Episode 27: Narrativized and Precursor Skill Checks

Описание: The deeper I dig into D&D's skill systems (and other D20 tests), across its editions the more I am. caused to think of both alternatives and additions to the existing procedures. In this Episode, number twenty-seven of the show, I investigate how narrative might be made impactful upon skill checks, and also how multiple precursor (or stepping-stone) skill checks related to solving one problem might be called-for in order to make a larger task that is comprised of smaller parts either easier or more difficult for characters to accomplish. Such innovations might be combined to great effect with other skill-check features such as the distinction between Passive and Active checks explained in the DMG 2024 on page 28 and elsewhere, or the normal variation roll (a.k.a. the bell-curve roll). A requirement for proficiency in a skill might be imposed as a precondition to critical successes when using that skill, and similarly (but conversely), having proficiency in a skill might protect a skill-user against critical failures.

It is difficult to say, from one's armchair, what the optimal mix of features for a skill-test system would be. Educated guesses can be made, but ultimately ideas like these should be tested before adopted. Nevertheless any sketch for a new design must start at the drawing board, and it is with that in mind that this episode comes to you.

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