What is a statistic in role-playing games?
A statistic in role-playing games is a piece of data that represents a particular aspect of a fictional character. That piece of data is usually an integer or sometimes a set of dice.
Short answers, pulled from the story.
A statistic in role-playing games is a piece of data that represents a particular aspect of a fictional character. That piece of data is usually an integer or sometimes a set of dice.
Attributes describe natural characteristics common to all characters like strength or wisdom and influence the chance to succeed in a skill test by adding to a die roll. Many games also include social characteristics such as charisma or physical appearance.
Champions released in 1981 introduced a points-based system of purchasing attributes and skills. This improved game balance and flexibility and these points became known as character points.
Derived statistics are often used during combat including hit points, Armor Class, and initiative. They represent a single capability such as weight lifted or speed moved and depend on other basic statistics.
Disadvantages add flavor that cannot be obtained solely by a list of positive traits and they balance advantages or other positive statistics. Systems of advantages and disadvantages allow direct relationships between how someone wants to play and skill rolls.