Game
Explaining Task Resolution
Ever wondered how games decide if your action succeeds? Discover task resolution, the core mechanic that turns player intent into in-game outcomes.
What is it?
Task resolution is a fundamental game mechanic used to determine the outcome of an action when success is not guaranteed. It's the system that answers the question, “Did I do it?” Whether you're trying to pick a lock in a video game or persuade a king in a tabletop RPG, task resolution is at play. The most common methods involve randomness, like rolling dice (e.g., the d20 system in Dungeons & Dragons) or drawing cards. The result is often modified by a character's skills and compared against a target number or an opponent's stats to declare a success, failure, or partial success.
Why is it trending?
While a timeless concept, innovation in task resolution is constantly trending, especially within the indie tabletop RPG scene. Designers are moving beyond simple pass/fail binaries to create more nuanced, narrative-driven outcomes. Systems like "Powered by the Apocalypse" (PbtA) use a model of success, success with a cost, or failure that keeps the story moving regardless of the roll. This focus on creating interesting story beats rather than just resolving an action has revitalized interest in how games handle player choice and consequence, influencing both tabletop and digital design.
How does it affect people?
Task resolution directly shapes the player experience by introducing tension, risk, and excitement. A well-designed system makes players feel that their character's abilities and choices matter, making success feel earned and failure meaningful. It is the engine of drama in a game; the moment a player holds their breath waiting for a dice roll is pure task resolution. Conversely, a poorly implemented system can feel unfair or arbitrary, leading to frustration. Ultimately, it governs the flow of the narrative and is a key factor in how immersive and engaging a game feels.