Tabletop GamingNew D&D character sheet makes understanding skills easier (and also somehow much harder)When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.Here’s how it works.
Tabletop GamingNew D&D character sheet makes understanding skills easier (and also somehow much harder)When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.Here’s how it works.
When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.Here’s how it works.
(Image credit: Wizards of the Coast)
Outside of combat actions, skill checks are probably one of the most important gamified elements of Dungeons & Dragons, and the new D&D character sheet implements a deceptively simple change that seems to be embracing this reality.
If your party is anything like mine, you likely spend far more time tormenting NPCs and waxing poetic about your character backstory than you do doing anything that actually requires a skill check, but when the DM wants to see those dice a-rolling, you better be ready.
On the face of it, this seems like an excellent idea. However, it might not be that simple.
(Image credit: Wizards of the Coast)
(Image credit: Wizards of the Coast)
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I’d argue that from a design perspective, the whole issue is just something of a catch-22. It’s part of why there’s such a flourishing community of player-generated D&D resources. At a certain point, you’re going to want something bespoke that’s more geared towards your needs, experience, and play style.
All that said, what I’m really interested in seeing when the new Player Handbookreleases September 17is how it goes about introducing skills and abilities to first-time players and how effectively it will be able to funnel that new knowledge into what is ostensibly a less beginner-friendly character sheet.
Wondering which adventure to play through once the new core rulebooks come out? Check thebest D&D booksfor some inspiration (pun totally intended).If you’re looking for something else to play while you’re waiting, give one of ourbest board gamespicks a try. You’ll also want to keep an eye onPrime Day board game dealsto score some savings on your tabletop faves.
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