The System
What is Daggerheart?
Daggerheart is a high-fantasy tabletop roleplaying game by Darrington Press designed for cinematic, story-first play. Instead of a single die, every roll involves two opposing dice (Hope and Fear) that determine not just success or failure, but the emotional shape of each moment.
Hope vs Fear
When you roll, the Hope die and Fear die land simultaneously. A high Hope result means success with narrative momentum on your side. A high Fear result means the GM gains a tool to complicate the story, even if you succeed. This push and pull is the heartbeat of every scene at the table.
Why we play Daggerheart
We chose Daggerheart because its mechanics reward the kind of story we want to tell: character-first, consequence-heavy, and built for ensemble play. The Hope/Fear tension never lets the table get comfortable. That's exactly where good stories live.
Common questions
Do I need to know the rules to enjoy the show?
No. The show is edited for listeners with no knowledge of the system. The mechanics inform the story, but you never need a rulebook to follow along.
Where can I learn more about Daggerheart?
Daggerheart is published by Darrington Press, the publishing arm of Critical Role. The core rulebook and free materials are available on their website.
Is Daggerheart different from D&D?
Yes. Daggerheart replaces the standard d20 single-roll system with two opposing d12's called Hope and Fear or duality dice. It's designed for story-forward, cinematic play with more narrative control for players and GM alike.