Tunnels & Trolls: The First Six-Sider Role-Playing Game

The world's second role-playing game, Tunnels & Trolls, also happens to be the first role-playing game to use six-sided dice exclusively. Not only was it played with more easily obtained dice, it also had easier rules.

Character Creation

Player character attributes are generated by rolling three dice for each of the following: Strength, Intelligence, Luck, Constitution, Dexterity, and Charisma. Starting gold is generated by rolling three dice and multiplying by 10. Height and weight are determined by rolling three dice and consulting a chart.

Combat

Each weapon has dice and "adds" (a number added to the dice roll). Characters might add or subtract further adds based on certain above average or below average attributes. Monsters have dice and adds based on their Monster Rating. In combat, the members of each party roll their dice and adds, combining them all. The lower number is subtracted from the higher number and the remainder is the damage inflicted on the losing party (minus any armor that might be worn), with the damage divided amongst its members.

Saving Rolls

Whenever a character attempts to do something risky or avoid something, the player makes a "saving roll" by rolling two dice. Doubles "add and roll over." The target number varies depending on the level of difficulty.

Level	Formula
1	20 minus attribute
2	25 minus attribute
3	30 minus attribute
4	35 minus attribute

This progresses according to the formula: (Level x 5) + 15 = # to shoot for

Normally, saving rolls are made versus a character's Luck, but sometimes other attributes will be used instead.

Summary

Tunnels & Trolls may not have used "D6" (or "d6") dice notation, but it was clearly a system centered on the six-sider, and its influence on the role-playing hobby can be felt to this day. In fact, not only can you buy the latest edition, Deluxe Tunnels & Trolls, but you can even buy the First Edition Reprint from Flying Buffalo Inc. PDFs are also available via DriveThruRPG.com including a free short version of the rule book, a Beginner's Bundle for T&T, the 1st edition rules, Deluxe T&T, and even the 4th edition rules. (The edition I've always played — 5th — no longer seems to be available through official channels, but might still be found elsewhere.)