Embark on a captivating journey into the realm of auditory enchantment with Bardic Inspiration on Foundry VTT. As a gifted bard, the power of inspiration rests at your fingertips, a celestial melody that uplifts your allies and strengthens their resolve. Dive into the arcane mechanics of Foundry VTT and discover how to harness this ethereal force, transforming every encounter into an extraordinary symphony.
To unleash the transformative power of Bardic Inspiration, venture into the “Bard Spells” submenu in Foundry VTT. There, amidst an array of musical enchantments, you’ll find the beacon of inspiration, a spell that holds the key to elevating your comrades. With a mere whisper, you grant a boon to a chosen ally, imbuing them with an ephemeral aura that radiates courage, focus, and resilience.
The effects of Bardic Inspiration are multifaceted, a tapestry of benefits that weave together to enhance your party’s performance. Your allies’ attacks become more precise, their defenses more unwavering, and their skills more proficient. As the battle rages, their dice rolls shimmer with an otherworldly radiance, blessed by the divine harmonies that emanate from your instrument. Seize the power of Bardic Inspiration and orchestrate victories that will reverberate through the annals of legend.
Understanding Bardic Inspiration in D&D
Bardic Inspiration is a versatile and powerful ability that can enhance a party’s performance in battle. Bards, the charismatic masters of music and eloquence, can inspire their allies with magical melodies and words, granting them temporary bonuses to their rolls.
The Inspire d6 ability, available at level 1, allows the bard to bestow a d6 bonus to any ally within 30 feet. This bonus can apply to attack rolls, ability checks, or saving throws. However, the bard can only use Bardic Inspiration a limited number of times per long rest, usually equal to their Charisma modifier.
As the bard levels up, they gain access to more powerful forms of Bardic Inspiration, including Inspire d8, Inspire d10, and Enhance Ability. These enhancements increase the bonus granted and the number of allies that can benefit from the inspiration.
The key to using Bardic Inspiration effectively lies in timing and targeting. Bards should use their inspiration on key rolls to maximize its impact. For example, granting inspiration to a melee fighter before a critical attack can significantly increase their chances of hitting. Alternatively, inspiring a spellcaster before a concentration check can help them maintain a crucial spell.
Rules for Bardic Inspiration:
| Level | Bonus |
|---|---|
| 1 | d6 |
| 5 | d8 |
| 10 | d10 |
| 15 | Enhance Ability (any ability score) |
How to Enable Bardic Inspiration in Foundry VTT
To enable Bardic Inspiration in Foundry VTT, follow these steps:
- Install the “Bardic Inspiration” module from the Foundry VTT module directory.
- Activate the module by ticking the checkbox next to its name in the “Modules” tab of the Foundry VTT settings.
- Configure the module settings by clicking on the “Configure” button next to its name. This will open a settings window where you can customize the behavior of the module, such as the number of Bardic Inspiration dice that are available and the duration of the effect.
Detailed Explanation of Step 2
When you activate the “Bardic Inspiration” module, it will add a new “Bardic Inspiration” tab to the character sheet of any character that has the “Bard” class. This tab will display the character’s available Bardic Inspiration dice and allow you to manage the effect.
The following table provides a detailed explanation of the options available in the “Bardic Inspiration” tab:
| Option | Description |
|---|---|
| Available Dice | This number indicates how many Bardic Inspiration dice the character currently has available. |
| Duration | This number indicates the duration of the Bardic Inspiration effect in rounds. |
| Target | This field allows you to select the target of the Bardic Inspiration effect. |
| Button | Click this button to apply the Bardic Inspiration effect to the selected target. |
You can also use the “Bardic Inspiration” module to create custom Bardic Inspiration effects. To do this, click on the “Create Custom Effect” button in the “Bardic Inspiration” tab. This will open a dialog box where you can specify the name, description, and duration of the effect. You can also add custom effects to the effect, such as a bonus to attack rolls or saving throws.
