Crit successes and crit fails

Understanding Critical Success and Failures in Role-playing Games

Role-playing games (RPGs) are known for their exciting and unpredictable gameplay. One of the elements that adds to the thrill is the concept of critical success and failures. In many RPGs, rolling a natural 20 or a natural 1 on a twenty-sided die (d20) can have significant implications for the outcome of an action. No matter the dice system, most TTRPGs have some form of a critical failure or success. In this article, we will explore the dynamics of handling these extreme results and when it is appropriate to consider them as extraordinary successes or utter failures.

The Role of a Natural 20: When Improbable Becomes Possible

A natural 20, also known as a "nat 20," is the highest possible result you can roll on a d20. It represents an exceptional level of success, often allowing characters to achieve feats that would otherwise be impossible. When a natural 20 is rolled, it is generally considered a critical success, regardless of any bonuses or modifiers.

For example, imagine your character is attempting to pick a lock. They may have a high level of skill and a bonus to their lock-picking ability, but if they roll a natural 20, the lock opens effortlessly, even if it was considered unpickable. This extraordinary success not only adds a sense of excitement to the game but also rewards players for their luck and the risks they take.

However, it's important to note that a natural 20 does not guarantee success in every situation. While it may allow characters to accomplish remarkable feats, the outcome should still be within the realm of possibility. For instance, if your character attempts to jump over a tall building, rolling a natural 20 might mean they manage to clear a considerable distance, but it would still be unrealistic for them to leap over the entire structure in a single bound.

Personally, I always find it satisfying as a Game Master (GM) and a player when a nat 20 defies the bounds of reality. When a barbarian solves a tricky arcane puzzle that the wizard couldn't even solve, or when the sorcerer saves an ally by pulling them up from the side of a cliff; it's moments like these that stick with me. With that in mind, there is a different between improbable and impossible.

The Natural 1: When Failure Strikes

On the other end of the spectrum, rolling a natural 1, or a "nat 1," is often considered a critical failure. It represents a moment of utter failure, where even characters with high skill levels and bonuses can't overcome their misfortune. When a natural 1 is rolled, it typically leads to unexpected and sometimes humorous consequences.

For example, if your character is attempting to convince a guard to let them pass, rolling a natural 1 might result in the guard becoming suspicious and calling for reinforcements. This failure can create interesting plot twists, comedic moments, or even unexpected opportunities for the players to showcase their problem-solving skills.

However, it's important to handle natural 1s with care. While they can add excitement and humor to the game, they should not be used to excessively punish players or derail the story. A natural 1 should not automatically result in the worst possible outcome in every situation. Instead, it should be an opportunity for the GM and players to collaborate on creating a memorable and engaging narrative.

When to Embrace the Improbable Success or Failure

While natural 20s and natural 1s are often associated with critical success and failures, there are instances where it may be appropriate to handle them differently. The decision ultimately lies with the GM and the group's agreed-upon style of gameplay.

When it comes to natural 20s, some groups prefer to treat them as automatic successes, regardless of the situation. This approach allows players to feel empowered and rewarded for their exceptional rolls. However, it's essential to maintain a sense of balance and ensure that these successes do not overshadow the achievements of characters who have invested in specific skills or abilities.

Conversely, there may be times when a natural 1 is not treated as a complete failure. In certain circumstances, the GM might decide to introduce a degree of uncertainty or complication instead of outright failure. This approach acknowledges that even the most skilled characters can make mistakes or encounter unexpected challenges. My favorite complication is a time delay, especially when the party is on a time-sensitive task.

Finally...

There's no wrong way to play! Critical successes and failures add an element of excitement and unpredictability to role-playing games. The thrill of rolling a natural 20 or a natural 1 can create memorable moments and shape the narrative of the game. Understanding when to embrace the improbable success or failure is crucial in maintaining a balanced and enjoyable gaming experience.

Remember, a natural 20 should allow characters to achieve remarkable feats within the realm of possibility, while a natural 1 should introduce complications or unexpected consequences without excessively punishing the players. By striking the right balance, you can create a dynamic and engaging RPG experience for everyone involved!