If you’re brand-spankin’ new to being a Dungeon Master, you may be wondering “What are ability scores in DnD 5e?”. That’s a valid question. So, it turns out they’re super important. These ability scores will play a role in nearly everything a character attempts to do. A Barbarian intimidating a prisoner or a Wizard studying arcane runes? Yep. Pitching a business idea to the Goblin King or pretending to be a ghost? Oh yeah, Ability Scores will help determine how successful the characters will be.
Today’s Article Will Discuss:
- What are Ability Scores in DnD 5e?
- How are Ability Scores used in DnD 5e?
- DnD 5e Ability Scores Explained
What are Ability Scores in DnD 5e?
There are 6 different Abilities in DnD 5e, and each of these gets a numerical value, or score, assigned to it:
- Strength
- Dexterity
- Constitution
- Intelligence
- Wisdom
- Charisma
In 5e, Ability Scores represent a character’s aptitude and how capable they are in various aspects of life and adventuring. Ability Scores are not exclusive to Player Characters, however. Every single creature and monster that exists in your game world will also have ability scores. Generally speaking, an Ability Score in 5e is a value that will range anywhere from 1 to 20. It’s possible for a player character to have an Ability Score that is higher than 20 but this is only achieved through magical items or special abilities.
To put things in perspective a bit, the average person walking down the street can be assumed to have a score of 10 for each of their Abilities. Capable of getting by in everyday life but nothing to write home about. To push things to the extreme, someone with an Ability Score of 1 is pretty fucking useless while someone with an Ability Score above 20 is absolutely god-like and glorious.
How are Ability Scores used in DnD 5e?
Although Ability Scores have a couple of uses in the game, I’d argue that they are primarily used to determine whether the player gets any bonuses when attempting to do something and must roll some dice.
These rolls include but are not limited to…
- Attacking an enemy or rolling damage
- Casting a spell
- Skill checks
- Saving Throws
- Ability checks
- Initiative
Each of these items could have their own dedicated article. I won’t be going in-depth for any of these, but a few more details will be explained for each of the Ability Scores below.
DnD 5e Ability Scores Explained