My personal handling of DSA/TDE skill checks

A point of discussion is the famous 3D20 style of skill checks in the German RPG game. I often see people who are rather fanatically advocating for or against it. As I started back in the day with the first edition of that game I remember the start of the skill system and it started without the 3D20 but used 1D20. Only with the second edition did the change happen and ever since I'm of a divided mind. On one hand, I really like the 3D20 method because it gives players and DMs a hint on "what is needed" and why something might fail. On the other hand, it takes quite some more time etc.

Basically, here is my take on solving the discussion. First and foremost, I like both systems and want to keep them active as interchangeable tools for me as the DM. The skill values of this system are intended as modifiers but can just as easily be used as straight values.

I call my approach the LSD. "The long, short and desperate skill check"

1. The system is used as described in the rules for your edition.
2. The check is done with just one roll, using the average of the related character stats.
3. Treat the skill value as its own stat value and the D20 roll is against that value, as it was back in the 1st edition.

Which is used is decided by the DM criteria will become clearer below.
I like to use all three variants because that gives me another tool to lower or raise the difficulty level AND instil a sense of dramatic stress in a situation. This also helps me to make clear how much time is needed for a specific test...

• No. 1 is the easiest when you have time, no pressure and the appropriate tools, and can fully and exclusively concentrate on the task.
• No. 2 is the middle ground, the normal for heroes. The situation is less than ideal and there is some pressure for haste. Also, the tools might not be there.
• No. 3 is the hardest and a "normal" for the characters as well. The situation is dire, time is of absolute essence and the stakes are very high. This represents a character solely relying on experience, muscle memory etc. you can not really concentrate and work to your usual standard.

IMO the most unwieldy rule in TDE/DSA edition 5 is the ridiculous quality level rule. So ignore it, use 4th edition rules for that or whatever you like.