Hero Points

Hero Points represent momentum, luck, and narrative focus.

They allow characters to push beyond normal limits in critical moments.

Hero Points are optional but recommended for cinematic play.

Each character begins a session with:

3 Hero Points

Maximum Hero Points:

5

Unused Hero Points do not carry over unless the GM allows it.

You may spend 1 Hero Point to:

• Reroll any one d20 roll (keep the new result)
• Add +5 to a roll after seeing the result
• Act immediately after another character
• Reduce incoming damage by 5
• Remove one Condition

You may only spend 1 Hero Point per roll unless the GM allows otherwise.

Hero Points must be declared immediately after the triggering roll or event.

The GM may award a Hero Point when a player:

• Takes a meaningful risk
• Acts in line with their Background Trait
• Accepts a Complication
• Advances the story in an interesting way
• Suffers a significant setback

Hero Points reward bold, story-driven play.

Avoid giving them for routine success.

A player may voluntarily accept a Complication in exchange for 1 Hero Point.

The Complication must:

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

The GM has final approval.

This option keeps failure dynamic and player-driven.

A character who is Downed may spend 1 Hero Point to:

Immediately regain 5 Health  
OR immediately stand and act

This may only be used once per scene.

Heroic Recovery represents dramatic resilience, not immortality.

Hero Points:

• Encourage bold action
• Soften extreme dice swings
• Support small parties
• Create cinematic pacing

If play feels too safe:

Reduce starting Hero Points to 2.

If play feels too lethal:

Increase starting Hero Points to 4.

Adjust between sessions, not mid-session.

ODDS RPG Hero Points v1.0 Playtest