The Problem with D&D Combat (and how to fix it)

Summary

This video script discusses a new combat skill system for Dungeons and Dragons to enhance gameplay and reduce repetitive combat scenarios. It introduces 'tactical actions' replacing movement, allowing characters to use skills like Acrobatics, Athletics, and Insight in combat. The system categorizes tactics into six types, including attack enhancements and area control, offering players and monsters more dynamic options. The script also provides advice for Dungeon Masters on maintaining game pace and balancing the new mechanics.

Takeaways

• 🔪 The fighter charges into the room to face the pit fiend, followed by the Barbarian, Rogue, Cleric, and Wizard, each taking their typical combat roles.
• 🎲 Combat in Dungeons and Dragons can become repetitive with characters using the same actions repeatedly.
• ⚔️ Introducing a combat skill system can provide players with more options, making battles more dynamic and interesting.
• 🏃‍♂️ Movement actions are often underused in combat; the new system allows characters to use their movement for tactical actions.
• 🎭 Skills such as animal handling, deception, intimidation, and others can be integrated into combat to add variety and strategy.
• 🔄 The new system includes 32 different tactical actions that players can use, enhancing the variety of combat strategies.
• 💥 Monsters also benefit from the new system, gaining proficiency and expertise in skills related to their highest ability scores.
• 📋 To keep combat moving smoothly, game masters should prepare optimal tactics for each monster and encourage players to decide their actions in advance.
• 🧙‍♂️ The new combat system replaces the movement action with a tactical action, offering attack enhancements, penalties, area control, concealment, information, and movement options.
• 🗡️ The system allows for creative and customized combat tactics, which can be developed by both game masters and players to fit their specific needs.

Q & A

What is the main issue discussed in the video script regarding Dungeons and Dragons combat?

The main issue discussed is the repetitive and static nature of combat in Dungeons and Dragons, where characters tend to perform the same actions round after round, leading to a lack of variety and engagement.

What is the proposed solution to make combat more interesting in the script?

The proposed solution is the introduction of a combat skill system that allows players to use their character skills in combat in meaningful ways, providing more options and tactical depth to their turns.

How does the new combat skill system change the standard turn structure in D&D?

The new system replaces the movement action with a tactical action, giving characters the choice to either move or use a combat tactic based on their skills, thus adding more choices and complexity to the game.

What are the six categories of combat tactics mentioned in the script?

The six categories are attack enhancements, attack penalties, area control, concealment, information, and movement.

How can monsters benefit from the new combat skill system?

Monsters can also use combat tactics, giving them more abilities during combat and making them more challenging and engaging for players. This helps balance the power curve and keeps combat interesting.

What advice is given to Dungeon Masters to keep combat moving smoothly with the new system?

Dungeon Masters are advised to prepare by noting down the most likely tactics for each monster based on their role and skills, and encourage players to choose their combat tactics while others are taking their turns to avoid slowing down the game.

How does the script suggest enhancing monsters' skills for the combat skill system?

The script suggests giving monsters proficiency and possibly expertise in skills related to their highest and second-highest ability scores, making them more effective when using combat tactics.

What is the trade-off mentioned when introducing the new combat skill system?

The trade-off is a reduction in the speed of combat due to the added complexity and the need for players and Dungeon Masters to make more choices, in exchange for an increase in fun and engagement.

How can players create their own combat tactics within the system?

Players can use their creativity to come up with their own combat tactics, as long as they are reviewed for game balance, allowing for a personalized and engaging combat experience.

What additional resources are mentioned for Dungeon Masters to enhance their games?

The script mentions the DM Layer store, where the complete combat skills system is available, and Patreon benefits for DMs, which include access to additional resources like the Layer magazine and Foundry VTT modules.