1/2 class level

[daddystabz]

I just wanted to clarify this for 4e since I also play Saga Edition, which has a VERY similar class level mechanic and I don't want to confuse the two when I am playing.

In 4e you add 1/2 class level to skill rolls, attack, and defenses rolls but not to damage rolls, right?

 

[Nikosandros]

In 4e you add 1/2 class level to skill rolls, attack, and defenses rolls but not to damage rolls, right?

Defenses are a static number, like in SWSE and you add 1/2 class level to their values. 1/2 class level is also added to ability checks.

Damage rolls are not modified, but as you increase in level, you get powers that do more damage.

 

[daddystabz]

That is exactly as I thought but do you also get 1/2 class lvl to your attack rolls too? I think I read that you do.

 

[Kordeth]

That is exactly as I thought but do you also get 1/2 class lvl to your attack rolls too? I think I read that you do.

Yes. You add 1/2 your level to:

- Attack rolls
- Defenses (including AC)
- Skill checks
- Ability checks

 

[BendBars/LiftGates]

From what I see so far, it looks like when you're making an ability-modified d20 roll, there's a good chance that you get to add half your level. When you're making an ability-modified roll for anything else, you probably don't.


I had this same question when I looked at converting my 3rd Edition wizard, and I concluded that you don't get the 1/2 level on things like damage. It will tell you which rolls get 1/2 level, but it's so ubiquitous that you forget that it's specifically part of making an attack.

The other trouble is that monster writeups show only the modifier + 1/2 level in the parenthetical note after their ability scores. This led me for a while to believe that your modifier is boosted by half your level. It's not. Your modifier is separate from the 1/2 level and you don't get both all the time.