1D6 Score Probabilities
5 March 2020 | 8th Edition
Knowing the probability of throwing a certain dice score can often be the difference between success or failure in gaming terms — or dictate whether you include a certain weapon or wargear item in your list.
The 1D6 throw is the most basic throw in Warhammer 40K. The chart shown below illustrates the probability of dice scores from 1 dice. The red figure under each red bar represent the 1D6 dice score; the figures above each bar show the possible combinations for each dice score; the figures along the bottom of the chart are the mathematical probabilities of achieving each score.
So what is the point of showing the results chart from a single D6? Well it might seem an obvious thing to say, but any given number shows up only once, and each number has exactly the same chance of making an appearance on any one D6 throw, 16.666% or 1/6. This is calculated by dividing 1 (the total number of times a given number can result), by 6 (the total number of throw combinations possible with a single D6).
Also note that the average throw on a D6 is 3.5, not 3 as most believe!
Table of Probabilities for Rolling 1D6 (as a %)
By knowing the likelihood of a particular dice result you can start to plan ahead.
If you need to calculate the probability of throwing a particular score or a greater or lesser one, simply consult the chart below and cross reference the score required by the outcome required.
| Dice Score | Result exactly | Result or less | Result or more |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 16.66 | 16.66 | 100 |
| 2 | 16.66 | 33.33 | 83.33 |
| 3 | 16.66 | 50.00 | 66.66 |
| 4 | 16.66 | 66.66 | 50.00 |
| 5 | 16.66 | 83.33 | 33.33 |
| 6 | 16.66 | 100 | 16.66 |
Example 1
Let's say your Terminator sergeant has to make his saving throw, a 2+. We can see that he has an 83.33% chance (5/6) of making it.
Example 2
Now a Scout sniper, needing 4+ save. He has a chancey 50% (3/6) of making his.
And that's it. I hope it proves some help to you in your 40K gaming.
