Dice mechanics
Dice pool basics in Draw Steel
Rolling multiple dice and counting successes.
Explanation
This system uses a dice pool approach in RPG Stack’s guides: build a pool from your character traits, roll, count successes, and apply consequences.
At the table (quick loop)
- Build your pool from the relevant traits.
- Roll and count successes according to the system’s thresholds.
- Apply consequences and record changes on the sheet.
Example: Treat every roll as a decision: success advances, failure changes the situation.
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.
Draw Steel FAQ
How do Power Rolls work in Draw Steel?
What are edges and banes in Draw Steel?
What are the classes in Draw Steel?
How does culture work in Draw Steel?