Fighting Words

I like the Hero System, better known by its superhero rules set, Champions.  I also like D&D in every version since 1E (never played OD&D, so I have no opinion there).  I run both.  Champions has a reputation for being math-intensive, which intimidates a lot of folks.  To them I say the following:

Champions uses the THAC0 system, but simpler.

That’s right – I said it: Champions combat uses a simpler mechanic than AD&D.  Don’t believe me?  Let’s run it down:

THAC0

• THAC0 uses the number your character needs to roll greater than to hit AC 0 as it’s base number.  This base number changes based on class AND level.
• THAC0 subtracts positive AC values from this number and adds negatives to reach your targets AC.
• THAC0 then subtracts any positive magic bonuses you have from this number.
• Various modifiers are then applied based on cover, position, range, et cetera to reach the final target number.
• A d20 is rolled: if you rolled over the target number, you hit, otherwise you missed.  If you rolled a 20 on the d20, you may have done critical damage, depending upon the edition you are playing.  You may have to hit again to confirm the critical.
• You roll damage based on weapon (or spell).  If you made a critical hit, you may roll additional dice and/or multiply damage modifiers.

Hero System

• Hero System uses a single target number (11) as the number you need to roll higher than to hit.  This base number never changes.
• Hero System adds the targets DCV (armor value) value.
• Hero System then subtracts your OCV (bonuses to hit) from this number.
• Various modifiers are then applied based on cover, position, range, et cetera to reach the final target number.
• 3d6 is rolled: if you rolled over the target number, you hit, otherwise you missed.  There is no critical damage.
• You roll damage based on weapon (or spell).

Also, figuring out a Hero System character’s OCV is as simple as (if not simpler than) determining bonuses to hit for a THAC0 system.

So let’s review: fixed target number, opponent defense applied one way, no re-rolls for crits, no doubling dice and multiplying damage modifiers (no crits).  That sounds like the same basic system but simpler to me.  And if you balk at adding multiple d6, talk to your wizard’s fireball damage.

[Disclaimer: Yes, I know character creation in Hero System is points based and D&D isn’t, but A) once your character is built in Hero System, that math is over and does not need to be repeated while a THAC0 character has several things that change every time it levels (THAC0, saves, and hit points to name a few), and B) build a D&D character over first level and then equip him and you are getting just as complicated, especially if magic items are available for purchase.]