What Number is a Saving Throw in 5e?
Saving throws are a crucial part of any Dungeons & Dragons (D&D) game, as they allow characters to resist the effects of various attacks, spells, and other external factors. In this article, we will explore what number a saving throw is in 5e and provide an in-depth analysis of the various types of saving throws.
The Basics of Saving Throws
In 5e, a saving throw is a type of ability check that allows a character to resist the effects of a specific attack, spell, or other external factor. A saving throw is made by rolling a 20-sided die (d20) and adding the relevant ability modifier (e.g. Strength, Dexterity, Constitution, etc.) to the roll. The result of the roll is then compared to the difficulty class (DC) of the attack or effect, with a roll of 10 or higher being successful.
The Numbers
Now, let’s get to the main question: what number is a saving throw in 5e? The answer is simple: a saving throw is always a roll of a 20-sided die (d20). Whether you’re rolling a Constitution saving throw or a Wisdom saving throw, the basic mechanics are the same: roll a d20 and add the relevant ability modifier.
The Ability Score Modifiers
In 5e, each ability score has a corresponding ability modifier that is used in calculations such as saving throws. The ability modifiers are as follows:
- Strength: -5 to +5
- Dexterity: -5 to +5
- Constitution: -5 to +5
- Intelligence: -3 to +3
- Wisdom: -3 to +3
- Charisma: -3 to +3
When calculating a saving throw, the relevant ability modifier is added to the roll of the d20.
The DC
In addition to the ability modifier, another important factor to consider is the difficulty class (DC) of the attack or effect. The DC is the target number that the roll must meet or exceed in order to succeed. In 5e, the DC is typically determined by the spell or ability that is causing the effect.
How to Calculate a Saving Throw
So, how do you calculate a saving throw in 5e? It’s easy! Follow these steps:
- Determine the type of saving throw: Constitution, Dexterity, Wisdom, etc.
- Roll a 20-sided die (d20).
- Add the relevant ability modifier to the roll.
- Compare the result to the difficulty class (DC) of the attack or effect.
- If the result is 10 or higher, the saving throw is successful.
Examples of Saving Throws
Here are a few examples of saving throws in 5e:
- A fighter takes 10 fire damage from a burning torch. To resist the fire, the fighter must make a Constitution saving throw. The DC is 15. If the fighter rolls a 12 or higher, the saving throw is successful.
- A wizard casts a spell that deals 6 force damage. To resist the spell, the wizard must make a Wisdom saving throw. The DC is 12. If the wizard rolls a 15 or higher, the saving throw is successful.
Conclusion
In conclusion, a saving throw in 5e is always a roll of a 20-sided die (d20), with the relevant ability modifier added to the roll. The difficulty class (DC) of the attack or effect is used to determine the target number that the roll must meet or exceed in order to succeed. By following these simple steps, you can easily calculate a saving throw and determine the outcome of any attack or effect in your 5e game.
Additional Resources
For more information on saving throws and other aspects of 5e, check out the official Dungeons & Dragons website, as well as the many online resources and communities available. Happy adventuring!