Pathfinder 2e: Round Up or Round Down? A Comprehensive Guide

Introduction

Pathfinder 2nd Edition (PF2e) is the latest iteration of the popular tabletop roleplaying game, Pathfinder. The system has undergone significant changes from its predecessor, leading to both praise and criticism. This article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the PF2e rounding rules, including their implications and how to apply them effectively.

Rounding in Pathfinder 2e

In PF2e, most numerical values are rounded down to the nearest whole number. This applies to:

• Dice rolls: The result of a die roll is rounded down to the nearest whole number.
• Skill checks: The total result of a skill check is rounded down.
• Saving throws: The total result of a saving throw is rounded down.
• Damage: The amount of damage dealt is rounded down.

Exceptions to the Rounding Down Rule

Values are rounded up in the following scenarios:

• Ability scores: Ability scores are always rounded up to the nearest whole number.
• Hit points: Hit points are always rounded up.
• Armor Class (AC): AC is always rounded up.

Implications of the Rounding Rules

The rounding rules in PF2e have several important implications:

• More consistent results: Rounding down reduces the randomness inherent in die rolls and skill checks, leading to more predictable outcomes.
• Improved balance: The rounding rules help ensure that character abilities and encounters are balanced, as smaller bonuses and penalties are less likely to have a significant impact.
• Faster gameplay: Rounding down simplifies calculations and reduces the time spent on mathematical discrepancies.

Stories and Lessons

Story 1:

A group of adventurers encounters a colossal dragon. The dragon's breath attack deals 18 damage to the party's rogue. However, since damage is rounded down, the rogue only takes 17 damage. This allows the rogue to stay alive and continue the fight.

Lesson: The rounding down rule can save characters from devastating hits, especially at lower levels.

Story 2:

A wizard attempts to cast a spell that requires a DC 22 Arcana check. The wizard rolls a 21 and adds their +3 bonus, for a total of 24. However, since skill check results are rounded down, the wizard fails the check.

Lesson: Even small bonuses can be critical in PF2e due to the rounding down rule. Players must carefully consider their choices and allocate their bonuses wisely.

Story 3:

A fighter with an AC of 20 is attacked by an enemy with a +5 bonus to attack. The enemy rolls a 20, for a total of 25. However, since AC is rounded up, the fighter avoids the attack.

Lesson: The rounding up rule for AC can give characters a significant advantage in combat, especially when combined with other defensive measures.

Tables

Table 1: Rounding Rules Summary

Table 2: Example Rounding Calculations

Table 3: Benefits and Drawbacks of Rounding Rules

Tips and Tricks

• Consider investing in precision feats: Feats that grant a bonus to specified skills or rolls can help mitigate the effects of rounding down.
• Round up AC as often as possible: AC is the only value that is always rounded up. Maximizing AC can significantly increase character survivability.
• Be aware of the implications of your rolls: Pay attention to the rounding rule for each type of value to accurately assess your chances of success or failure.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Reduces randomness and improves balance.
• Simplifies calculations and speeds up gameplay.
• Can make characters more resilient at lower levels.

Cons:

• Can make certain encounters more difficult.
• Can reduce the impact of small bonuses.
• Can lead to unexpected outcomes.

Conclusion

The rounding rules in PF2e play a significant role in determining the game's outcomes and strategies. By understanding how rounding works, players can make informed decisions and optimize their characters' abilities. While the rules may have both benefits and drawbacks, they ultimately contribute to the game's balance and enjoyability.

Call to Action

Have you had any interesting experiences with the PF2e rounding rules? Share your stories and insights in the comments below!