clearstream
(He, Him)
Taking the game text on PHB 174, and DMG 237 and 242, 5e offers a nuanced range of ability check results. Unfortunately for implementation at the table, they use a "sliding" index. For example, given DC 17 the outcomes are indexed by roll as follows
The DCs are "flipped" to modifiers, i.e. Very Easy +5, Easy +0, Moderate –5, Hard –10, Very Hard –15, Nearly Impossible –20. Once it's presented like this, I think one can see opportunities to improve the index without losing any nuance.
Example
My 5th level Rogue with STR 12 attempts to climb a sheer surface with a long drop below. DM has classed the wall Hard. I have expertise with Athletics. My modifiers +1 +3 +3 –10 = –3. My roll (after modifiers) is 8 = Success with complication.
*These numbers might look a bit odd, but they're exactly those implied by DMG 242.
- 18+ = Success
- 15+ = Success with complication
- 13+ = Failure
- Lower = Botch
- 22+ = Success
- 19+ = Success with complication
- 17+ = Failure
- Lower = Botch
Index (roll + modifiers)* | Ability Check result |
---|---|
11+ | Success |
8+ | Success with complication |
6+ | Failure |
Lower | Botch |
The DCs are "flipped" to modifiers, i.e. Very Easy +5, Easy +0, Moderate –5, Hard –10, Very Hard –15, Nearly Impossible –20. Once it's presented like this, I think one can see opportunities to improve the index without losing any nuance.
Example
My 5th level Rogue with STR 12 attempts to climb a sheer surface with a long drop below. DM has classed the wall Hard. I have expertise with Athletics. My modifiers +1 +3 +3 –10 = –3. My roll (after modifiers) is 8 = Success with complication.
*These numbers might look a bit odd, but they're exactly those implied by DMG 242.
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