Part of the Steadfast5e suite for grittier, OSR-flavored 5E play.

Compresses player and NPC hit points to make combat more lethal and resource management more meaningful at every level.

The Formula
Level 1 uses the standard 5E formula: hit die maximum + CON modifier. Every level beyond 1st grants half the hit die only — no additional CON modifier.

Multiclass characters automatically use the largest hit die for the level 1 calculation.

Feats and racial features (Tough, Dwarven Toughness, Draconic Resilience) stack on top of the formula as normal.

Existing characters have their HP recalculated on session load, with current HP adjusted proportionally so no one suddenly drops dead at the table.

Options (GM-only, House Rules panel)

• Apply to PCs — on by default
• Apply to NPCs (companions, hirelings, sidekicks) — on by default
• Apply to Monsters — off by default
• Level Up Mode: Auto Apply or Prompt Player

Compatibility

• D&D 5E 2014 (Legacy) and 2024
• Compatible with other Steadfast5e extensions