If you have been reading this blog for a while, you know I'm a big fan of Target 20.
However, in the last few days, I've been thinking of an alternative that is even simpler. I'm not the first one to have this idea - I've seem something similar in at least two or three OSR games.
Mathematically, it it's very close to Target 20, but it uses a method that resembles THAC0 and saving throws. Here it goes.
You have two numbers in your sheet, in addition to ability scores* and modifiers: Trained and Untrained.
However, in the last few days, I've been thinking of an alternative that is even simpler. I'm not the first one to have this idea - I've seem something similar in at least two or three OSR games.
Mathematically, it it's very close to Target 20, but it uses a method that resembles THAC0 and saving throws. Here it goes.
You have two numbers in your sheet, in addition to ability scores* and modifiers: Trained and Untrained.
(* I've been considering 4d4+2 or a 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14 array).
To succeed, you need to roll 1d20+mod, equal or over this number.
Notice that the chances of succeeding when you are untrained are about half when compared to a trained PC (e.g., by level 5, the chances are 30% and 15%).
Notice that the chances of succeeding when you are untrained are about half when compared to a trained PC (e.g., by level 5, the chances are 30% and 15%).
And this replaces:
- Saving throws. I'd say every adventurer is trained in saving throws. Some classes or situations deserve a bonus.
- Skills. Thieves are trained in their usual skills. But you could add "training" to rangers, for example, to forage or find tracks.
- THAC0. Works perfectly with descending AC. Only fighters are trained in combat.
- Ability checks. If you are untrained, this is how you can attempt to do thief (or ranger,etc.) stuff.
- Saving throws. I'd say every adventurer is trained in saving throws. Some classes or situations deserve a bonus.
- Skills. Thieves are trained in their usual skills. But you could add "training" to rangers, for example, to forage or find tracks.
- THAC0. Works perfectly with descending AC. Only fighters are trained in combat.
- Ability checks. If you are untrained, this is how you can attempt to do thief (or ranger,etc.) stuff.
- Spellcasting, if you want roll-to-cast.
This has some advantages over Target 20:
- Level is calculated in advance, you only roll 1d20+ability mod.
- Comparing values is even easier than addition.
- Level is calculated in advance, you only roll 1d20+ability mod.
- Comparing values is even easier than addition.
I'm somewhat tempted to leave this table in the hands of the DM - the PCs just roll 1d20+mod, period, telling the DM if they are trained or not.
But, overall, Target 20 feels somewhat easier to grasp for my players - they expect bonuses over a descending number.
I am a bit doubtful about what version to use in my next game.
Anyway, if you like how THAC0 and Saving throws work in old school D&D, however, this might be a good alternative!
Notice that the two systems can be used interchangeably, as the "trained" values are mathematically identical to suing Target 20.
Notice that the two systems can be used interchangeably, as the "trained" values are mathematically identical to suing Target 20.
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