Why Do People Say “Nat 20”? Unpacking the Magic of the Natural Twenty
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The phrase “Nat 20” is a cornerstone of tabletop role-playing games (TTRPGs), particularly those that use a 20-sided die (d20), like Dungeons & Dragons (D&D) and Pathfinder. But why do players utter this phrase with such excitement and significance? The answer lies in the mechanics and narrative impact associated with rolling a natural 20 on a d20.
In simple terms, a Nat 20 refers to the result of a d20 landing with the face showing 20. It’s not simply having a final result of 20 after adding modifiers; it is specifically when the die itself displays a 20. This seemingly small difference carries enormous weight in many TTRPG systems because it often triggers special effects and outcomes, usually positive, that a mere modified total of 20 wouldn’t achieve.
The core reason behind using the term “Nat 20” is to differentiate it from a result of 20 obtained through adding modifiers to a lower die roll. This is often called a “dirty 20“, a “modified 20“, or an “unnatural 20“. The term is vital because Nat 20s and dirty 20s are treated differently within the game’s rules.
Specifically, a Nat 20 is often an automatic success in attacks, often accompanied by an enhanced effect, like a critical hit, which can double the damage dealt. In contrast, a dirty 20 is a successful roll, but it typically only achieves the base result of a successful check or attack, without extra bonuses associated with the die actually showing the number 20. This distinction is why players are always thrilled to proclaim a “Nat 20” – they aren’t just celebrating success, but a special success with enhanced benefits. It’s more than just a successful attack; it is a critical moment of potential narrative and in-game impact.
The Significance of the Nat 20
The Nat 20 is more than just a number; it’s a moment of drama and excitement. The thrill of rolling a natural 20 creates a tangible emotional peak in a game. The sense of suspense as the die clatters across the table, the collective holding of breath, and the cheer when the 20 finally appears contribute significantly to the experience. It adds unpredictability, excitement and the possibility of truly amazing feats of heroics.
Furthermore, the Nat 20 serves as a narrative driver. It can signal a turning point in a story, create a memorable moment, or enable players to accomplish seemingly impossible tasks. It often provides an opportunity for the Game Master (GM) to describe dramatic and impressive results, further enhancing the feeling of accomplishment. It’s not just about the mechanical bonus, but also about the dramatic and narrative possibilities that the result unlocks within the game.
In summary, the reason players and GMs use the term “Nat 20” so frequently is rooted in its specific mechanical implications, and its ability to create narrative and dramatic peaks, that differentiates it from a modified final roll of 20. It’s the embodiment of the thrill of chance and the potential for extraordinary success in a game filled with possibilities and uncertainties.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Nat 20
What does a Nat 20 do in combat?
In combat, a Nat 20 on an attack roll is typically an automatic hit regardless of the target’s Armor Class (AC). It also often results in a critical hit, meaning you roll double the damage dice, turning a potentially standard attack into a devastating blow.
What is a “Dirty 20”?
A dirty 20 is when the final result of a d20 roll is 20 after applying all modifiers, but the number that is displayed on the die is not a 20. For instance, if you roll an 18 and have a +2 modifier, the resulting 20 is a dirty 20. It’s a successful roll but doesn’t come with the additional benefits of a Nat 20.
Does a Nat 20 always hit?
In most systems like 5th edition D&D, a Nat 20 on an attack roll always hits, regardless of the target’s AC or any other defensive abilities. However, note that this only applies to attack rolls, and not to other types of checks.
Can a Nat 20 fail on a skill check?
While a Nat 20 usually represents success, on a skill or ability check it does not guarantee automatic success. If the Difficulty Class (DC) of a check is greater than 20, the character will still not succeed, even on a Nat 20. A Nat 20 on a skill check typically just means the result is 20 and does not get the added effects that an attack would receive.
What is the opposite of a Nat 20?
The opposite of a Nat 20 is a Nat 1. A natural 1 is when a d20 lands on the face showing 1. In attack rolls a Nat 1 is usually an automatic miss, and in some cases can result in negative consequences for the player character.
Does a Nat 20 beat everything?
Not necessarily. While it guarantees an attack hit, it does not automatically overcome every challenge in the game. Nat 20s on skill checks only give the player a result of 20 before any modifiers are taken into account. It can also be affected by in game abilities.
Can a Nat 20 be stopped by adamantine armor?
Adamantine armor does not prevent the hit from a Nat 20 on an attack roll. It does, however, usually negates the critical hit from the roll. So the attacker would hit, but not deal extra damage. It negates the special effect, not the hit.
What happens on a Nat 20 death saving throw?
If you roll a Nat 20 on a death saving throw, you immediately regain 1 hit point and regain consciousness. This means you are no longer dying. This represents a miraculous recovery against all odds.
Is a Nat 1 an auto-fail on everything?
A Nat 1 is usually an automatic failure on attack rolls and saving throws, regardless of modifiers. However on skill checks a Nat 1 will simply mean you get a base roll of 1, and not necessarily an automatic failure. The rule depends on the specific type of roll you are making.
Can you “crit fail” a skill check?
Generally, per the rules of most TTRPGs, you cannot “crit fail” a skill check. A Nat 1 on a skill check simply means a total of 1 before modifiers, not an automatic negative consequence. The difference between skill checks and attack rolls is usually what defines if a critical fail can occur.
What are the effects of a Nat 20 on a saving throw?
A Nat 20 on a saving throw is usually an automatic success. In certain TTRPG systems, this might mean a bonus effect, but it most often only means the saving throw was a success.
Does a Nat 20 always bypass AC?
Yes, in attack rolls a Nat 20 bypasses AC completely. The attack hits, regardless of the target’s defense. This is one of the most powerful effects of a Nat 20. This means a low level character can, by chance, land a blow on a high level enemy.
What is it called when you roll a 1 in D&D?
Rolling a 1 on a d20 in D&D is called a critical fail or a “fumble“, especially on attack rolls. It usually means the attack misses and sometimes can bring additional negative consequences.
Can a Nat 20 result in damage increase?
Yes, when you score a Nat 20 in combat on an attack roll, it usually results in a critical hit, which doubles the damage dice. This is a significant boost to damage output.
Is mithril stronger than adamantine?
While both are fictional materials used in fantasy settings, mithril is often depicted as lighter and more versatile than adamantine. Adamantine is typically seen as a very hard metal that can negate the effects of critical hits, while mithril is considered to have both a strong and light nature. They are both legendary materials with different properties and effects.