dungeons and dragons online rules

Dungeons & Dragons Online (DDO) is a massively multiplayer online role-playing game (MMORPG) based on the Dungeons & Dragons tabletop RPG, primarily drawing from the 3.5 Edition rules with some adaptations for online play. Below are the key rules and mechanics of the game: Character Creation Races: Humans, Elves, Dwarves, Halflings, Warforged, Drow, Half-Elves, Half-Orcs, Gnomes, Aasimar, Tieflings, and more (some require unlocking). Classes: Fighter, Wizard, Rogue, Cleric, Barbarian, Paladin, Ranger, Sorcerer, Bard, Monk, Favored Soul, Artificer, Warlock, Druid, Alchemist, etc. Alignment: Affects certain quests and gear restrictions (e.g., Paladins must be Lawful Good). Stats: Strength, Dexterity, Constitution, Intelligence, Wisdom, Charisma (based on 3.5e rules). Skills: Hide, Move Silently, Jump, Spellcraft, UMD (Use Magic Device), etc. Combat System Real-Time Action: Unlike turn-based tabletop D&D, combat happens in real-time. Attack Rolls & Damage: Based on 3.5e rules (d20 + modifiers vs. Armor Class). Spells: Use a mana-like system (SP: Spell Points) instead of Vancian casting. Critical Hits: Confirmed by a second attack roll (similar to 3.5e). Saving Throws: Fortitude, Reflex, Will (rolled automatically when targeted). Progression & Leveling Level Cap: Currently 32 (with expansions). Experience Points (XP): Earned from quests, monsters, and exploration. Feats: Gained at certain levels (similar to 3.5e). Enhancements: A talent-tree system for class customization (unique to DDO). Destinies: Epic Destiny system for high-level characters (post-level 20). Dungeon Mechanics Traps & Puzzles: Rogues can disarm traps; some puzzles require player interaction. Secret Doors: Found via Search skill (like in PnP D&D). Rest Shrines: Replace traditional restingrestore HP/SP but limited per dungeon. Permadeath (Optional): "Hardcore" servers feature permanent death. Multiplayer & Group Play Party Size: Up to 6 players (12 in raids). Roles: Tank, Healer, DPS, Crowd Control (similar to other MMOs). LFM (Looking for More): Players can form groups via the interface. Guilds: Player-run groups with airships (guild housing). Loot & Economy Random Loot: Items have random properties (like Diablo-style loot). Named Items: Unique gear from specific quests/raids. Auction House: Players can trade via the DDO Store or in-game brokers. Crafting: Cannith Crafting allows item customization. Free-to-Play vs. Premium Free Content: Base game + some expansions (with restrictions). Premium Content: Unlocked via purchases (e.g., expansions, races, classes). DDO Store: Buy cosmetic items, XP boosts, and convenience features. Differences from Tabletop D&D No Turn-Based Combat: Real-time action instead of initiative order. No Dungeon Master (DM): Quests are pre-scripted. Simplified Rules: Some mechanics (e.g., grappling) are absent or streamlined. Action-Oriented: More focus on combat than roleplay. Expansions & Updates Major expansions include: - Menace of the Underdark (introduces Epic Destinies). - Shadowfell Conspiracy (adds Druid class). - Ravenloft (Barovia setting). - Fables of the Feywild (Feywild content). Would you like details on a specific aspect (e.g., builds, raids, or class mechanics)?