Tabletop RPG players are known for their love of dice. From metal dice that clatter ominously across the table to sharp-edged resin sets that look like arcane relics, dice are more than just tools—they’re a core part of the magic of the game. And with that love comes superstition.
Every D&D group has at least one player who refuses to let anyone else touch their dice, who "charges" their d20s under the full moon, or who believes certain dice are cursed. If you’re a dice goblin (or dragon) yourself, you might already have your own rituals. Let’s take a look at some of the most common lucky rolling habits in the D&D community and whether they’re just fun traditions—or if there might actually be some logic behind them.
1. The “Dice Jail” Punishment System ⛓️
Ever had a d20 betray you with back-to-back natural ones? Many players believe that bad rolls are contagious, and a misbehaving die needs to be removed from play. Enter dice jail, a designated spot (often a separate dice bag, box, or even a tiny literal "jail" prop) where failed dice are put on timeout.
💡 Does it work? Not really—each roll is random, after all—but it sure feels cathartic to exile an untrustworthy die.
2. The “Warm-Up Rolls” Ritual 🎲🔥
Before an important roll, some players insist on “warming up” their dice by rolling them multiple times in a row until they get a good result. The idea? This “trains” the die to roll high when it matters.
💡 Does it work? Statistically, no—dice don’t have memory. But it can help build confidence and reduce anxiety, which might help you roleplay your character more boldly.
3. The Power of the “Dice Hoard” 🏆
Many players swear by having different dice for different purposes. Some dice are only used for attack rolls, others for saving throws, and some dice sets are reserved for rolling important skill checks. This allows players to switch to a "lucky" die when things get serious.
💡 Does it work? Logically, no. But having a variety of dice means you can switch things up if you feel like a set is “off”, which can keep the game exciting.
4. The “Personal Dice Only” Rule 🚫🙅♂️
Some players believe that letting someone else touch their dice steals their luck—especially if that person is known for rolling poorly. The logic is that dice attune to their owner, and outside energy interferes with that.
💡 Does it work? Again, dice are inanimate objects, but this superstition might come from a sense of personal attachment. Many players form emotional bonds with their dice, making them feel like a part of their character’s journey.
5. Charging Your Dice for Maximum Luck ⚡🌕
Want to boost your rolls? Some players “charge” their dice in special ways:
- Leaving them with the highest number facing up overnight.
- Exposing them to the full moon or other mystical forces.
- Placing them in a special dice altar or container when not in use.
💡 Does it work? No scientific proof, but believing in your dice could boost your confidence, which might make you roleplay more boldly!
6. Sacrificing a Bad Die for Good Luck 🔥🎲
For the most extreme dice superstitions, some players take drastic measures. If a die rolls especially badly too many times, the only solution is to destroy it in a dramatic ritual—melting it, smashing it, or sending it into exile, never to be used again.
💡 Does it work? Probably not, but it can make for an entertaining moment at the table. Plus, giving your dice an epic backstory makes the game more immersive!
Final Thoughts: Do Dice Superstitions Matter?
While all of these superstitions are based on personal belief rather than science, they add to the fun and community of tabletop gaming. Rituals, habits, and dice lore are a big part of what makes RPGs special.
So whether you warm up your dice, charge them under a full moon, or refuse to let your DM touch your d20, just remember: your luck is what you make of it!
Do you have any personal dice superstitions? Share them in the comments! 🔮🎲
