How to Hide Dice Rolls in Roll20: A Comprehensive Guide
Hiding dice rolls in Roll20, a popular virtual tabletop platform, is a crucial technique for game masters (GMs) aiming to maintain suspense, mystery, and control over the narrative. There are several ways to accomplish this, catering to different preferences and desired levels of secrecy. The most direct method involves using the whisper functionality, which allows you to send rolls and other messages only to yourself, the GM, or specific players.
To directly hide your dice rolls from your players in Roll20, you will use the /gmroll command. This command specifically whispers the result of the roll directly to the GM and it does not make the results viewable by other players. Alternatively you can use the /w gm command followed by a standard roll command to get the same effect.
Let’s explore this, and other key elements of managing visible and hidden rolls in Roll20, including related FAQs to help you master this technique.
Methods for Hiding Dice Rolls
Using the /gmroll Command
This is the most straightforward way to hide dice rolls. The syntax is simple: /gmroll (dice formula). For example, to roll a d20 with a +5 modifier, you’d type /gmroll 1d20+5. This roll result is only visible to the GM (or yourself, if you’re running the game). This command is invaluable for behind-the-scenes checks, monster rolls, or any situation where you don’t want players to see the exact numbers. It is important to note the GM will be able to see these rolls in the chat log of the game.
Whispering Rolls Directly to the GM
You can also achieve a hidden roll by whispering to yourself. To use this method, type /w gm (dice formula). Example: /w gm 1d20+3. This command is equivalent to the /gmroll command and will deliver the roll privately to the GM’s chat window.
Adjusting Default Whisper Settings
While the above methods work for individual rolls, you can adjust the default whisper settings in your game to automate the process of hiding rolls. This will prevent the game from announcing the roll to the whole table. By modifying the default whisper settings, you can make it so that player rolls are automatically whispered to the GM.
To change this you will follow this pathway:
- Go to the Campaign Settings Page.
- Choose “Always Whisper Rolls” under “WHISPER ROLLS TO GM” in the Default Sheet Settings.
- Save.
- Load your game.
- Go to the settings tab on the right.
- Scroll to the bottom where you will find a button that says Apply Default Settings.
- Choose to update the Whisper settings.
These settings change what the default is when a player rolls. It will now send these rolls directly to the GM.
Using API Scripts (Pro Subscribers)
If you’re a Roll20 Pro subscriber, you can leverage API scripts to further customize roll visibility. One popular method involves using a script like Powercards, which allows you to create roll templates and conceal the source of a roll. By setting up specific templates, you can ensure that all monster rolls (for instance) are only visible to the GM, even when triggered by macros.
These are the main methods to hide dice rolls in Roll20, each providing a different approach to maintaining game secrecy and control.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Roll20 Dice Rolls
1. What is the basic dice rolling command in Roll20?
The fundamental command for rolling dice is /roll (dice formula). For example, /roll 1d20+5 rolls a 20-sided die and adds 5 to the result. You can use any standard dice notation, including multiple dice (e.g., /roll 2d6+3) or exploding dice (e.g., /roll 1d6!).
2. Why does Roll20 sometimes roll two dice?
Roll20 often displays two dice results when advantage or disadvantage is in play. This is usually set within your character sheet settings, especially if you’re using a pre-built sheet like the OGL sheet. If you do not want this setting to be in effect, you can click the gear icon on your character sheet and modify your settings there.
3. Can players cheat by fudging dice rolls on Roll20?
Technically, yes, players can alter dice rolls on Roll20 if they want. The main ways players can cheat are to cover the dice while they adjust them, or if using an API they can set that to hide their rolls. However, it does take away from the game. The GM can also use APIs to alter how the rolls are displayed for the players.
4. How do I reveal hidden rolls to players in Roll20?
If you’ve used /gmroll or /w gm to hide a roll, the result is visible only to you (the GM) unless you choose to make it public. You can copy the result from your chat log and paste it into the regular chat, or you can use other commands to show the results. If you want it to be in a different text color or be highlighted in a different way, you can use commands like /em or !show within the chat.
5. How can I make a d20 float in real life?
To make a physical d20 float, you can dissolve salt in water until the density is high enough. Add salt slowly, stirring between additions, until the die floats. This takes a lot of salt. Once the die is floating, carefully transfer it to a jar or vial.
6. Is Roll20 a secure platform?
Yes, Roll20 utilizes 256-bit SSL encryption to secure user data and privacy. This ensures your game and personal information are protected. This is one of the best security measures you can take to secure data on the internet.
7. Is Roll20 appropriate for children?
Roll20 can be used with children. There is no age requirement on Roll20. It would depend on the game the child was playing as to how appropriate the content is for the particular child. For instance, the Hoard of the Dragon Queen adventure is a good option, being a more basic and longer game.
8. Are dice rolls on Roll20 truly random?
While Roll20 strives for randomness, its dice rolling system is not truly random in a mathematical sense. The platform uses quantum fluctuations to create random numbers. This is one of the most effective ways to achieve random numbers.
9. What is the least likely number to roll on two six-sided dice?
Both 2 and 12 are the least likely numbers to roll with two standard six-sided dice. Each result can only be made by one combination of the dice (1+1 and 6+6 respectively).
10. What is it called when you roll two sixes in dice games?
Rolling two sixes on standard dice is often called “Boxcars“. Alternatively, two ones are known as snake eyes.
11. Is rolling two dice fair and random?
If the two dice are fair and independent, then all outcomes are equally likely. This assumes that both of the dice have the same probability of turning up each number.
12. How can you alter a physical dice roll?
A basic way to alter dice is to knock over a die that is a bad result when the dice come to a stop. You can also adjust dice under your hand to make the roll what you want it to be.
13. What is a “death roll” in dice games?
A “death roll” is a back and forth roll until a zero is rolled. The death roll is a popular game involving rolling dice where players alternate rolling until one gets a 0. The first person to roll a zero, loses.
14. Why does Roll20 sometimes have a “dark” mode appearance?
Roll20’s default is Dark Mode. This feature is included to make the interface user-friendly and can be easily toggled off and on in settings.
15. Is Roll20 worth the cost for paid subscriptions?
For those looking to take full advantage of customization, tools, and advanced features, the Roll20 paid subscriptions are indeed worth it. The Mentor package is often recommended as a well-balanced option that provides access to many API scripts and features. This cost can provide a great gaming experience.
By utilizing these methods and keeping these FAQs in mind, you can effectively manage dice roll visibility in your Roll20 games, enhancing the mystery and excitement for both players and the GM.