Dice mechanics
Criticals & fumbles in Dungeons & Dragons 5th Edition
How critical results usually work.
Explanation
5e crits trigger on a natural 20 attack roll: roll all weapon damage dice twice, then add modifiers once. Natural 1 always misses regardless of bonuses. Champion Fighters and Hexblade Warlocks crit on 19-20. Spells that require attack rolls can crit; saves do not.
Examples
Example: make crits change the scene
A critical should add a concrete benefit: extra effect, better position, reduced future risk, or a new option.
Example: messy win (V5-style)
If your system has volatile outcomes, treat 'big success' as success + consequence.
Common mistakes
- Mistake: Treating criticals as just 'more damage'. Fix: Make criticals change position, options, or future risk, not just numbers.
- Mistake: Inconsistent critical rules. Fix: Write down one house interpretation and apply it consistently.