Daggerheart Hope & Fear Dice Set: How It Works

By Critical Role Store | Published: 2026-10-26

Category: Product Reviews

Learn how to use the Daggerheart Hope & Fear dice set, including the unique mechanics of Hope and Fear dice in your RPG sessions.

Quick Answer

The Daggerheart Hope & Fear dice set uses a unique two-dice mechanic where you roll a Hope die and a Fear die together, with the result determining narrative success and complications.

Why Hope and Fear Dice Matter

Unlike standard RPG dice sets that only measure success or failure, Daggerheart's Hope and Fear dice add a layer of narrative tension. The Hope die (usually a d12) determines how well you succeed, while the Fear die (also a d12) introduces potential complications or setbacks. This dual-dice system encourages players to embrace both triumph and trouble in their stories.

What's in the Assassin Dice Set

The Daggerheart: Hope & Fear Assassin Dice Set includes 9 dice: one Hope die, one Fear die, and seven standard polyhedral dice (d4, d6, d8, d10, d12, d20, and a percentile d10). The Hope and Fear dice are visually distinct—often with different colors or markings—so you can quickly identify them during play. Note that this set is shipped by Botch Dice and is only available to US addresses.

How to Use the Hope & Fear Dice Set

Identify the Hope and Fear dice: Look for the two special dice in your set—they are typically marked with a heart (Hope) and a skull or shadow (Fear). Separate them from the standard dice before your session. Common mistake: mixing up the Hope and Fear dice. Check the symbols before rolling.
Roll both dice together for key actions: When your character attempts a significant action (like attacking or persuading), roll the Hope die and the Fear die simultaneously. The Hope die result indicates your degree of success, while the Fear die result shows potential complications. Don't roll them separately—always roll together to keep the narrative tension balanced.
Interpret the results: Compare the two numbers. If the Hope die is higher, you succeed with minimal trouble. If the Fear die is higher, you succeed but face a setback. If they tie, the outcome is neutral, and the GM can decide the narrative twist. Remember: a higher Fear die doesn't mean failure—it means success with a cost.
Use standard dice for other rolls: For damage, skill checks, or other standard RPG rolls, use the seven polyhedral dice included in the set. The Hope and Fear dice are only for narrative moments. Common mistake: using Hope/Fear dice for every roll. Reserve them for actions that drive the story forward.

Product Details

Daggerheart: Hope & Fear Dice Set - Assassin: This officially licensed 9-die RPG set is inspired by the Assassin class and includes a Hope die and a Fear die alongside standard polyhedral dice. You get a complete set tailored for Daggerheart's unique mechanics, so you don't need to buy extra dice to play with the Hope/Fear system.
Daggerheart: Hope & Fear Dice Set - Assassin