Round Up or Down? A Comprehensive Guide to PF2e Rules

In the thrilling world of Pathfinder Second Edition (PF2e), players often encounter situations where numerical values need to be rounded up or down. This can significantly impact character abilities, encounter outcomes, and overall gameplay. This comprehensive guide will delve into the intricacies of rounding rules in PF2e, empowering you to make informed decisions on the battlefield.

Types of Rounding in PF2e

PF2e employs two main types of rounding:

• Round Up: Values are increased to the nearest whole number.
• Round Down: Values are decreased to the nearest whole number.

Rules for Rounding

Rounding to the Nearest Whole Number

• If a value is exactly 5 or greater, it is rounded up.
• If a value is less than 5, it is rounded down.
• For example:
  • 5.5 rounds up to 6.
  • 4.4 rounds down to 4.

Rounding to the Nearest Ten

• In cases where values are to be rounded to the nearest multiple of 10, the same principles apply:
  • Values greater than or equal to 50 are rounded up by 10.
  • Values below 50 are rounded down by 10.
  • For example:
    • 55 rounds up to 60.
    • 49 rounds down to 40.

Rounding Specific Values

• 0.5: Always rounds up.
• 0.05: Always rounds down.
• This ensures consistency in game mechanics and prevents confusion.

Common Scenarios for Rounding

Calculating Damage

• When determining the damage dealt by an attack, each damage die is rolled and the total is calculated.
• The result is then rounded down to determine the actual damage inflicted.
• For instance, a roll of 4d6 may result in a total of 18. Rounding this down gives 17 as the final damage.

Modifying Ability Scores

• When adjusting an ability score due to ability boosts, flaws, or external effects, the change is rounded to the nearest whole number.
• For example, increasing Strength by +2.5 results in a total modifier of +3.

Determining Initiative

• Each character's initiative modifier is rounded down to determine their initiative roll.
• A modifier of +4.5 rounds down to +4, benefiting slower characters and reducing inflated bonuses.

Avoiding Common Mistakes

• Avoid manually adding or subtracting rounding numbers. Use the official rules for accurate calculations.
• Pay attention to whether rounding up or down is specified in specific game rules or feats.
• Consider the potential impact of rounding before making decisions. For instance, rounding down a saving throw result may lead to a failed roll.

Pros and Cons of Rounding

Pros

• Simplified Calculations: Rounding makes calculations faster and more manageable, especially during complex encounters.
• Balance: Rounding up or down can maintain game balance and prevent extreme values.
• Clarity: Using consistent rounding principles enhances clarity and allows players to better understand game mechanics.

Cons

• Potential Inaccuracy: Rounding down can result in slightly less accurate calculations, particularly for small values.
• Limited Options: The lack of flexible rounding options may not always be ideal for specific situations.
• Confusing Exceptions: Some exceptions to rounding rules can lead to confusion and require careful attention.

Interesting Anecdotes

The Lost Loot: A group of adventurers stumbled upon a treasure chest containing 150 gold pieces. The party's rogue attempted to appraise the treasure, rolling a 12 on the Appraise check. According to the PF2e rules, the check result should be rounded down to 10. However, the rogue insisted on rounding up, arguing that 12.5 rounded to 13. The GM agreed, resulting in the group receiving an additional 50 gold pieces.

The Failed Save: A brave paladin found himself grappling with a deadly creature. As the paladin rolled his saving throw, he scored a 15. Excitedly, he exclaimed, "I save!" However, the GM reminded him that the saving throw modifier was -2, resulting in a final roll of 13, which rounded down to 10. The paladin failed the save and suffered the consequences.

The Clutch Hit: In a close combat, a rogue desperately needed to hit with a ranged attack to save their ally. The rogue rolled a d20 and scored a 19. With a sneak attack bonus of +3, the total roll came to 22. The target's AC was 21. Rounding up to the nearest whole number, the attack hit, saving the day.

Useful Tables

Rounding Table for Damage Calculations

Rounding Table for Ability Score Modifiers

Rounding Table for Initiative Rolls

Call to Action

Mastering the intricacies of PF2e rounding rules is essential for accurate gameplay and strategic decision-making. Embrace these guidelines, avoid common pitfalls, and wield your knowledge like a seasoned adventurer. By rounding wisely, you can optimize your character's abilities, maximize your chances of success, and create unforgettable stories on the tabletop.