Defensive Scores - Fort, Ref, Will - how do they work?

[GodDelusion]

So, I'm a newb to 4e (in fact, I purchased the core books today so I could run sessions for my kids) and I have a question about the Defensive scores for Fort, Ref & Will.

Are these values static defensive scores or does the player roll a d20 and add these scores, when appropriate?

For example, the Cleric Level 3 Encounter Prayer, Daunting Light, has the following line:
Attack: Wisdom vs. Reflex.

Does the opponent of this cleric roll a d20 and add the Ref value, or is it strictly d20+Wis Modifier vs Reflex value?

Thanks.

 

[James McMurray]

Fort, Reflex, and Will work exactly the same as AC now. The attacker rolls, adds their bonus, and hopes he meets or exceeds the defense.

 

[GodDelusion]

Thanks for the prompt reply. The way you described it actually makes sense.

 

[chitzk0i]

How much of the PHB have you read? Did you check out Chapter 2 where it explains the character sheet? If you missed the basic definition of defenses, maybe you should review this section before you start playing.

 

[Syrsuro]

Assuming you are familiar with the earlier editions (especially 3.x) it is definately worthwhile to sit down and read the PHB, especially chapters 2 (making characters) and 9 (combat) as if it is an entirely new game rather than simply a new edition of an old familiar game.

For example - make sure you understand how different saving throws, starting hit points and defenses are in the two games.

Most of the difficulties people have with the game seem to spring from assumptions based upon how things worked in 3.x.



And if you have trouble figuring out what [W] means in the power descriptions, it is defined on page 276 (their failure to define this term in a logical place is a common objection to the books editing).

Carl

 

[Chimera]

Example;

My Bard makes a Charisma vs. Will attack.

I'm 9th level, so that's +4 for levels.
18 Charisma is another +4.
I have a +2 implement.

Total = +10 "to hit", so I roll a d20 + 10, against the creature's Will Defense score.

Just like James McMurray said, it's another defensive score like AC.

 

[RigaMortus2]

Example;

My Bard makes a Charisma vs. Will attack.

I'm 9th level, so that's +4 for levels.
18 Charisma is another +4.
I have a +2 implement.

Total = +10 "to hit", so I roll a d20 + 10, against the creature's Will Defense score.

Just like James McMurray said, it's another defensive score like AC.

That's a bad example, because there is no Bard in 4E yet... Unless you are using a fan-made creation. But still, might not want to confuse the guy. He might look for the Bard class in the PHB and wonder where it is.