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Dice mechanics

Dice pool basics in Cyberpunk RED

Rolling multiple dice and counting successes.

Explanation

Cyberpunk RED checks are Stat + Skill + 1d10 vs a Difficulty Value (DV). Your Role Ability defines your specialty, and cyberware adds power at a Humanity cost.

At the table (quick loop)
  • Pick Stat + Skill that matches what you’re doing.
  • Roll 1d10, add Stat + Skill, and compare to the DV.
  • Resolve success/failure with concrete changes in the scene (access gained, alarm triggered, target down, etc.).
Example: REF 7 + Handgun 6 + 1d10 vs DV 15: you need 2+ on the d10 to hit.
Examples
Example: build the pool

Pick the two traits that match your approach (often Attribute + Skill), roll that many d10s, then count successes.

Example: raise/lower difficulty

Instead of stacking small modifiers, change the difficulty (required successes) so the decision is readable.

Common mistakes (smallest fix)
  • Mistake: Rolling without a clear pool. Fix: Say the approach, then pick the two traits that define the pool.
  • Mistake: Counting successes inconsistently. Fix: Keep one quick reference open (cheat sheet) during play.
More dice mistakes

Cyberpunk RED FAQ

What are Roles in Cyberpunk RED?
How does the d10 system work in Cyberpunk RED?
How does Improvement Points (IP) work?
How does cyberware affect Humanity?
What's the difference between Stats and Skills?

Keep play fast

Use quick references, then jump back into the scene.