An idea from the Breeyark blog for expanding the combat table to universal resolution.
Originally shared by Frotz Self
I'm still trying to come to terms with how simple and effective this seems:
http://breeyark.org/how-to-use-a-bx-combat-matrix-for-everything/
http://breeyark.org/how-to-use-a-bx-combat-matrix-for-everything/
h/t to James Aulds for original share. Unfortunately this links to original but not James's share where there are more comments
ReplyDeleteI wrote there: This is similar to what I do when a character takes a non-standard action in combat, like knocking over a bookcase. I just have them make an attack roll and then judge the results based on whether they "hit" a particular AC.
ReplyDeleteGreat idea
ReplyDeleteThinking about it further, it's basically what's done in all post-3E editions. Everything was turned into a roll-over attack roll versus an AC or DC (difficulty check number equivalent to an AC)
ReplyDeleteWhile I like minimalism and elegance in RPG design, I still tend to go for the d6 roll outside combat and saving throws whe I play old D&D games. I honestly don't know whether that's stubborness or something more sensible on my part. As a game designer I certainly see the value in the attack matrix approach, though if I did go that route I would probably expand it to cover everything (including saves, turning, surprise, etc.).
ReplyDeleteI used to use the To-Hit Matrix for Thief Special Abilities. blog.d4caltrops.com - Rules Cyclopedia Hacks and House Rules: Thief Special Abilities
ReplyDeleteI also love the re-purposing the Cleric Turning table for task resolution as well...because it allows for auto-success and even can be hacked for "partial success."
I love B/X, and think this is a creative use of its attack matrix for non-combat actions, but isn't this basically the same target number (or DC) system that's used in 3e and later editions of D&D? Perhaps 5e, with it's proficiency bonus being directly tied to character level, is the closest mechanics-wise.
ReplyDeleteOh, there's dopey me not seeing earlier comments and basically parroting Zach H's post above! :-)
ReplyDeleteIt makes me think of someones "Save vs Awesome" essentially allowing fighters to have feats by saving vs Death.
ReplyDeleteI remember that Denis McCarthy! It was Aspiring Lich's (Chris?) blog ....checks... which has since been removed. :-(
ReplyDeleteThey had taken the best save of the class and made it into an Action. I suppose having a Mage check lore would have been done as a Save Vs Spells.
ReplyDeleteYears ago I created a "doing things" table based on the saving throw matrix, and I think I did it for Gamma World 1e/2e rules, but I lost it. I never was able to recreate it either. :/
ReplyDeleteEven for 5e, if I'm resolving issues behind the DM screen, I always roll a d6, with a 1 automatic success and 6 auto fail. The rest of the numbers are variables. This habit comes from detecting secret doors & open door rolls. :)