Hey guys and gals. I just wanted to share my House Rule “Rule of Cool”. I’ve been using it at two tables I DM and my players seem to adore this rule. I figured I’d share it.
Each player receives one RoC per game session. It does not carry over to future sessions.
Players may use additional RoC activations by spending an Inspiration Point.
Purpose
We all have those “wouldn’t it be cool if…” moments—epic ideas that don’t always fit neatly into standard action economy. The Rule of Cool exists to bring those cinematic ideas to life.
Your character is a legendary figure in this story. The RoC is their personal legendary action—a chance to shine in a clutch, unforgettable way.
Usage
The Rule of Cool can be activated at any time, even in the middle of another player or creature’s turn. When a player calls for a RoC:
The game momentarily pauses.
The turn shifts to the RoC-calling player.
That player is granted:
One action, OR
One bonus action, OR
One reaction-style ability, OR
The opportunity to attempt a skill check (e.g., Intimidation, Performance, etc.)
The player may also move up to 10 feet during this moment.
Once the RoC is resolved, gameplay resumes exactly where it left off.
Rules & Restrictions
Cinematic Flair Required: RoC moments are meant to be epic. Players must narrate their action vividly—what they do, how they do it, and why it matters. A plain “I attack twice” won’t cut it. This is your time to create a character-defining scene.
No Stacking RoCs: You cannot interrupt someone else’s RoC with your own. Each player gets their time in the spotlight. Additionally, RoCs cannot be used to interrupt a creature’s Legendary Action—but they can be used during Lair Actions.
No Inspiration Gain: RoCs are about expression, not reward. You cannot earn Inspiration Points from using a Rule of Cool.
Let your creativity lead, and make your story moments unforgettable.
Hey guys and gals. I just wanted to share my House Rule “Rule of Cool”. I’ve been using it at two tables I DM and my players seem to adore this rule. I figured I’d share it.
😊
Rule of Cool (RoC)
Overview
Each player receives one RoC per game session. It does not carry over to future sessions.
Players may use additional RoC activations by spending an Inspiration Point.
Purpose
We all have those “wouldn’t it be cool if…” moments—epic ideas that don’t always fit neatly into standard action economy. The Rule of Cool exists to bring those cinematic ideas to life.
Your character is a legendary figure in this story. The RoC is their personal legendary action—a chance to shine in a clutch, unforgettable way.
Usage
The Rule of Cool can be activated at any time, even in the middle of another player or creature’s turn. When a player calls for a RoC:
That player is granted:
The player may also move up to 10 feet during this moment.
Once the RoC is resolved, gameplay resumes exactly where it left off.
Rules & Restrictions
RoC moments are meant to be epic. Players must narrate their action vividly—what they do, how they do it, and why it matters. A plain “I attack twice” won’t cut it. This is your time to create a character-defining scene.
You cannot interrupt someone else’s RoC with your own. Each player gets their time in the spotlight.
Additionally, RoCs cannot be used to interrupt a creature’s Legendary Action—but they can be used during Lair Actions.
RoCs are about expression, not reward. You cannot earn Inspiration Points from using a Rule of Cool.
Let your creativity lead, and make your story moments unforgettable.