I’m not a fan of how the advantage and disadvantage system works in Dungeons & Dragons, so I’ve been brainstorming an alternative rule that could simplify things. Instead of rolling a second d20 for advantage, I’d suggest rolling a bonus die that adds a value based on its size: d4 is worth 1, d6 is 2, d8 is 3, d10 is 4, and d12 is 5. The size of the bonus die would depend on the extent of advantage or disadvantage the GM determines. For example, if you have two advantages that give you a d6 and a d4, you’d just roll a d8. However, if you had a d12 advantage against a d8 disadvantage, you’d roll a d6. It keeps things to a single die and never more than a d12. I hope this makes sense and is easier than it sounds!
3 Answers
This just sounds a bit too complex, to be honest. If your goal is to simplify, maybe reconsider? Looks like you could just add a d6 or adjust rolls by simple modifiers instead.
Honestly, the advantage/disadvantage system was brought in to simplify the mechanics of bonuses and penalties in the game. Your suggestion seems to complicate things even more, as you’d still have to figure out the final modifier to your roll and then determine what die to add. Why not just return to the original bonus system instead?
Check out the Boons and Banes system from Shadow of the Demon Lord. It sounds like your idea is similar, but I think they handle it in a more streamlined way. Might be worth checking out!
Right? You could stack the d6 for advantages and take the best or worst results based on what you roll, similar to what Lancer does. Less hassle overall!