abilities.Single(a => a.Id == "prototype_pulse");
+        Assert.Equal("Prototype Pulse", pulse.DisplayName);
+        Assert.Equal(25, pulse.BaseDamage);
+        Assert.Equal(3.0, pulse.CooldownSeconds);
+        Assert.Equal("attack", pulse.AbilityKind);
+
+        var burst = body.Abilities.Single(a => a.Id == "prototype_burst");
+        Assert.Equal("Prototype Burst", burst.DisplayName);
+        Assert.Equal(40, burst.BaseDamage);
+        Assert.Equal(5.0, burst.CooldownSeconds);
+        Assert.Equal("attack", burst.AbilityKind);
+
+        var guard = body.Abilities.Single(a => a.Id == "prototype_guard");
+        Assert.Equal("utility", guard.AbilityKind);
+        Assert.Equal(0, guard.BaseDamage);
+        Assert.Equal(6.0, guard.CooldownSeconds);
+
+        var dash = body.Abilities.Single(a => a.Id == "prototype_dash");
+        Assert.Equal("movement", dash.AbilityKind);
+        Assert.Equal(0, dash.BaseDamage);
+        Assert.Equal(4.0, dash.CooldownSeconds);
+    }
+}
diff --git a/server/NeonSprawl.Server/Game/Combat/AbilityDefinitionsListDtos.cs b/server/NeonSprawl.Server/Game/Combat/AbilityDefinitionsListDtos.cs
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..036949c
--- /dev/null
+++ b/server/NeonSprawl.Server/Game/Combat/AbilityDefinitionsListDtos.cs
@@ -0,0 +1,36 @@
+using System.Text.Json.Serialization;
+
+namespace NeonSprawl.Server.Game.Combat;
+
+/// <summary>JSON body for <c>GET /game/world/ability-definitions</c> (NEO-78).</summary>
+public sealed class AbilityDefinitionsListResponse
+{
+    public const int CurrentSchemaVersion = 1;
+
+    [JsonPropertyName("schemaVersion")]
+    public int SchemaVersion { get; init; } = CurrentSchemaVersion;
+
+    /// <summary>Loaded abilities ordered by stable <c>id</c> (ordinal), matching <see cref="IAbilityDefinitionRegistry.GetDefinitionsInIdOrder"/>.</summary>
+    [JsonPropertyName("abilities")]
+    public required IReadOnlyList<AbilityDefinitionJson> Abilities { get; init; }
+}
+
+/// <summary>One row in the read-only ability definition projection.</summary>
+public sealed class AbilityDefinitionJson
+{
+    [JsonPropertyName("id")]
+    public required string Id { get; init; }
+
+    [JsonPropertyName("displayName")]
+    public required string DisplayName { get; init; }
+
+    [JsonPropertyName("baseDamage")]
+    public required int BaseDamage { get; init; }
+
+    [JsonPropertyName("cooldownSeconds")]
+    public required double CooldownSeconds { get; init; }
+
+    [JsonPropertyName("abilityKind")]
+    [JsonIgnore(Condition = JsonIgnoreCondition.WhenWritingNull)]
+    public string? AbilityKind { get; init; }
+}
diff --git a/server/NeonSprawl.Server/Game/Combat/AbilityDefinitionsWorldApi.cs b/server/NeonSprawl.Server/Game/Combat/AbilityDefinitionsWorldApi.cs
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..7d4d28e
--- /dev/null
+++ b/server/NeonSprawl.Server/Game/Combat/AbilityDefinitionsWorldApi.cs
@@ -0,0 +1,37 @@
+namespace NeonSprawl.Server.Game.Combat;
+
+/// <summary>Maps <c>GET /game/world/ability-definitions</c> (NEO-78).</summary>
+public static class AbilityDefinitionsWorldApi
+{
+    public static WebApplication MapAbilityDefinitionsWorldApi(this WebApplication app)
+    {
+        app.MapGet(
+            "/game/world/ability-definitions",
+            (IAbilityDefinitionRegistry registry) =>
+            {
+                var defs = registry.GetDefinitionsInIdOrder();
+                var abilities = new List<AbilityDefinitionJson>(defs.Count);
+                foreach (var d in defs)
+                {
+                    abilities.Add(
+                        new AbilityDefinitionJson
+                        {
+                            Id = d.Id,
+                            DisplayName = d.DisplayName,
+                            BaseDamage = d.BaseDamage,
+                            CooldownSeconds = d.CooldownSeconds,
+                            AbilityKind = d.AbilityKind,
+                        });
+                }
+
+                return Results.Json(
+                    new AbilityDefinitionsListResponse
+                    {
+                        SchemaVersion = AbilityDefinitionsListResponse.CurrentSchemaVersion,
+                        Abilities = abilities,
+                    });
+            });
+
+        return app;
+    }
+}
diff --git a/server/NeonSprawl.Server/Program.cs b/server/NeonSprawl.Server/Program.cs
index 87ae584..7e52634 100644
--- a/server/NeonSprawl.Server/Program.cs
+++ b/server/NeonSprawl.Server/Program.cs
@@ -48,6 +48,7 @@ app.MapInteractablesWorldApi();
 app.MapSkillDefinitionsWorldApi();
 app.MapItemDefinitionsWorldApi();
 app.MapRecipeDefinitionsWorldApi();
+app.MapAbilityDefinitionsWorldApi();
 app.MapResourceNodeDefinitionsWorldApi();
 app.MapPlayerInventoryApi();
 app.MapPlayerCraftApi();
diff --git a/server/README.md b/server/README.md
index 45021c9..eb26759 100644
--- a/server/README.md
+++ b/server/README.md
@@ -93,6 +93,14 @@ On startup the host loads every **`*_abilities.json`** under the abilities direc
 
 On success, **Information** logs include the resolved abilities directory path, distinct ability count, and catalog file count. Game code should use **`IAbilityDefinitionRegistry`** for lookups (NEO-79). The catalog singleton remains for fail-fast startup only; do not inject **`AbilityDefinitionCatalog`** in new game code. Hotbar loadout and ability cast routes validate ability ids via **`IAbilityDefinitionRegistry.TryNormalizeKnown`** (backed by the loaded catalog, not a separate static allowlist).
 
+## Ability definitions (NEO-78)
+
+**`GET /game/world/ability-definitions`** returns a versioned JSON body (`schemaVersion` **1**, **`abilities`**) backed by **`IAbilityDefinitionRegistry`** — the same prototype rows loaded at startup (no second source of truth). Each row includes **`id`**, **`displayName`**, **`baseDamage`**, **`cooldownSeconds`**, and **`abilityKind`** when present in content. Plan: [NEO-78 implementation plan](../../docs/plans/NEO-78-implementation-plan.md); Bruno: `bruno/neon-sprawl-server/ability-definitions/`.
+
+```bash
+curl -sS -i "http://localhost:5253/game/world/ability-definitions"
+```
+
 ## Recipe definitions (NEO-68)
 
 **`GET /game/world/recipe-definitions`** returns a versioned JSON body (`schemaVersion` **1**, **`recipes`**) backed by **`IRecipeDefinitionRegistry`** — the same prototype rows loaded at startup (no second source of truth). Each row includes **`id`**, **`displayName`**, **`recipeKind`**, **`requiredSkillId`**, and nested **`inputs`** / **`outputs`** (`itemId`, `quantity`). Plan: [NEO-68 implementation plan](../../docs/plans/NEO-68-implementation-plan.md); manual QA: [`docs/manual-qa/NEO-68.md`](../../docs/manual-qa/NEO-68.md); Bruno: `bruno/neon-sprawl-server/recipe-definitions/`.