What is Shadowdark?
Shadowdark is a fantasy adventure RPG with fast procedures and exploration under pressure. A character's supplies and the passing of real time can make a careful decision more valuable than another bonus. This tray stays out of that conversation: it offers checks and damage dice, while the group continues to manage the expedition and describe how actions are attempted.
How to use the presets
Use a d20 plus the applicable bonus for a check. The advantage preset keeps the higher of two d20s, and disadvantage keeps the lower. Choose damage separately according to the weapon or effect. The roller does not know the target difficulty, light remaining or the character's talents. Those details are still needed to turn a numerical result into a fictional outcome.
An advantage pair of four and fifteen selects fifteen before adding the relevant check modifier.
Practical table tips
- Keep the torch timer separate and running as your group's rules require. Dice animation is not a substitute for tracking light.
- Choose a preset before entering a bonus. It prevents an old damage adjustment from following you into a new check.
- When a player proposes a clever solution, resolve whether a roll is needed before reaching for another d20.
Shadowdark dice FAQ
Does this track torch time?
No. Use a separate timer and the game's exploration procedure.
Does advantage add two d20s?
No. This preset selects the higher face.
Can it resolve every talent?
No. Talents and special effects may require adjustments or interpretation outside the standard preset.
Timers, character talents, spell effects, critical effects and exploration state remain manual.
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.