One Dice to bring them all and in the adventure bind them."
Are you new to the world of tabletop role-playing games (TTRPGs) and feeling overwhelmed by the different dice used in games like Dungeons & Dragons (D&D)? Don't worry, we've got you covered! In this comprehensive guide, we'll demystify the world of D&D dice, explaining their uses, variations, and how they enhance your gaming experience. So, grab your favorite set of dice and let's dive in!
Role-playing games like D&D rely heavily on dice rolls to determine outcomes and add an element of chance to the gameplay. Understanding the different dice used in these games is essential for players of all levels. In this article, we'll provide you with a comprehensive guide to D&D dice, from the basic set to specialty variations and everything in between.
Before we delve into the specifics, it's important to understand the basics of D&D dice. In most TTRPGs, dice are typically referred to by the notation "D" followed by the number of sides on the dice. For example, a six-sided die is called a D6, while a ten-sided die is called a D10.
The standard dice set for D&D comprises seven different dice: D4, D6, D8, D10, D12, D20, and percentile dice (D10 with numbers ranging from 00 to 90 in increments of 10). This set provides a versatile range of options for various game mechanics and outcomes.
Let's take a closer look at each of the dice in the standard set and understand their unique characteristics and uses.
The D4 The Tetrahedron "Caltrop" :
Often referred to as a caltrop or pyramid, is a four-sided dice used for low-value damage rolls and certain randomization tasks. Often unloved and if you step on one you will never forget it, make sure to keep these little monsters locked away in appropriate dice storage!
D6: The Cube
The D6 is the most commonly recognized dice shape, featuring six sides with dots or pips. It is used for various purposes in TTRPGs, including damage rolls, skill checks, and determining random outcomes. If you were to take away the numbers and replace them with dots or "pips" this would be the dice most tabletop gamers would find familiar. Used in many normal board games such as monopoly.
The D6 is the most commonly recognized dice shape, featuring six sides with dots or pips. It is used for various purposes in TTRPGs, including damage rolls, skill checks, and determining random outcomes. If you were to take away the numbers and replace them with dots or "pips" this would be the dice most tabletop gamers would find familiar. Used in many normal board games such as monopoly.
The D8 is an eight-sided dice used for medium-value damage rolls and other randomization needs in the game. Think of it as just two D4'S with their bases pressed together
D10: The Pentagonal Trapezohedron
Say that 10 times fast right? The D10 is a ten-sided dice used for determining percentages, as well as for high-value damage rolls and randomization tasks.
There are two types of D10 in a standard set, While the D10 can be used to determine percentages, some games employ a D100, also known as a percentile dice, to provide finer granularity for random outcomes.
Say that 10 times fast right? The D10 is a ten-sided dice used for determining percentages, as well as for high-value damage rolls and randomization tasks.
There are two types of D10 in a standard set, While the D10 can be used to determine percentages, some games employ a D100, also known as a percentile dice, to provide finer granularity for random outcomes.
D12: The Dodecahedron
The D12 is a twelve-sided dice often used for heavy damage rolls and certain game mechanics that require a wider range of outcomes.
The D12 is a twelve-sided dice often used for heavy damage rolls and certain game mechanics that require a wider range of outcomes.
D20: The Icosahedron
The moment you have surely all been waiting for. The D20 is the most iconic dice in D&D. It has twenty sides and is primarily used for resolving critical hits, saving throws, skill checks, and determining the success or failure of actions.
This is also commonly used after the ever so terrifying phrase "Roll for initiative!" This roll determines the order in which players take their turn to attack or perform an action during an encounter.
That's your glorious 7 Standard dice used in D&D! Beyond the standard set, there are specialty dice available in different shapes and configurations. These dice cater to specific game systems, offering unique mechanics and enhancing the thematic elements of the game. Such as flipping a coin or using a "D2" to "roll for emphasis" determining a critical success or critical failure of your actions.
These dice are commonly referred to throughout the entire D&D Rulebook along with many other TTRPG Systems, lets take a quick look at notation.
Dice notation is a shorthand system used to describe dice rolls in TTRPGs. It follows the format "NdX," where "N" represents the number of dice rolled, and "X" denotes the number of sides on each die. For example, 2d6 means rolling two six-sided dice and summing the results.
