What is GURPS?
GURPS is a generic roleplaying system designed to support very different genres and character types. Its ordinary success roll is distinctive because it usually asks for a low total on three six-sided dice, rather than a high d20. The middle-weighted distribution makes effective skill changes feel different from a flat die. This page is a fast dice tray, not a character-point calculator.
How to use the presets
Roll 3d6 for a basic success check and compare the sum with effective skill or another required value. Situational modifiers commonly change that effective target; adding a benefit to the dice themselves would move the result in the wrong direction. Damage uses its own expressions, so a separate damage preset avoids importing a check adjustment into a weapon roll.
3, 4 and 5 total 12. Whether 12 succeeds depends on the effective target already established for that task.
Practical table tips
- Work out effective skill before rolling. Announcing the target first makes it easier to understand the margin afterward.
- Leave dice modifiers at zero when bonuses are already applied to effective skill. The input changes the rolled number, not an invisible target.
- Use descriptive damage labels such as thrust or swing plus the weapon name, but take the actual expression from the sheet.
GURPS dice FAQ
Is a higher 3d6 total better?
Not for a basic roll-under success check. Follow the specific rule; damage and reaction procedures can read numbers differently.
Are criticals always just 3 and 18?
GURPS has effective-skill-dependent critical rules. This tool does not classify criticals without that context.
Can I enter 2d6+1 damage?
Yes. Choose two d6 and add a +1 modifier. Apply damage type, armor and injury rules outside the roller.
Effective skill, critical thresholds, resistance contests, armor and injury multipliers are not determined from a character sheet.
Independent, unofficial dice aid. Game names identify the intended use; their publishers do not endorse this page. These original explanations are not a replacement for the rules.