Configuring Bardic Inspiration Settings
Foundry VTT provides a range of customization options for Bardic Inspiration, allowing users to tailor the feature to their specific needs.
Inspiration Die Type
Foundry VTT enables users to choose the type of die used for Bardic Inspiration, such as d6, d8, or d10. This setting can be configured in the “Bardic Inspiration” section of the “Features” tab within a character sheet. By default, the die type is set to d6.
Inspiration Duration
Users can specify the duration of Bardic Inspiration effects. The default duration is set to 10 minutes, but it can be adjusted to any desired value. This setting can be found in the “Bardic Inspiration” section of the “Features” tab within a character sheet.
Inspiration Tracking
Foundry VTT offers three modes for tracking Bardic Inspiration uses:
| Mode | Description |
|---|---|
| Per Rest | Bardic Inspiration uses are reset after each long or short rest. |
| Per Day | Bardic Inspiration uses are reset after each long rest. |
| No Reset | Bardic Inspiration does not reset on its own. |
The “Tracking Mode” option can be found in the “Bardic Inspiration” section of the “Features” tab within a character sheet.
Using Bardic Inspiration in Combat
Bardic Inspiration is a versatile tool that can be used in a variety of ways to support your party in combat. Here are a few of the most common uses:
Inspiring Your Allies
The most obvious use of Bardic Inspiration is to inspire your allies. When you cast the spell, you can choose one creature within 60 feet of you to receive a bonus to their next ability check, attack roll, or saving throw. This bonus can be very helpful in turning the tide of battle, especially if your ally is making a critical roll.
Empowering Your Enemies
Another way to use Bardic Inspiration is to empower your enemies. By giving a bonus to an enemy’s ability check, attack roll, or saving throw, you can make it more difficult for your party to defeat them. This can be a risky strategy, but it can also be very effective if you use it carefully.
Protecting Yourself
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You can also use Bardic Inspiration to protect yourself. By giving yourself a bonus to your AC or saving throws, you can make it more difficult for enemies to hit you or affect you with their spells. This can be a very useful way to stay alive in a fight.
| Bonus | Effect |
|---|---|
| +1d6 | +1 to ability check, attack roll, or saving throw |
| +2d6 | +2 to ability check, attack roll, or saving throw |
| +3d6 | +3 to ability check, attack roll, or saving throw |
The amount of the bonus you give depends on your level: 1d6 at 1st level, 2d6 at 5th level, and 3d6 at 10th level.
Customizing Bardic Inspiration Effects
To customize the effects of Bardic Inspiration, you can use the following steps:
- In the Modules tab, find the Bardic Inspiration module and click on the Configure button.
- In the Bardic Inspiration Configuration window, select the Custom Effects tab.
- Click on the Add Effect button to create a new effect.
- In the Effect Creation window, enter a name for the effect and select the type of effect you want to create.
- Configure the effect’s settings, such as the duration, target, and magnitude of the effect. You can also add custom effects using JavaScript code in the Effect Script field.
The Bardic Inspiration module also allows you to customize the appearance of the Bardic Inspiration icon. To do this, select the Customization tab in the Bardic Inspiration Configuration window. Here, you can change the icon’s color, shape, and size.
Using Inspiration Dice
Bardic Inspiration grants inspiration dice to allies, which can be used to add a bonus to ability checks, attack rolls, or saving throws. To use an inspiration die:
- Click on the character’s portrait or token.
- Select “Actions” from the drop-down menu.
- Click on “Bardic Inspiration” and choose the die size (d6, d8, d10, d12).
- Click on the target character’s portrait or token.
- The inspiration die will be added to the target character’s sheet.
- The target character can now use the inspiration die by clicking on it from their character sheet and selecting “Roll.” The result of the die roll will be added to the next ability check, attack roll, or saving throw made by the character.
Example: A bard casts Bardic Inspiration on an ally and grants them a d8 inspiration die. The ally can now use the d8 to add a bonus to their next attack roll. If they roll a 5 on the die, they will add a +5 bonus to their attack roll.
