Master Savage Worlds SWADE Hardness Table: Definitive Guide

Savage Worlds SWADE Hardness Table

The Hardness Table in Savage Worlds Adventure Edition (SWADE) is a key tool for players and Game Masters (GMs). It helps determine how tough objects are during gameplay. This guide will explain how to use the Hardness Table, its components, and how it fits into SWADE mechanics.

Understanding the Hardness Table

The Hardness Table is a vital tool in Savage Worlds Adventure Edition (SWADE) that determines the difficulty of damaging objects and creatures. It provides a standardized system for measuring the resistance of various targets to different types of attacks.

Components of the Hardness Table

The Hardness Table is organized into rows and columns. Each row represents a different type of material, while each column corresponds to a specific damage type. The intersection of a row and column reveals the hardness rating of that material against that damage type.

Key terms:

  • Hardness: A numerical value that indicates how resistant a target is to damage.
  • Armor: A protective covering that reduces incoming damage.
  • Toughness: A creature’s innate ability to resist injury.

Application in Gameplay

To use the Hardness Table during combat, follow these steps:

  1. Determine the target’s hardness: Identify the material the target is made of and find the corresponding row on the Hardness Table.
  2. Identify the damage type: Determine the type of damage the attack inflicts (e.g., bashing, piercing, slashing).
  3. Find the hardness rating: Locate the intersection of the target’s material row and the damage type column. The value at this intersection is the target’s hardness.
  4. Compare hardness to damage: If the incoming damage is equal to or greater than the target’s hardness, the target takes damage. If the incoming damage is less than the target’s hardness, the target is not damaged.

Common Materials and Their Hardness Ratings

Here are some common materials found in SWADE and their hardness ratings:

  • Wood: 5
  • Stone: 8
  • Metal: 10
  • Leather: 3
  • Cloth: 2

Advanced Strategies

  • Exploit weaknesses: Identify targets with low hardness against specific damage types and use attacks that exploit those weaknesses.
  • Combine hardness with other mechanics: Use abilities, spells, or items that can affect hardness or damage to create strategic advantages.
  • Consider environmental factors: Terrain, weather, and other environmental conditions can influence hardness and damage.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. Can I reduce a target’s hardness?

Yes, some abilities, spells, and items can reduce a target’s hardness.

Q2. What happens if a target’s hardness is reduced below 0?

The target is considered destroyed or incapacitated.

Q3. How do I calculate damage against a target with armor?

Subtract the target’s armor from the incoming damage before comparing it to the target’s hardness.

Resources and Further Reading

  • Savage Worlds Adventure Edition Core Rulebook
  • Savage Worlds Online Forums
  • SWADE Community Blogs

By mastering the Hardness Table, you can make informed decisions during combat and develop effective strategies to overcome challenges in your SWADE adventures.

Conclusion

Mastering the Hardness Table in SWADE is essential for realistic and strategic gameplay. By understanding and using this tool, players and GMs can enhance their gaming experience. Practice using the table in different scenarios to become more skilled and creative in your gameplay.