How to Run Persuasion Ability Checks

Persuasion is the Ability Check to roll to convince a Non-Player Character (NPC) to do something. Persuasion checks are most frequently rolled using CHARISMA and the Charisma-based Persuasion skill. Depending on the circumstance, characters can make an argument to use STRENGTH for physical Persuasion or even Intelligence for unassailable logic. It’s up to you as the Game Master. Remember that Persuasion isn’t mind control. Just because a player has made a successful roll, it does not mean that an NPC will automatically do everything the player says. Here are some guidelines:

Most Persuasion checks are Opposed Ability Checks where the NPC and a player both roll an Ability Check, with the higher score winning. A successful roll makes an NPC more likely to see a player’s point of view. 

• A city guard may “Look the other way just this once” but not abandon their post.

• A shopkeeper may offer up a one-time discount but not give anything away for free.

• A grumpy bartender might share a bit of gossip but not any names.