Dice rolls can be too clicky, too roomy, or too long for your edit. When choosing a download or writing a prompt, focus on three knobs: material and surface (brightness), number of dice (density), and distance (room tone and tail). Use the notes below to get a roll that reads clearly in the moment without masking speech or music.
Pick the surface and material first
Surface and dice material determine the high-end bite and how quickly the roll settles. Wood tends to sound brighter and more percussive, while felt reduces sharp transients and keeps the roll from feeling harsh.
- For crisp on-camera rolls: specify wooden table, close mic, sharp transient
- For quieter tabletop sessions: specify felt mat, softened highs, short decay
- For dramatic hits: specify heavy dice, stronger low-mid thud, slower settle
Decide how many dice and how busy it should feel
A single d20 reads as a clear action point, while multiple dice create a wash of clacks that can feel chaotic. Match density to the on-screen hand motion and the emotional beat.
- Single check roll: one die, clean attack, minimal bounce
- Damage roll: 4 to 10 dice, dense clatter, controlled tail
- Edit-friendly sequences: multiple rolls spaced with small pauses
Control distance, room tone, and tail length
Perspective is what makes a dice roll feel like it belongs in a room, not pasted on top. Close rolls cut through narration; distant rolls blend into ambience but need careful tail control.
- For UI or overlays: minimal room tone, tight stop, low reflections
- For scene realism: light room reflections, natural decay, moderate tail
- For tavern or hall scenes: slightly distant mic, wider stereo, audible room bed
Avoid common dice-roll mistakes
A great dice roll is short, readable, and not distracting. Overly long rattles, exaggerated bounce, or overly bright clicks can sound fake and pull attention away from the content.
- Avoid tails that ring longer than the visual roll settles
- Avoid extreme high-end that masks consonants in dialogue
- Avoid random extra foley like hand slaps unless you explicitly need it
