Introduction: What’s the Buzz About the Hardness Chart in SWADE RPG?
If you’ve ever rolled dice in a Savage Worlds Adventure Edition (SWADE) RPG game, you’ve probably stumbled across a tricky situation involving objects: “Can my fireball punch through that steel door?” or “Will this speeding car survive the crash?” Enter the Hardness Chart, a handy tool to streamline these decisions and keep your campaign moving like a well-oiled machine.
This chart is a GM’s best friend when calculating damage to inanimate objects, vehicles, and even fortifications. But it’s not just about the numbers—it’s about building immersive stories where physics and fantasy collide. In this article, we’ll break down the hardness chart, explain how it works in SWADE, and show you how to wield it like a pro. Ready to roll?
What Is the Hardness Chart in SWADE RPG?
At its core, the Hardness Chart is a reference table in Savage Worlds Adventure Edition that defines how tough an object is. It assigns Hardness Values to various materials—like wood, stone, and metal—helping players and Game Masters (GMs) determine whether a given object can withstand a specific amount of damage.
Hardness acts as a kind of armor for objects. If the damage roll doesn’t exceed the hardness value, the object shrugs it off, no harm done. Think of it as the fantasy equivalent of, “Is this bridge going to collapse under the dragon’s weight?”
Hardness Chart Basics
Here’s a sneak peek at typical entries on the chart:
- Wood: 5–10
- Stone: 12–16
- Steel: 20+
- Reinforced Concrete: 25+
- Fantasy Materials (e.g., Mithril): Off the charts!
The GM ultimately decides what’s appropriate, but these benchmarks make quick work of the guesswork.
Why Should You Care About the Hardness Chart?
It’s easy to overlook object durability when spells are flying and monsters are roaring. But the Hardness Chart adds a layer of realism that keeps players engaged. Imagine this:
- A thief tries to crack a reinforced vault during a heist.
- A hero blocks a collapsing stone wall to save a village.
- A tank crashes into a barrier during a high-speed chase.
Each of these scenarios hinges on understanding how much punishment an object can take—and that’s where the Hardness Chart swoops in to save the day.
Key Benefits
- Keeps the game grounded: No more wild guesses about object durability.
- Encourages creative problem-solving: Players must strategize around tough obstacles.
- Simplifies GM rulings: Consistent mechanics mean fewer debates.
How to Use the Hardness Chart Like a Pro
Step 1: Identify the Object
First things first—determine the material and structure of the object. Is it a flimsy wooden crate or an iron-bound treasure chest?
Step 2: Check the Hardness Value
Refer to the Hardness Chart to find the object’s value. Keep in mind that SWADE encourages flexibility; the chart provides guidelines, not hard rules.
Step 3: Compare the Damage
When damage is dealt to the object, compare the roll to the Hardness Value:
- If the damage is equal to or lower than the value, the object takes no damage.
- If the damage exceeds the value, it’s toast—or at least damaged enough to matter.
Step 4: Add Context
Don’t just stop at the numbers. Add flavor to your descriptions! Instead of, “You broke through the door,” go with, “Your warhammer splinters the rotting wood, sending shards flying across the room.”
Hardness Chart Scenarios to Spice Up Your Campaign
1. The Siege Engine Surprise
Your party’s stronghold is under attack! Use the Hardness Chart to determine whether the gates can withstand an enemy battering ram. Hint: Reinforced steel gates are a lot sturdier than wooden ones.
2. The Explosive Dilemma
A TNT blast shakes the cave. Can the stone pillars hold, or will they crumble? Use the chart to calculate structural integrity and add nail-biting tension.
3. The Vehicle Chase Showdown
During a high-speed pursuit, bullets ricochet off the fleeing car. Does its reinforced chassis shrug off the hits? Check the Hardness Chart to keep the action flowing seamlessly.
FAQs About the Hardness Chart in SWADE RPG
1. Can I modify the chart for my campaign?
Absolutely! The SWADE system encourages customization. Feel free to tweak hardness values to fit your world, whether you’re adding futuristic materials or magical barriers.
2. What happens if an object takes partial damage?
Objects don’t “soak” damage like characters do, but you can describe visible wear and tear (e.g., cracks forming or dents appearing).
3. Do Hardness Values scale with size?
Yes, size and structural complexity often impact hardness. A massive stone wall will have a higher value than a small stone sculpture.
4. Can magical effects bypass hardness?
Some magical effects (like disintegration spells) can bypass or reduce hardness. The GM decides based on the spell description and context.
Tips and Tricks for GMs
Add Drama, Not Just Numbers
Don’t just say, “The spell fails.” Explain why it fails! Maybe the ancient dwarven wall has enchantments bolstering its durability.
Mix It Up
Throw in unexpected materials. What’s tougher—a steel safe or a chest made of dragonbone? Keep your players guessing!
Balance Challenges
If players frequently encounter indestructible objects, they might feel powerless. Sprinkle in obstacles that are tough but not impossible.
Conclusion: Why the Hardness Chart Is a Game-Changer
The Hardness Chart in SWADE RPG isn’t just about crunching numbers; it’s about adding depth and realism to your game. From daring heists to epic battles, this little table turns mundane objects into dynamic story elements. So next time your party asks, “Can I smash through this wall?” you’ll have the perfect answer—and maybe a few surprises up your sleeve.
Ready to put the Hardness Chart to work in your next campaign? Grab your dice, rally your players, and let the adventures begin!
