What are hit dice? (hd)

[nathan_123456]

I am really confused when the term Hit Dice appears in the Third edition manual. I just started reading it, and also, what are saves?

[teaman]

I am really confused when the term Hit Dice appears in the Third edition manual. I just started reading it, and also, what are saves?

Hit dice are the number of dice one rolls for hit points. So if you want to create a 3rd Level Fighter, you'll roll 3 eight sided dice and add them together (3d8). If there are constitution bonuses, you add those each level too (up to level 9. but worry about that later). A third level cleric would roll3 six-sided dice, and so on. You don't use them to regain hit points in this edition/version.

Saving throws are a way to avoid the effects of certain spells and attacks. So if a dragon breathes on you, you attempt a saving throw versus Dragon Breath. You roll a d20 and hope for a high number. If you succeed, you only take half damage. Similarly, the other saving throws might let you avoid some of the damage or even all of the effects of a spell or poison.

Hope this helps.