If your anything like me I have never really been satisfied with the amount of importance ability scores carry in OD&D. That's not to say that by the book isn't a good system, or that the way ability scores are utilized in OD&D are broken in any way. No, I've just always felt that they way ability scores are handled are a bit bland and should have greater importance, making a greater impact on my games.
A Fighter with a STR of 16 should feel stronger and more capable at general STR based tasks than a Fighter with a STR of 8.
To remedy this and place a greater importance on ability scores, I utilize a roll under system.
- I have players roll 3d6 in order.
- They are then allowed to swap any two ability scores.
- Anytime a PC attempts a task that is in question I have them make an ability check using a roll under system
For example if a Fighter is attempting to flip over a wagon to take cover, I would have him make a Strength check by rolling a d20. If the Fighter manages to roll under on a d20 roll, then the ability check is a success and the task is achieved.
Utilizing this system makes ability scores matter and really brings them to life. There is much more mechanical significance to a Fighter having a STR of 16 as opposed to a STR of 8. The Fighter with a STR of 16 is far more likely to accomplish a STR based task.
In social situations a PC with a high Charisma should be far more successful at convincing someone of something then a PC with a very low Charisma.
The roll under ability checks are a great way to drive gameplay at the table.
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