Goodman Games

Mutation rolls get to add the class level, but a roll of 1 is always a failure. The 1 result on all mutation rolls indicate to roll on the defect table.

Does this mean that, statistically, every 1 in 20 uses of a mutation will result in a character acquiring another permanent defect? Or does adding class level mean that you'll never get a 1?

It's talking about a natural 1 on the die, a.k.a. a fumble.

So every natural 1 gives a permanent defect?

Seems harsh.

Life in Terra A.D. is harsh.

Radburn can remove a mutation (including defects) on a 1, and give you a new mutation on a 20. The "economy" of the game is change...

WhiteLily

One option, depending on your Judge, might be to spend a point of luck to avoid the defect.

Mutations and wetware are patterned on DCC spellcasting, and in DCC Wizards can burn a point of luck to avoid a point of corruption when they roll a 1.

I would probably allow it when rolling a 1 on a mutation check, but not when failing a saving throw against radburn. This would give plantients an advantage, since they can regenerate luck, but overall it means they are spending luck to do that instead of to help someone else in the party, so it probably works out.

Happy gaming...

Melfast