VARIABLE MODIFIERS

Normally these games use static modifiers to add or subtract from d20 rolls. I, however, prefer to use variable modifiers instead.
Essentially, the variable modifier system replaces any modifier with one or more additional dice added to, or subtracted from, the basic d20 roll.

Effectively, for every point of bonus or penalty beyond 1, the "die size" of the variable modifier increases by one step, as shown on the tables below.

Except for Miscellaneous Bonuses and Penalties, attribute die, skill die, and skill bonus die are calculated separately from each other. D20 rolls are almost always skill checks, and typically are calculated as follows:

Attribute Modifier Die + Skill Die based on Ranks + Skill Bonus Die + Equipment Modifier Die + General Modifier die.

Bonuses can go no higher than +10 (+2d10), but penalties can go as low as -30 (-6d10).

Use variable modifiers only when adjusting the roll of a d20. Doesn't apply them to any roll that does not involve a d20.

Ranks do not equal bonus. Use the chart below to calculate the bonus and die they grant (its approximately half).



TAKING 10 AND TAKING 20
When taking 10 or 20, you use the static modifier.