Adversity Tokens

Adversity Tokens represent mounting stress, fear, injuries, and complications.

Gaining Adversity Tokens

You gain tokens when:

  • Failed important rolls – Things go wrong
  • Flaws are triggered – Your weaknesses cause problems
  • Fears are triggered – You face what terrifies you
  • GM compels – Story demands complications
  • Dangerous situations – Taking risks that don’t pay off

Using Adversity Tokens

Players can spend tokens for:

  • +1 to any roll per token spent (spend before or after rolling)
  • Describe how desperation, adrenaline, or determination helps you succeed

GM Using Adversity Tokens

The GM can trigger your accumulated tokens to:

  • Create narrative complications
  • Have something go wrong at the worst time
  • Introduce new obstacles or dangers
  • Make situations more dire

Managing Tokens

Token Economy

  • Start each session with 0 tokens (unless carrying over from cliffhanger)
  • Build up tokens through failures and complications
  • Spend strategically on critical moments
  • High token counts mean you’re in deep trouble

Clearing Tokens

Tokens typically clear when:

  • Scene ends and characters catch their breath
  • Significant downtime or rest
  • Major story milestone is achieved
  • Danger is resolved (GM discretion)

Lasting Consequences

Injuries & Conditions

When harm is severe, you might gain lasting conditions:

  • Minor: “Sprained Ankle,” “Shaken,” “Scratched Up”
  • Major: “Broken Arm,” “Traumatized,” “Haunted by Visions”
  • These act like temporary Flaws until healed

Recovering from Consequences

  • Minor conditions: Heal after rest or medical attention
  • Major conditions: Require significant time or special treatment
  • Psychological trauma: May need therapy, support, or confronting fears

Death & Serious Harm

Kids On Bikes typically avoids character death, but serious consequences are real:

  • Characters can be incapacitated, captured, or traumatized
  • The horror escalates but kids survive (usually)
  • Major consequences shape character development

See also: Playing Kids On Bikes