Rolling the die
Rolling dice is not just about chance; it's an art form! Different rolling techniques can affect the outcome. From the classic cup-and-shake method to controlled rolls, players develop their own preferred styles to influence their luck. But lets face it, you'll probably still roll a one and fail to seduce the barkeep starting a tavern brawl the rest of your party will love you for, I'm watching you Bard players.
Dice Superstitions and Rituals
Dice superstitions are prevalent among TTRPG players. From lucky dice rituals to avoiding specific dice, these beliefs add a touch of fun and excitement to the gaming experience. For example, that one you rolled earlier and got the whole party in trouble? That dice definitely has to go to dice jail never to see the light of day again for providing you with such foul luck.
Collecting and Customizing Dice
One of the joys of being a TTRPG enthusiast is the opportunity to collect and customize dice. Dice collecting has become a beloved hobby for many players, with a wide array of beautifully designed dice sets available in various colors, materials, and styles. From translucent gem-like dice to metallic finishes and intricate engravings, there is a set to match every player's taste and character. Customizing dice has also gained popularity, allowing players to add personal touches such as unique paint jobs, decals, or even custom-made dice creations. The process of collecting and customizing dice adds an extra layer of excitement and personalization to the gaming experience, making each roll feel like a unique expression of individual style and flair. So, whether you're drawn to the elegance of obsidian-like dice or prefer the vibrant hues of rainbow-colored sets, collecting and customizing dice allows you to showcase your creativity and enhance the visual appeal of your gaming sessions.
We can go a lot deeper than this article, Dice are almost a way of life to some people collectors proudly call themselves "Dice Goblins" and players usually have way more in their collection than they need. But we hope this has helped make things a little more clear for you newbies out there.
Further questions?
Take a look at the following FAQ and check out our other blogs.
FAQs
Q1: Can I use a regular six-sided die instead of a D6?
A: While it's possible to substitute a regular six-sided die, using a proper D6 is recommended for consistent and fair gameplay.
Q2: Are specialty dice necessary for playing D&D?
A: No, specialty dice are not necessary. The standard dice set provides everything you need to play most TTRPGs, including D&D.
Q3: How do I read the percentile dice?
A: Percentile dice are read by combining the values of two ten-sided dice, one representing the tens digit and the other the ones digit.
Q4: Can I mix and match dice from different sets?
A: Yes, you can mix and match dice from different sets as long as they have the same number of sides and provide fair randomness.
Q5: Where can I purchase dice sets for TTRPGs?
A: Right here! We are Tabletop Dominion specialise in providing high quality hand made dice and accessories for the ultimate TTRPG experience.
Q6: Are there any dice-rolling apps or websites I can use instead of physical dice?
A: Yes, there are many dice-rolling apps and websites available that simulate rolling dice digitally. They can be convenient for online gaming sessions or when physical dice are not accessible.
Q7: What should I do if my dice consistently roll low or high numbers?
A: If you suspect your dice are biased, you can try different rolling techniques, such as rolling in a dice tray or changing the angle and force of your roll. If the issue persists, consider getting a new set of dice.
Q8: Can I use dice from other TTRPG systems in my D&D game?
A: In most cases, dice from other TTRPG systems can be used in D&D games as long as they have the same number of sides and provide fair randomness. However, it's important to communicate with your game group to ensure everyone is comfortable with using different dice.
Q9: Are there any alternative methods for determining outcomes without dice?
A: While dice are the traditional method for randomization in TTRPGs, some game systems offer alternative mechanics, such as card decks or narrative-based resolution systems. These alternatives can provide unique gameplay experiences.
Q10: How can I encourage fair play and sportsmanship with dice rolls?
A: Fair play and sportsmanship are crucial in TTRPGs. Encourage open communication, ensure dice rolls are visible to all players, and foster an environment where everyone respects the outcomes, whether they are favorable or not.
The moment you have surely all been waiting for. The D20 is the most iconic dice in D&D. It has twenty sides and is primarily used for resolving critical hits, saving throws, skill checks, and determining the success or failure of actions.
This is also commonly used after the ever so terrifying phrase "Roll for initiative!" This roll determines the order in which players take their turn to attack or perform an action during an encounter.
