15 Saving Throws
15.0.1 Saving Throws
Saving throws represent the ability to resist or avoid special attacks, such as spells or poisons. Like an attack roll, a saving throw is a d20 roll, with a target number based on the character's class and level. A natural (unadjusted) roll of 20 on a saving throw is always a success, while a natural 1 is always a failure.
The five categories of saving throw are as follows: Death Ray or Poison, Magic Wands, Paralysis or Petrify, Dragon Breath and Spells. Most spells and monster special attacks will indicate which category applies. In some unusual situations the Game Master will need to choose a category. One way to make this choice is to interpret the categories in terms of which ability is challenged: Death Ray or Poison (Constitution), Magic Wands (Wisdom), Paralysis or Petrify (Strength), Dragon Breath (Dexterity), and Spells (Intelligence).
The saving throw vs. Death Ray is often used as a "catch all" save versus many of the "ordinary" dangers encountered in a dungeon environment.
In general, saving throw rolls are not adjusted by ability score bonus or penalty figures. There are a few exceptions:
Poison saving use Constitution modifier.
Death Ray saving for system shock use Constitution modifier.
Saving throws against illusion spells (such as phantasmal force) use Intelligence modifier.
Saving throws against charm spells (and other forms of mind control) use Wisdom modifier.
15.0.2 Item Saving Throws
Item Saving throws are done when falling damage is incurred or when someone is targeted by a spell.
When a character is affected by an area effect (such as a fireball, lightning bolt, or acid spray), assume all carried items are safe if the character succeeds on their saving throw.
However, if the character fails the saving throw, the checks for item damage is as follows:
Item Damage Check (on a failed save):
Roll 1d6:
1–3: No items are damaged.
4–5: One exposed or fragile item is damaged or destroyed.
6: One random item is damaged or destroyed, even if it’s packed or protected.