Target number

Game Mechanic: Target Number
A Target Number (TN) establishes if the result of Attribute +1d20 +/- applicable modifiers is successful. It is the number that must be exceeded for a complete success.

Example: A Guild Recruit is provided with a uniform that provides defense score (DS) of 20. Even if they have no opportunity to dodge or parry, an opponent must roll Accuracy + 1d20 and achieve at least a 21 in order to successful hit them and cause damage.

When character ties with a Target Number, it is up to the GM's discretion to decide if they were at least partially successful and might have achieved some but not all of their intended goal.

When an attack roll, skill check, knowledge test or other dice roll gets a result lower than the target number, the action fails.

The most common Target Numbers (TN) in combat are Defense Scores (DS) and Magical Defense Scores (MDS). Defense Score creates a base TN for mundane and weaponskill attacks; Magical Defense Score creates a base TN for spells, curses, and other spiritual or arcane-based attacks.

Below is a chart of suggested default Target Numbers (TN) for skill checks and knowledge tests.