The example the OP gave was precisely the wrong one to give (of a character with 6 CHA trying to manipulate a crowd), because there absolutely IS a check for that, only its not an ability score check of some kind, its a Reaction Roll, modified by CHA.

RPGPundit

A couple sessions back we did an opposed ability check during a haggling session. We did roll under CHA / WIS, largest margin wins. The player earned some bonuses due to good roleplaying during the haggle.

Generally we do 2-3 checks per night. Many times checks need not be made because the characters take their time performing the actions. Ability checks are used in stressful situations or when no prep time is available.

This reminds me that just because it isn't regularly specified, doesn't mean that oft used die mechanics are not compatible with attribute checks. The GM should be aware of alternate tools in case exciting situations warrant their use -- just like an opposed attribute check to determine haggling.

So even if regular pass/fail is familiar to attribute checks, we should remember the others. Namely degree of success check (I'm fond of an attribute pass/fail with degrees of demarcation within pass and fail spreads) and opposed attribute checks (where each contestant rolls a check and the degree of difference is compared). I'm sure there's another I'm forgetting, but the point remains the same.

The six prime attributes are a great tool from the beginning, not needing to be translated into a modifier for general application. There just needs to be an awareness of the various tools you can use with them.

I use ability checks all the damn time.

My house-rule skill system for the Rules Cyclopedia relies on it. Whenever the player can convince me the skill is useful for that roll, 3 is added to whichever ability, still roll under.

For example, if the PC has Horsemanship or whatever, the ability is considered 3 points higher when dealing with horses. So if they are trying to hold on during a chase or something, then add the skill to Strength or Dexterity or whatever. They also add the bonus to say Intelligence or Wisdom when training a horse or buying a few.

Quote from: Opaopajr;571661This reminds me that just because it isn't regularly specified, doesn't mean that oft used die mechanics are not compatible with attribute checks. The GM should be aware of alternate tools in case exciting situations warrant their use -- just like an opposed attribute check to determine haggling.

So even if regular pass/fail is familiar to attribute checks, we should remember the others. Namely degree of success check (I'm fond of an attribute pass/fail with degrees of demarcation within pass and fail spreads) and opposed attribute checks (where each contestant rolls a check and the degree of difference is compared). I'm sure there's another I'm forgetting, but the point remains the same.

The six prime attributes are a great tool from the beginning, not needing to be translated into a modifier for general application. There just needs to be an awareness of the various tools you can use with them.

Thresholds like MtAs Rev I use them all the time. Whatever game I happen to be running. MtAw spells it out with charts even.  I love it because it's less work.

The way I do it in Arrows of Indra is that anyone can attempt any skill that wouldn't require specific knowledge-training; the check is a d20+ability score modifier+ any skill or class related bonuses.
However, if you have at least a +1 bonus from skill or class, then you can choose to "take a 10" (ie. assume you rolled a 10 rather than actually having to roll); people with no skill points or class benefit to a check always have to roll.

The DCs for a very basic use of the skill are 10, for average uses are 15, for very difficult checks they're 20.

RPGPundit