Dungeons and Dragons Codexery

Saving Throws

The desperate instinctual surge that defies fate, poison, and magic in the face of danger.

Saving throws are a core game mechanic in Dungeons & Dragons, used to determine whether a character avoids or reduces a negative outcome, such as dodging a trap or resisting the effect of a spell. In circumstances where a character is attempting to avoid a negative outcome, a saving throw can be used to determine whether the resulting effect is reduced or avoided. The odds of success are influenced by the character's class, levels, and ability scores. Unlike attack rolls, saving throws are reactive measures triggered when a creature faces a spell, trap, poison, or supernatural force.

Type
Core Game Mechanic
Function
Resistance to spells, traps, poisons, and fear
DC Dependency
Success determined by comparing roll + modifier against a Difficulty Class

Lore & Background

The source does not provide specific lore or story about saving throws beyond their mechanical function. It states that saving throws are used in circumstances where a character is attempting to avoid a negative outcome, such as when dodging a trap or resisting the effect of a spell. The odds of success are influenced by the character's class, levels, and ability scores. The source does not mention deities, specific heroes, or metaphysical aspects of saving throws.

In Their Own Story

The source does not provide any narrative or story about saving throws. It only describes their mechanical use in the game.

Reader's Guide

Saving throws are used when a character attempts to avoid a negative outcome, such as dodging a trap or resisting the effect of a spell. The odds of success are influenced by the character's class, levels, and ability scores. In circumstances where a character is attempting to complete a task such as picking a lock, deactivating a trap, or pushing a boulder, a Difficulty Class must be hit or exceeded. Relevant ability bonuses are added to help players succeed. The source does not mention specific deities, proficiency bonuses, or the six ability scores mapping to specific aspects of existence in relation to saving throws.

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