rule-action-checks-and-expertise

name	rule-action-checks-and-expertise
description	Non-combat resolution rules: difficulty ladder, opposed rolls, and expertise progression constraints.

Action Checks and Expertise Rules (Thematic)

Scope

Use this skill for hacking, piloting, social tests, investigation, improvised actions, and all non-standard adjudications.

Resolution model

• GM chooses most relevant stat or expertise based on declared approach.
• Player rolls d20 + relevant stat + expertise (if applicable).
• Success if total meets or exceeds difficulty.

Difficulty ladder

• Trivial: 6
• Easy: 10
• Moderate: 14
• Difficult: 18
• Very Difficult: 22
• Extremely Difficult: 26

Opposed checks

• Both sides roll d20 + relevant modifiers.
• Initiator must exceed (not merely tie) defender total.

Expertise progression constraints

• Skills have numbered expertise bubbles.
• You can only fill bubbles with number <= character level.
• Training increases check reliability and should be treated as a major advancement resource.

Adjudication best practices

• Reward specific, context-rich player approach by choosing the most appropriate skill.
• Keep consistency in repeated task types so players can plan builds.
• Use opposed checks for active resistance, static DCs for environmental/systemic challenges.

Search cues / aliases

skill check, dc, difficulty, opposed roll, expertise bubbles, hacking check, persuasion check, investigation roll.