I’m looking for tabletop RPGs where every action, whether it’s picking a lock, attacking an enemy, or jumping over a stream, is resolved using a roll of 2d6 or 3d6 plus any relevant modifiers based on skills, equipment, etc. For instance, if a skill or piece of gear is applicable, it could add a bonus like +3. Are there games that follow this mechanic?
5 Answers
Even D&D, with its variant rules, can fall under this mechanic in certain contexts! There are various options if you explore the official variant rules that introduce bell curve rolls.
GURPS is another option that features a 3d6 mechanic, where success means your total roll must be equal to or less than your target number, which is a mix of skill level and attributes. It’s a bit different, but it fits your overall request.
Dragon AGE RPG follows a similar structure, and there are quite a few indie games as well, like Tiny Dungeon, that use the d6 mechanics extensively. It’s a popular choice among many RPG designers!
If you’re considering the Traveller systems, the Cepheus Engine variant also uses 2d6 plus skills and ability scores for checks, with the base difficulty typically set at 8. Any success above that allows for bonuses, which can create interesting gameplay dynamics.
Absolutely, many RPGs utilize the 2d6 mechanic! For instance, most Powered by the Apocalypse (PbtA) games operate with a 2d6 + some stat bonus, which affects the outcome of actions like success or failure. Blades in the Dark uses a different approach with a d6 dice pool based on your skills, but the fundamentals are similar. You can find plenty of game systems that follow this trend!
And while many PbtA games typically use the 2d6 format, it’s worth noting that some titles, like Ironsworn, even incorporate a 2d10 alongside a d6! So there’s definitely some variety.