Dice mechanics
Criticals & fumbles in Mage: The Ascension 20th Anniversary
How critical results usually work.
Explanation
Criticals amplify outcomes. The important part is consistency: decide what extra effect means in your table’s tone and keep it story-forward.
Examples
Example: make crits change the scene
A critical should add a concrete benefit: extra effect, better position, reduced future risk, or a new option.
Example: messy win (V5-style)
If your system has volatile outcomes, treat 'big success' as success + consequence.
Common mistakes (smallest fix)
- Mistake: Treating criticals as just 'more damage'. Fix: Make criticals change position, options, or future risk, not just numbers.
- Mistake: Inconsistent critical rules. Fix: Write down one house interpretation and apply it consistently.
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