Beginner checklist
Say what you do and what you want to happen (intent).
Use the system's core roll mechanic to resolve uncertainty.
Apply consequences quickly to keep scenes moving.
Between sessions, record advancement so changes are consistent.
How rolls work
Resolution follows your table's chosen system: declare what your character attempts, make the roll your rules call for, and apply the outcome to the fiction and the sheet.
Declare intent and stakes.
Make the roll your system's core mechanic calls for.
Apply consequences and record changes on the sheet.
Treat every roll as a decision: success advances, failure changes the situation.
Play examples
Intent, roll, consequence
State what you want, roll only when the outcome is uncertain, and apply a consequence that changes the situation.
Change approach instead of rerolling
If you fail, don't spam attempts. Change position, get help, spend resources, or accept a cost to keep the scene moving.
Common mistakes
Rolling too often.
Roll when the outcome matters and uncertainty is real; otherwise just do the thing.
Stalling on failure.
On failure, change the situation (cost, complication, new threat) and move forward.
Character creation
Define your character's identity and concept
Describe their appearance
Write their personality traits
Create their backstory
Set their goals and motivations
Add any custom details
What to track during play
What to open next
Prefer definitions? Browse terms in the Freeform / Custom glossary.