Experience Points (XP)
Beginner
Progression
Also known as: experience, exp, advancement points
Definition
A progression currency earned through play and spent to improve your character. Different systems award XP for different activities and spend it differently.
How it works in different systems
D&D 5e: XP from monsters and milestones. Thresholds for each level. Many groups use milestone leveling instead.
Vampire V5: XP spent directly on traits. Award 1-3 XP per session based on goals and drama.
Call of Cthulhu 7e: No XP - improve skills by using them (check skills you succeeded with, roll to improve between sessions).
Powered by the Apocalypse: Mark XP for triggering specific moves or end-of-session questions. Advance at 5+ marks.
Example
“After defeating the dragon, the party earns 15,000 XP split four ways. With 3,750 XP each, everyone levels up from 7 to 8!”
Common Mistakes
- Expecting XP for every combat (some systems reward goals, roleplay, or failure)
- Hoarding XP instead of spending it (in games where you spend XP directly)
- Not asking how the GM awards XP in session zero