d616 Role-Playing System

The d616 Role-Playing System is a set of rules and game mechanics originally designed for the Marvel Multiverse RPG. The system uses three six-sided dice, one of which is designated the "Marvel die," and has a Marvel logo in place of the 1. The core mechanic is the Action Check, when a hero attempts something dangerous, like fighting a supervillain. So how does it work? To make an Action Check, a player rolls two normal six-sided dice and the Marvel die, then sums the total of the roll. Whatever the result, players also get to add one of their six ability scores, whichever is most relevant to their action, and compare the total roll to a target number set by the game master. This target number is based on the difficulty of the action and strength of the opposition. If the final result is equal to or greater than the target number, the action succeeds! The Marvel die is special, and if it rolls the Marvel logo, it counts as a 6 and the action becomes Fantastic, granting an additional edge to the character whether they succeed or fail. If they roll two 6s on the other two dice as well, it's an Ultimate Fantastic Success, and automatically succeeds with bonus benefits. Characters might also have edges or trouble, which can modify their rolls. Edges represent circumstantial advantages or momentum from previous Fantastic Successes, and allow players to re-roll any die they choose. Trouble comes from unfavorable circumstances or lack of expertise, and forces players to re-roll their highest die. As characters grow more powerful and increase in rank, their challenges often increase in difficulty, as do their powers and abilities. This way, you can start as street-level heroes who grow over time into near-cosmic forces to be reckoned with!