Does a Saving Throw Count as a Check in D&D 5e? A Comprehensive Guide

Unequivocally, no, a saving throw does not count as an ability check in Dungeons and Dragons 5th Edition (5e). While all three – ability checks, attack rolls, and saving throws – utilize a d20 roll, they are distinct mechanics with different purposes and implications. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for mastering the game’s rules and making informed decisions as both a player and a Dungeon Master (DM). Let’s dive into the nuances.

Understanding the Core Mechanics: Checks, Attacks, and Saves

To fully grasp why saving throws aren’t checks, it’s essential to define each mechanic:

• Ability Check: An ability check tests a character’s or monster’s innate talent and training to overcome a challenge. It involves rolling a d20 and adding the relevant ability modifier (Strength, Dexterity, Constitution, Intelligence, Wisdom, or Charisma), and potentially a proficiency bonus if the character is proficient in a related skill. The DM calls for an ability check when the outcome of an action is uncertain. Examples include climbing a wall (Strength check), picking a lock (Dexterity check), or persuading a guard (Charisma check).
• Attack Roll: An attack roll determines whether an attacker hits a target. It involves rolling a d20, adding the attacker’s relevant ability modifier (usually Strength or Dexterity), and adding a proficiency bonus if the attacker is proficient with the weapon or attack. The result is compared to the target’s Armor Class (AC). If the attack roll equals or exceeds the AC, the attack hits.
• Saving Throw: A saving throw is a character’s attempt to resist a negative effect, such as a spell, a trap, or a dangerous environmental hazard. It involves rolling a d20 and adding the relevant ability modifier, and, crucially, a proficiency bonus if the character is proficient in that particular type of saving throw (Strength, Dexterity, Constitution, Intelligence, Wisdom, or Charisma). The result is compared to the Difficulty Class (DC) set by the effect causing the saving throw. If the saving throw equals or exceeds the DC, the character succeeds in resisting the effect.

The Sage Advice Compendium and Official Rulings

The Sage Advice Compendium, an official resource published by Wizards of the Coast, directly addresses this question, confirming that saving throws are not ability checks. This clarification underscores the importance of adhering to the intended design of the game, preventing potential rules misinterpretations and unintended consequences.

Why the Distinction Matters

The separation between ability checks and saving throws is more than just semantic. It affects several gameplay aspects:

• Proficiency Bonuses: Ability checks receive a proficiency bonus only if the character is proficient in the skill associated with the ability (e.g., Stealth for a Dexterity check). Saving throws, however, receive a proficiency bonus based on the character’s class and specific saving throw types (e.g., a Fighter is proficient in Strength and Constitution saving throws).
• Feats and Class Features: Many feats and class features specifically target either ability checks or saving throws. If saving throws were considered ability checks, these abilities could be exploited in unintended ways, disrupting game balance.
• Spells and Effects: Certain spells and effects specifically influence ability checks or saving throws. For example, a spell might grant advantage on Strength checks but have no effect on Strength saving throws. Understanding the distinction prevents misapplication of these abilities.

Debunking Common Misconceptions

It’s easy to see why some players might confuse saving throws with ability checks. Both involve rolling a d20 and adding an ability modifier. However, the context and purpose are fundamentally different. Ability checks are proactive attempts to achieve a goal, while saving throws are reactive attempts to avoid harm.

The Role of Games Learning Society

For deeper insights into game mechanics and design principles, resources like the Games Learning Society are invaluable. Learning about the theoretical underpinnings of game design can improve your understanding and appreciation of the 5e rules system. You can find more information about them at GamesLearningSociety.org.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are some frequently asked questions about the relationship between saving throws and checks in D&D 5e, designed to provide further clarity:

1. Are attack rolls and saving throws basically specialized ability checks?

No, they are not. The Sage Advice Compendium explicitly states that attack rolls and saving throws are distinct from ability checks. Each uses a d20 roll but serves a different purpose.

2. Is a saving throw considered a check of any kind?

While a saving throw involves making a roll to overcome a DC, it is a saving throw first and foremost. It is not considered an ability check.

3. Is a Dexterity check the same as a saving throw?

No. A Dexterity skill check is an attempt to perform tasks using dexterity, potentially with a proficiency bonus. A Dexterity saving throw is an attempt to avoid a negative effect, and the proficiency bonus depends on your class features.

4. Is a check a save in 5e?

No, they are different. Saving throws are mechanically distinct, making it easier to refer to ability checks without accidentally including saving throws against spells or traps.

5. What’s the main difference between a check and a save in D&D?

An ability check is proactive – you initiate the action. A saving throw is reactive – you are responding to an external threat.

6. What counts as an ability check in D&D?

An ability check tests your character’s innate talent and training to overcome a challenge. The DM calls for one when the outcome is uncertain.

7. Do saving throws count as attacks?

No, saving throws are not attacks. The three main types of d20 roll are ability checks, attack rolls, and saving throws, and they are mutually exclusive unless a specific ability states otherwise.

8. How do saving throws work in D&D?

You roll a d20, add the relevant ability modifier, and add your proficiency bonus (if applicable). If the result equals or exceeds the DC, you succeed on the saving throw.

9. Is a saving throw an action in combat?

No, it’s not an action. It happens outside of your turn in direct response to an external trigger.

10. What is the difference between an ability check and a skill check?

A skill check is a specific type of ability check where you have proficiency in the skill being used (e.g., Stealth is a skill linked to Dexterity). You add your proficiency bonus to skill checks.

11. Can saving throws have advantage or disadvantage?

Yes, certain spells, abilities, and environmental conditions can grant advantage or disadvantage on saving throws.

12. What happens if you roll a 1 on a saving throw?

In most cases, rolling a 1 on a saving throw results in an automatic failure, regardless of your modifiers.

13. Can Uncanny Dodge be used against an effect that forces a saving throw?

No. Uncanny Dodge specifically requires an attack roll against you. If you’re making a saving throw, Uncanny Dodge is not applicable.

14. What is the most common ability check in D&D?

Wisdom (Perception) is arguably the most common, used for spotting hidden objects, traps, and creatures.

15. Do ability checks include saving throws in 5e?

Again, explicitly no. The Sage Advice Compendium firmly establishes their distinction.

In conclusion, while saving throws and ability checks share the common element of a d20 roll, they serve distinct functions within the D&D 5e ruleset. Understanding this difference is paramount for both players and DMs, ensuring fair and consistent gameplay. Keep exploring, keep learning, and keep adventuring!