====== GM Guide ======

ODDS RPG is designed for fast rulings and meaningful consequences.

Only call for a roll when:

  * The outcome is uncertain
  * Failure has consequences
  * The situation will change

If nothing meaningful changes, do not roll.

Make decisions confidently and keep play moving.

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===== Setting Target Numbers =====

Use this table as your baseline:

Easy → 8  
Standard → 12  
Challenging → 15  
Hard → 18  
Extreme → 22  

If unsure, default to 12.

Adjust TN by ±2 when:

  * Time pressure exists
  * Environment is unfavorable
  * Tools or preparation are exceptional
  * Positioning provides advantage

Avoid stacking more than ±4 unless the situation is extreme.

Consistency matters more than precision.

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===== Running Combat Efficiently =====

Combat should feel tense, not slow.

At the start of combat:
  Roll Initiative (1d20 + Agility).

During combat:

  * Ask players for intent first.
  * Then resolve the roll.
  * Keep turns under 30 seconds when possible.

Avoid measuring exact distances.
Use abstract range bands.

If combat stalls:

  * Add environmental pressure
  * Introduce reinforcements
  * Escalate stakes

Combat should evolve, not stagnate.

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===== Encounter Balance =====

Use these as baseline assumptions:

Balanced Encounter:
  1 Standard enemy per player

Hard Encounter:
  2 Minions per player
  OR 1 Elite per 2 players

Boss Encounter:
  1 Boss for the group

Adjust using:
[[projects:odds_rpg:systems:enemy_builder]]

If uncertain, err slightly lower.
You can always escalate mid-fight.

If combat is too easy:

  * Add reinforcements
  * Increase aggression
  * Introduce environmental hazards

If combat is too hard:

  * Enemies retreat or shift tactics
  * Provide escape routes
  * Change enemy objectives

Never trap players in unavoidable defeat without narrative purpose.

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===== Using Complications (Natural 1) =====

A Complication should:

  * Escalate tension
  * Introduce a new problem
  * Change the situation

Examples:

Combat:
  Weapon jams
  Position exposed
  Reinforcements alerted

Social:
  Insult given
  Hidden observer overhears
  Information incomplete

Exploration:
  Noise draws attention
  Resource damaged
  Time lost

Complications move the story forward.
They do not simply negate success.

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===== Handling Failure =====

Failure should rarely halt progress completely.

Instead, failure should:

  * Increase risk
  * Add time pressure
  * Consume resources
  * Reveal a new obstacle

If success is required for the story to continue:

  Allow success, but add a consequence.

Avoid dead ends.

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===== Running Extended Tasks =====

For hacking, rituals, negotiations, or repairs:

  1. Set a Progress Goal (3–10).
  2. Define what happens on interruption.
  3. Increase tension on failures.

Each roll should change the situation.

Do not allow Extended Tasks to feel repetitive.

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===== Awarding Advancement =====

Use Milestones, not experience math.

Minor Milestone:
  Every 2–3 sessions

Major Milestone:
  End of significant story arc

Advancement options include:

  * Skill increase
  * Attribute increase
  * Talent
  * Wealth adjustment
  * Narrative Asset

Tie growth to story impact.

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===== Quick NPC Creation =====

When you need an NPC immediately:

Minor NPC:
  +3 in specialty
  8 Health

Standard Threat:
  +5 attack
  12–16 Health

Elite:
  +7 attack
  20+ Health
  1–2 abilities

Boss:
  +9 attack
  30+ Health
  2–3 abilities

Refine using:
[[projects:odds_rpg:systems:enemy_builder]]

Keep NPCs simple.
Only build what matters.

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===== Session Structure (Fast Template) =====

Act 1 – Hook  
  Present problem or opportunity.

Act 2 – Escalation  
  Complication or opposition appears.

Act 3 – Confrontation  
  Major conflict or revelation.

Resolution  
  Consequences and advancement.
  Seed future hooks.

Keep scenes purposeful.
Cut slow moments quickly.

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===== Table Rule Priority =====

When rules conflict:

  1. Fiction first.
  2. Clarity over precision.
  3. Momentum over perfection.

If unsure:

  Make a ruling.
  Move forward.
  Adjust between sessions if necessary.

Consistency builds trust.

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ODDS RPG GM Guide v1.0 Playtest