Tip: You can also use the Inspiration Dice macro to quickly roll inspiration dice for your allies. To use the macro, select the target character(s) and type “/roll inspiration” in the chat window.
| Die Size | Bonus |
|---|---|
| d6 | +1d6 |
| d8 | +1d8 |
| d10 | +1d10 |
| d12 | +1d12 |
Tracking Bardic Inspiration Usage
Keeping track of Bardic Inspiration usage can be important for managing your resources during combat. Here are some tips on how to do this in Foundry VTT:
1. Configure Inspiration Die
Start by setting up your Bardic Inspiration die under the “Configuration” tab in your Foundry game settings. Select the die size and the number of uses per long rest.
2. Use the Inspiration Tracker
The Inspiration Tracker module provides a visual representation of your Bardic Inspiration usage. Install the module and find the tracker under the “Macros” tab.
3. Adjust Usage with Macros
You can use macros to easily add or subtract uses from your Bardic Inspiration pool. Create a macro for each action and set the command as follows:
@{Inspiration.roll(-1)} for subtracting inspiration
@{Inspiration.roll(1)} for adding inspiration
4. Assign Inspiration to Players
To assign inspiration to players, right-click their token and select “Add Inspiration.” You can also drag the Inspiration icon from the sidebar onto their token.
5. Display Inspiration on Tokens
Display Bardic Inspiration on player tokens by configuring the “Token Tooltip” under the “Configuration” tab. Click “Edit Token Config” and select “Inspiration” from the dropdown menu.
6. Track Inspiration with Abilities
If you have the “Bardic Inspiration Reloaded” module installed, you can track inspiration uses as part of your Bardic Inspiration abilities. Configure the abilities to consume or refresh inspiration dice.
7. Utilize Inspiration Management Tools
Consider using the following tools to enhance your Bardic Inspiration tracking:
| Tool | Description |
|---|---|
| Bard Inspire Macro | Macro that can roll and assign inspiration to players. |
| Inspiration Counter | Module that displays a counter on the token of players with inspiration. |
| Bardic Inspiration Manager | Module that allows you to customize the appearance and functionality of Bardic Inspiration. |
Advanced Bardic Inspiration Applications
Beyond the basic use of Bardic Inspiration, there are several advanced applications that can enhance its effectiveness.
Inspiration Dice Pools
Combine multiple Bardic Inspiration uses on a single roll, creating a dice pool with enhanced bonuses. This can be useful for high-stakes skill checks or attacks.
Flanking
Give advantage to a melee attacker if they have any Bardic Inspiration. This can significantly increase their chance of hitting a target.
Covering Ground
Use Bardic Inspiration on a character with high movement speed to cover more ground and assist multiple allies in combat.
Healing and Support
Apply Bardic Inspiration to healing spells or abilities to increase their effectiveness. This can provide a significant boost to a party’s survivability.
Damage Mitigation
Use Bardic Inspiration to reduce incoming damage from critical hits or other high-impact attacks. Applying it to a spellcaster can protect their concentration.
Feinting
Give Bardic Inspiration to an ally making a Bluff check. This can increase their chance of convincing an NPC or avoiding a combat encounter.
Inspiration Counters
Use digital counters or Foundry VTT’s Token HUD system to track the number of Bardic Inspiration uses available. This helps avoid confusion and ensures accurate tracking.
Activating Bardic Inspiration
To use Bardic Inspiration, the bard must use their action to expend one of their Bardic Inspiration dice, granting the chosen ally a bonus to one ability check, saving throw, or attack roll.
Applying the Bonus
The bonus is applied when the ally makes the roll. The ally must declare that they are using Bardic Inspiration before they make the roll.
Duration
The bonus granted by Bardic Inspiration lasts until the ally has used it or until the start of the bard’s next turn.
Multiple Uses
A bard can use Bardic Inspiration on multiple allies during the same round. However, the bard can only use each die once per turn.