That's your glorious 7 Standard dice used in D&D! Beyond the standard set, there are specialty dice available in different shapes and configurations. These dice cater to specific game systems, offering unique mechanics and enhancing the thematic elements of the game. Such as flipping a coin or using a "D2" to "roll for emphasis" determining a critical success or critical failure of your actions.These dice are commonly referred to throughout the entire D&D Rulebook along with many other TTRPG Systems, lets take a quick look at notation.
Dice notation is a shorthand system used to describe dice rolls in TTRPGs. It follows the format "NdX," where "N" represents the number of dice rolled, and "X" denotes the number of sides on each die. For example, 2d6 means rolling two six-sided dice and summing the results.
Rolling the die
Rolling dice is not just about chance; it's an art form! Different rolling techniques can affect the outcome. From the classic cup-and-shake method to controlled rolls, players develop their own preferred styles to influence their luck. But lets face it, you'll probably still roll a one and fail to seduce the barkeep starting a tavern brawl the rest of your party will love you for, I'm watching you Bard players.
Dice Superstitions and Rituals
Dice superstitions are prevalent among TTRPG players. From lucky dice rituals to avoiding specific dice, these beliefs add a touch of fun and excitement to the gaming experience. For example, that one you rolled earlier and got the whole party in trouble? That dice definitely has to go to dice jail never to see the light of day again for providing you with such foul luck.
Collecting and Customizing Dice
One of the joys of being a TTRPG enthusiast is the opportunity to collect and customize dice. Dice collecting has become a beloved hobby for many players, with a wide array of beautifully designed dice sets available in various colors, materials, and styles. From translucent gem-like dice to metallic finishes and intricate engravings, there is a set to match every player's taste and character. Customizing dice has also gained popularity, allowing players to add personal touches such as unique paint jobs, decals, or even custom-made dice creations. The process of collecting and customizing dice adds an extra layer of excitement and personalization to the gaming experience, making each roll feel like a unique expression of individual style and flair. So, whether you're drawn to the elegance of obsidian-like dice or prefer the vibrant hues of rainbow-colored sets, collecting and customizing dice allows you to showcase your creativity and enhance the visual appeal of your gaming sessions.
We can go a lot deeper than this article, Dice are almost a way of life to some people collectors proudly call themselves "Dice Goblins" and players usually have way more in their collection than they need. But we hope this has helped make things a little more clear for you newbies out there.
Further questions?
Take a look at the following FAQ and check out our other blogs.
FAQs
Q1: Can I use a regular six-sided die instead of a D6?
A: While it's possible to substitute a regular six-sided die, using a proper D6 is recommended for consistent and fair gameplay.
Q2: Are specialty dice necessary for playing D&D?
A: No, specialty dice are not necessary. The standard dice set provides everything you need to play most TTRPGs, including D&D.
Q3: How do I read the percentile dice?
A: Percentile dice are read by combining the values of two ten-sided dice, one representing the tens digit and the other the ones digit.
Q4: Can I mix and match dice from different sets?
A: Yes, you can mix and match dice from different sets as long as they have the same number of sides and provide fair randomness.
Q5: Where can I purchase dice sets for TTRPGs?
A: Right here! We are Tabletop Dominion specialise in providing high quality hand made dice and accessories for the ultimate TTRPG experience.
Q6: Are there any dice-rolling apps or websites I can use instead of physical dice?
A: Yes, there are many dice-rolling apps and websites available that simulate rolling dice digitally. They can be convenient for online gaming sessions or when physical dice are not accessible.
Q7: What should I do if my dice consistently roll low or high numbers?
A: If you suspect your dice are biased, you can try different rolling techniques, such as rolling in a dice tray or changing the angle and force of your roll. If the issue persists, consider getting a new set of dice.
Q8: Can I use dice from other TTRPG systems in my D&D game?
A: In most cases, dice from other TTRPG systems can be used in D&D games as long as they have the same number of sides and provide fair randomness. However, it's important to communicate with your game group to ensure everyone is comfortable with using different dice.
Q9: Are there any alternative methods for determining outcomes without dice?
A: While dice are the traditional method for randomization in TTRPGs, some game systems offer alternative mechanics, such as card decks or narrative-based resolution systems. These alternatives can provide unique gameplay experiences.
Q10: How can I encourage fair play and sportsmanship with dice rolls?
A: Fair play and sportsmanship are crucial in TTRPGs. Encourage open communication, ensure dice rolls are visible to all players, and foster an environment where everyone respects the outcomes, whether they are favorable or not.
