Quick Links
Tabletop systems come with a slew of different kinds of dice mechanics. From exploding dice to rolling different kinds of dice under different circumstances. This all plays into how they calculate the probability of success and can make a task that much easier or harder to overcome.
For Dungeons & Dragons, one of the mechanics it uses is rolling with Advantage or rolling with Disadvantage. This will usually occur due to specific circumstances that are present at the time you would normally attempt a roll. This mechanic is used to great effect in the video game adaptation of the system, Baldur's Gate 3.
Understanding Advantage & Disadvantage
Advantage
If something says you may make a roll with Advantage, it simply means that when you roll a twenty-sided die, also known as a D20, you will roll two D20s instead. Then, you will use whichever of the two D20s has the higher value. If the first result is a 6 and the second result is a 12, you will use the 12. Likewise, if the first result is 19 and the second is a 4, you will use the 19. This can dramatically increase your odds of gaining a successful roll for a skill check or an attack.
Disadvantage
Just like with Advantage, there will be times you are told to roll with Disadvantage. This means two D20 are rolled, and you will have to use whichever of the two is lower. The first result could be a critical hit of 20, while the other could be a critical fail of 1. With Disadvantage, you would use the 1.
When Do You Have Advantage?
Your character will have Advantage for their rolls whenever any of the following is true:
- Your target is not aware of your character’s presence yet.
- Your character has the high ground over their target.
- Through a feature provided by their class or subclass, such as a Barbarian's Rage or the True Strike cantrip.
- Through a special piece of gear or item that grants Advantage.
When Do You Have Disadvantage?
Your character will have Disadvantage for their rolls whenever any of the following is true:
- Your character attempts to make an attack while their senses are obscured.
- Your character attempts to make a ranged attack while in melee.
- Your character attempts to make a Stealth check while wearing Heavy Armor.
Can You Remove Disadvantage?
Some special features granted by subclasses or certain gear will say when you will not be affected by Disadvantage by meeting certain conditions. This can dramatically change the playstyle of that class and provide a new and fun way to experience them thanks to this new strength in their arsenal.