Special Uses
Some bard subclasses can use Bardic Inspiration in special ways, such as granting bonus damage or healing. These special uses are described in the subclass description.
Troubleshooting Common Issues with Bardic Inspiration
Ally Not Receiving the Bonus
Ensure that the Bardic Inspiration module is enabled for the VTT, that the bard is targeting the correct ally, and that the ally has not already used the bonus granted by the die.
Bonus Not Applying to the Correct Roll
Ensure that the ally has declared that they are using Bardic Inspiration before making the roll. The bonus is not retroactive and will not be applied if declared after the roll.
Bard Unable to Use Bardic Inspiration
Confirm that the bard has not already used all their Bardic Inspiration dice for the turn, that they have selected an ally within their range, and that the ally is not already under the effect of Bardic Inspiration from another source.
Activating Bardic Inspiration
To activate Bardic Inspiration, select the “Inspiration” icon in the “Active Effects” tab on the character sheet. This will display a list of potential targets within range. Choose the desired target to grant them the inspiration die.
Considerations for Target Selection
When choosing a target for Bardic Inspiration, consider the following factors:
- Class: Martial classes benefit more from inspiration due to their focus on ability rolls.
- Saving Throws: Inspiration can bolster saving throws, especially against key abilities like Wisdom or Charisma.
- Skill Checks: Expertise can increase the effectiveness of inspiration on checks with low roll bonuses.
Best Practices for Utilizing Bardic Inspiration
To maximize the impact of Bardic Inspiration, follow these best practices:
- Identify Crucial Rolls: Reserve inspiration for rolls that have a significant impact on the party’s success or failure.
- Prioritize Important Characters: Grant inspiration to characters who can make the most of it, such as the party’s main damage dealer or healer.
- Timing is Everything: Time the activation of inspiration to maximize its benefit, such as just before a key attack or saving throw.
- Communicate with Allies: Let your allies know when you grant them inspiration to allow them to make informed decisions.
- Don’t Hoard Inspiration: Use Bardic Inspiration liberally to support your party members throughout the adventure.
- Inspiration Table: Create a physical or digital table with possible inspiration recipients to facilitate quick decision-making.
- Encourage Player Feedback: Ask your players for input on how they would like to use Bardic Inspiration to enhance their characters.
- Use Macros: Utilize Foundry macros to streamline the activation of Bardic Inspiration for frequently targeted characters.
- Multi-Target Options: If available, consider spellcasting options that grant inspiration to multiple targets simultaneously.
- Inspire Off the Clock: Encourage players to roleplay moments of character interaction that can lead to inspiration, such as moments of bravery or confidence.
How to Use Bardic Inspiration on Foundry VTT
Bardic Inspiration is a powerful ability that bards can use to inspire their allies. It grants the target a bonus to ability checks, saving throws, or attack rolls. On Foundry VTT, you can use Bardic Inspiration by following these steps:
- Select the target of the Bardic Inspiration.
- Click on the “Bardic Inspiration” icon in the Actions tab.
- Select the type of bonus (ability check, saving throw, or attack roll) from the drop-down menu.
- Click on the “Apply” button.
The Bardic Inspiration bonus will last for 10 minutes or until the target has used it. You can track the duration and usage of Bardic Inspiration by clicking on the “Effects” tab on the target’s token.
People Also Ask About How to Use Bardic Inspiration on Foundry VTT
How do I remove Bardic Inspiration from a target?
To remove Bardic Inspiration from a target, click on the “Effects” tab on the target’s token. Then, find the Bardic Inspiration effect and click on the “X” button to remove it.
Can I use Bardic Inspiration on myself?
Yes, you can use Bardic Inspiration on yourself. This is a great way to give yourself a bonus on important rolls.
How many times can I use Bardic Inspiration per day?
The number of times you can use Bardic Inspiration per day is determined by your character’s level. At level 1, you can use it once per day. At level 5, you can use it twice per day. At level 9, you can use it three times per day. And at level 13, you can use it four times per day.
