Ability Scores and Skill Checks

[gfunk]

If a creature has an ability score of '--' like Undead with no Con scores or Constructs with no Int scores, do they always fail attached ability checks?

For example, do undead always fail Con checks and do constructs always fail Int checks?

I guess yes, but I can't find the relevant rule.

 

[Justinian]

Undead use their Charisma modifier for Constitution checks. (Look in the Types section of the SRD or the glossaries in the DMG, I think.)
I can't find a generic rule for missing ability scores, though.

Edit: Aha! Check under Nonabilities, in the same section. That explains each missing ability. Oddly, those two sections contradict. One would assume the Undead entry takes precedence.

 

[hong]

If a creature has an ability score of '--' like Undead with no Con scores or Constructs with no Int scores, do they always fail attached ability checks?

For example, do undead always fail Con checks and do constructs always fail Int checks?

Yes.

Undead use their Charisma modifier for Constitution checks.

Undead use their Cha modifier for _Concentration_ skill checks, not Con checks in general.

 

[Darklone]

Uhm, what do you need con checks for? Running for hours? I don´t think undeads would have a problem with that... if the DM allows running at all

Holding your breath? Not a problem.

 

[CRGreathouse]

Constructs can have Int scores, so they don't automatically fail Int checks.

 

[shilsen]

Uhm, what do you need con checks for? Running for hours? I don´t think undeads would have a problem with that... if the DM allows running at all

Most undead can run, and those that can run may do so for 24 hrs a day without suffering any ill effects. A running skeleton (of a human commoner, for example) covers 288 miles a day. Imagine a "skeleton express" mail service carrying mail packages