What To Know
- In most TTRPGs, a d100 roll is read as a two-digit number, where the first digit represents the tens place and the second digit represents the ones place.
- You might wonder, “What if I roll a 9 on the tens die and a 5 on the ones die.
- However, if you roll a 10 on the tens die and a 1 on the ones die, you would get 10 + 1 = 11.
The d100, or percentile die, is a staple in many tabletop role-playing games (TTRPGs). It’s used to determine a wide range of outcomes, from attack rolls to skill checks to random events. But what if you don’t have a d100? Fear not, fellow adventurers! You can easily roll a d100 using just two standard d10s. This method is surprisingly simple and surprisingly versatile.
The Basics of the d100
Before we dive into rolling a d100 with d10s, let’s quickly understand how a d100 works. A d100, as its name suggests, has 100 sides, numbered from 1 to 100. In most TTRPGs, a d100 roll is read as a two-digit number, where the first digit represents the tens place and the second digit represents the ones place. For example, a roll of 35 means 30 + 5 = 35.
The D10 Method: Understanding the System
The beauty of using two d10s to simulate a d100 lies in its simplicity. Here’s how it works:
1. The Tens Die: One of your d10s acts as the “tens die.” This die is used to determine the tens place of your result.
2. The Ones Die: The other d10 acts as the “ones die.” This die determines the ones place of your result.
3. Combining the Results: Add the results of the tens die and the ones die together to get your final d100 roll.
Example Time!
Let’s say you roll a 7 on your tens die and a 3 on your ones die. You add these together: 7 + 3 = 10. Your d100 roll is 10.
What About Zero?
You might notice that a standard d10 goes from 1 to 10. So, how do you get a 0 for the tens place to represent rolls like 01, 02, 03, and so on?
This is where the magic of the d10 shines! When you roll a 0 on the tens die, it represents 100. Here’s how it works:
- Tens Die = 0, Ones Die = 1: This combination represents 100 + 1 = 1.
- Tens Die = 0, Ones Die = 2: This combination represents 100 + 2 = 2.
- Tens Die = 0, Ones Die = 3: This combination represents 100 + 3 = 3.
And so on, all the way up to 10.
Rolling Beyond 100
You might wonder, “What if I roll a 9 on the tens die and a 5 on the ones die?” This combination would give you 95, which is within the d100 range. However, if you roll a 10 on the tens die and a 1 on the ones die, you would get 10 + 1 = 11. This is outside the d100 range. In this case, you would simply roll again until you get a combination that results in a number between 1 and 100.
Variations and Tips
While the standard method is straightforward, there are a few variations and tips you can use to make your d100 rolls even smoother:
- Marked Dice: Some d10s come with markings for the tens place. These dice usually have a 0 for 100 and then numbers 1 through 9. This can make it easier to read your results.
- Double Zero: Some TTRPGs use a double zero (00) to represent 100. If you’re playing with this system, you can use a separate d10 to represent the hundreds place, rolling a 0 on this die to represent 100.
- The “Drop and Add” Method: If you’re using standard d10s without markings, you can use the “drop and add” method. To do this, roll both dice and add their results. If the total is 11 or higher, drop the tens digit and add it to the ones digit. For example, if you roll a 9 and a 5, you would add them to get 14. Drop the 1 and add it to the 4 to get 5. Your final roll would be 5.
- The “Subtract from 100” Method: Another alternative is to subtract the total of your two d10s from 100. For example, if you roll a 6 and a 2, you add them to get 8. Subtract 8 from 100 to get 92. This method can be helpful if you’re trying to avoid rolling multiple times for numbers over 100.
The Advantages of Using Two D10s
Using two d10s to simulate a d100 offers several advantages:
- Accessibility: Most TTRPG players already have d10s, making this method easily accessible.
- Versatility: This method works for any TTRPG that uses a d100.
- Simplicity: It’s a straightforward and easy-to-understand method.
- Cost-Effective: You don’t need to buy a separate d100 die.
Beyond the Game: Applications of the D100
The d100 isn’t just for TTRPGs! It can be used for various fun and creative purposes, including:
- Random Number Generation: Need a random number between 1 and 100? Use your two d10s!
- Decision Making: Can’t decide between two options? Roll a d100 and let fate decide.
- Creative Writing: Use a d100 to generate random plot points, character traits, or even dialogue.
- Games and Activities: Create your own games and activities using the d100 as a core mechanic.
Mastering the d100: A Final Note
Rolling a d100 with two d10s is a simple yet powerful technique. It allows you to enjoy the thrill of the percentile die without needing a dedicated d100. With this method, you can add a touch of randomness and unpredictability to your TTRPGs, creative projects, and even everyday life. So grab your d10s, roll the dice, and let the adventure begin!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use any two d10s to roll a d100?
A: Yes, any two standard d10s will work.
Q: What if I roll a 10 on the tens die and a 0 on the ones die?
A: This combination represents 100. You would treat it as a roll of 100, not 10.
Q: Can I use a d10 and a d20 to roll a d100?
A: While this might seem possible, it wouldn’t be accurate. A d20 only has 20 sides, so you wouldn’t be able to generate all the numbers from 1 to 100.
Q: Is there a way to roll a d100 without using d10s?
A: Yes, you can use online random number generators or apps to generate a random number between 1 and 100. However, using two d10s provides a more tactile and engaging experience.
Q: What are some other ways to use a d100?
A: You can use a d100 to generate random numbers for any purpose, such as deciding who goes first in a game, picking a random item from a list, or even creating a random character trait. The possibilities are endless!
