Why Your D&D Combat feels SLOW

Summary

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Takeaways

• 😀 Adding dynamic elements like pillars, elevation, and large central objects can make a battlefield more engaging and tactical.
• 😀 Always think ahead about your next move during combat to keep the game flowing and avoid hesitation that slows down the action.
• 😀 Using a larger grid (like 10-ft squares or hexes) reduces decision fatigue and makes combat faster by simplifying movement options.
• 😀 Combat should involve more than just reducing hit points—introduce pushing, pulling, and other tactical actions to keep things interesting.
• 😀 Opportunity attacks can restrict movement and slow down combat—consider altering the rule to allow free movement without penalty.
• 😀 Rolling attack and damage dice together saves time and keeps the pace of combat fast and fluid.
• 😀 Use static damage for monsters or simplify initiative rolls to speed up the game and reduce downtime during combat.
• 😀 Combat can be more engaging when players have alternate objectives (like Capture the Flag or King of the Hill) rather than just fighting to the death.
• 😀 Consider using abstract mapping methods, like zones or simpler distance measurements, to streamline combat and improve clarity.
• 😀 Avoid overcomplicating the battlefield with too many elements or unnecessary rules that can bog down the flow of the game.
• 😀 Engaging boss monster actions (with build-ups and multi-round effects) add tension and excitement to encounters, rather than just focusing on damage reduction.

Q & A

What is the main issue with a flat, featureless battlefield in D&D combat?

A flat, featureless battlefield lacks interaction points for both players and monsters, making the combat dull and predictable. This reduces tactical choices and slows down the pace of the game.

How can you improve the battlefield to make it more dynamic?

To improve the battlefield, add features like pillars, terrain height changes, or large objects (like boulders or trees) to provide cover, tactical opportunities, and obstacles that encourage movement and strategy.

What is a common mistake players and GMs make regarding combat turns?

A common mistake is not thinking ahead before their turn, leading to hesitation and delays. Players and GMs should plan their next move in advance to keep the action flowing smoothly.

Why is the 5-ft grid problematic in D&D combat?

The 5-ft grid can make combat slower by introducing too many choices and requiring precise positioning, which can overwhelm players and stretch out the turn duration.

What is a recommended solution for dealing with the 5-ft grid issue?

One solution is to use a larger grid or an abstract mapping method. This reduces the number of decisions players have to make regarding positioning, speeding up the combat flow.

How can monsters be made more interesting in combat, rather than just dealing damage?

Monsters can be made more interesting by giving them special actions, such as pushing, pulling, or creating battlefield effects. These actions can take a round to resolve, adding tension and variety to combat.

What issue does the 'Opportunity Attack' rule create in D&D combat?

The 'Opportunity Attack' rule discourages movement, as players fear getting punished with a free attack whenever they leave melee range. This can cause the combat to stagnate and reduce tactical options.

What is an alternative to the Opportunity Attack rule that can speed up combat?

A simpler system could allow free movement, with additional attacks only triggered under specific conditions, like if a target is surrounded by three or more enemies. This reduces the burden on movement and encourages more dynamic combat.

How can players reduce downtime caused by rolling dice slowly during combat?

To speed up dice rolls, players should roll attack and damage dice together, avoiding the need to roll them separately. Additionally, GMs can use static damage for monsters or adjust initiative systems to eliminate delays.

What are some examples of alternate combat objectives to replace simple hit point reduction?

Alternate combat objectives could include capturing a target, engaging in a chase, or controlling specific areas of the battlefield (like 'King of the Hill'). These objectives add variety and excitement to combat, keeping players engaged and thinking creatively.