Aspects represent the interplay between two attributes. Unlike traditional RPGs that rely on single stats or long skill lists, this system uses attribute pairings to determine how your character interacts with the world.

Aspects are used for nearly all action rolls, defenses, and challenges. They’re at the heart of how your character expresses their strengths.

Each Aspect is based on the sum of two raw attribute scores, using this formula:

$$ \text{Aspect Value} = \left\lceil \frac{\text{Attribute A} + \text{Attribute B} - 20}{2} \right\rceil $$

“Ceil” means to round up. For example, ceil(1.2) = 2 and ceil(–1.8) = –1.

This determines the number of d4s you roll when using that Aspect. Aspect values are typically between 0 and 5 for beginning characters, but negative values are possible — especially for characters with low attribute scores or penalties from Body Type.

You’ll never roll fewer than 1d4 when a roll is called for, even if your Aspect is negative.

Example 1 STR 15 + DEX 13 = 28 $$ \left\lceil \frac{28 - 20}{2} \right\rceil = 4 $$ → Aspect 4

Example 2 CHA 9 + INT 8 = 17 $$ \left\lceil \frac{17 - 20}{2} \right\rceil = \left\lceil -1.5 \right\rceil = -1 $$ → Aspect –1

Example 3 CON 13 + WIS 10 = 23 $$ \left\lceil \frac{23 - 20}{2} \right\rceil = \left\lceil 1.5 \right\rceil = 2 $$ → Aspect 2

The full list of standard Aspects can be found in the Aspect Table.

When you take an action, the GM will call for a roll using the Aspect that best fits the situation.

Examples:

• Presence (STR + CHA) to intimidate a bandit
• Reflex (DEX + WIS) to cross a narrow beam
• Insight (INT + WIS) to understand someone’s motives
• Willpower (WIS + CHA) to maintain concentration on a spell

Your Aspect value determines your d4 dice pool. See 🎲 Taking Actions with the D4 Dice Pool for how rolls work and how Aspect values scale action economy.

If you're adapting this system to a d20-style mechanic (e.g. a 5e hack or something like Daggerheart), you can convert each Aspect to a single modifier:

$$ \text{Aspect Modifier} = \left\lfloor \frac{\text{Modifier A} + \text{Modifier B}}{2} \right\rfloor $$

“Floor” means to round down. For example, floor(2.9) = 2 and floor(–1.2) = –2.

This makes Aspects behave like traditional skill bonuses or saving throw modifiers and allows easy conversion between systems.

Aspects provide major benefits:

• ✅ Replace skills and saving throws with a single, elegant system
• ✅ Reflect how characters combine traits, not just max a single stat
• ✅ Encourage creative thinking and justification of approach
• ✅ Make character sheets simpler and gameplay more flexible

Aspects are designed to reduce complexity while increasing character depth and tactical variety. Once you're familiar with them, they’ll become second nature.

Ready to see the full list? Check the Aspect Table for names, pairings, and common uses.