Dice mechanics
Dice pool basics in Werewolf: The Apocalypse 5th Edition
Rolling multiple dice and counting successes.
Explanation
Werewolf W5 uses d10 dice pools: roll Attribute + Skill, count successes on 6+, with criticals on paired 10s. Rage dice replace part of your pool and can push results brutal, power at the cost of control.
At the table (quick loop)
- Build your pool (Attribute + Skill), substituting Rage dice for your current Rage.
- Roll d10s and count successes (6+).
- Interpret Rage results: brutal outcomes and lost wolf control are story-forward consequences, not just failures.
Example: Two 10s make a critical; if Rage dice drove it, the win comes with the wolf off the leash.
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.
Werewolf FAQ
What are Auspices in Werewolf 5e?
How does Renown work in Werewolf 5e?
What are Tribes in Werewolf 5e?
How does Rage work?
What are the five forms?