5 beginner mistakes DMs make in combat (and quick fixes)

As a Dungeon Master (DM), running combat can sometimes feel like navigating a maze full of pitfalls, especially for beginners like you. It’s easy to fall into common DM combat mistakes that can lead to frustrating sessions for both you and your players. But don’t worry! I’m here to help you identify these pitfalls and provide quick, practical fixes that will enhance your gameplay experience and keep your players engaged. Let’s dive into five beginner DM mistakes and how you can avoid them to create smoother, more enjoyable combat encounters.

What you’ll learn in this article

• 🎲1Common DM combat mistakes and how to avoid them.
• ✅2Tips for managing action economy to keep combat engaging.
• 🔎3Simplifying initiative management for smoother turns.
• 🧙4‍♂️ Encounter design tips to maintain balance and excitement.
• ⚔5️ Effective use of terrain and maps to enhance gameplay.
• 📊6Tools and platforms for running combat smoothly, including virtual tabletops like Roll20 and Foundry.
• 🛠7️ Quick fixes for common combat issues to improve pacing.
• 📜8A one-page DM cheat sheet for quick reference during sessions.
• 📝9Sample encounter walkthroughs to illustrate problem-solving in real-time.
• 📚10Advanced tips for ongoing improvement as a DM.
• 🎲11Sample encounter walkthrough (4 players — problem and fixes)
• 🎲12Advanced tips & progressive improvements for DMs
• 🎲13Resources & complementary tools
• 🎲14FAQ (3–6 short Q&A)

1. Mistake 1: Ignoring action economy — why it breaks combats

Action economy refers to the total number of actions, bonus actions, and reactions available to each side during a combat round. For instance, if you have four players (PCs) who can take a total of 12 actions, but the enemies have eight goblins that collectively have 24 actions, the goblins will overwhelm the players. This imbalance can lead to frustratingly long turns where players feel like they are constantly reacting rather than taking meaningful actions.

1.1 What “action economy” means (simple definition and example)

In simple terms, action economy is the measure of how many actions are available to each side in a combat. For example, if you have four players in your game, each with one action per turn, that gives you 4 actions total. If the opposing side has two powerful enemies, they can take their actions as well, potentially leading to an unfair advantage if they have more actions overall.

To visualize this, consider using action tokens: give each side a number of tokens representing their expected actions. If you see the opponents have significantly more tokens than the players, it’s time to adjust! For instance, if your four PCs have 12 actions and the enemies have 24, you might want to consider grouping those enemies into fewer, stronger foes to balance the action economy.

1.2 Real-world signs you’re losing the action economy

When combat drags on, it’s a clear sign that you might be losing control of the action economy. Look for these signs:

• Rounds exceed 10–15 minutes.
• Players frequently check their phones or seem disengaged.
• Players repeatedly ask, “Did my turn pass?”
• Many non-damaging actions occur, like players skipping their turns or delaying their decisions.

If you notice these symptoms, it’s time to take action to restore balance.

1.3 Quick fixes (3–6 step procedure) and examples

Example: If you see combat dragging due to too many enemies, group them into a single entity and adjust their HP to keep the pace moving. This can help keep players engaged and the action flowing smoothly.

2. Mistake 2: Overcomplicating initiative and turn order

Overcomplicated initiative systems often lead to confusion and delays. If players are rolling in secret or the turn order is unclear, you might find that turns get skipped and the flow of combat is disrupted. For example, if a player rolls their initiative and keeps it private, others may forget their turn or become unsure of when to act. This can lead to frustration and disengagement at the table.

2.1 Common initiative pitfalls (delays, subround confusion)

1. Delays in Rolling: If players roll their initiative in secret, it can lead to confusion about the order of play.

2. Subround Confusion: If players are unsure of when they can take reactions or how ready actions fit into the turn flow, it can stall combat.

3. Unclear Turn Order: If the DM doesn’t announce the current turn or if players forget whose turn it is, it can lead to missed turns.

To combat these issues, always announce the initiative order clearly and refer back to it throughout combat.

2.2 Tools and simple initiative systems to simplify play

Using tools can streamline your initiative tracking significantly. Here are three options:

• Index Cards: Write player names and initiative rolls on cards. This method is simple and allows players to physically see the order.
• Digital Trackers: Use online tools like Improved Initiative or D&D Beyond’s tracker for easy visibility. These platforms can automate some of the tracking processes.
• Side-Based Initiative: Consider having all players act before all monsters, which can speed up the flow as players can plan together.

Each of these tools has its pros and cons, but they can help clarify the initiative process and improve the overall experience.

2.3 Short procedure to streamline initiative (3–5 steps)

Example: By using an index card system, I’ve found that players are more engaged and aware of their turns because they can see the order and anticipate their actions.

3. Mistake 3: Poor encounter balance & encounter bloat

Encounter bloat occurs when you have too many creatures in a battle. This can lead to long, drawn-out sessions where players feel overwhelmed and disengaged. For instance, if you have a party of four players facing ten weak enemies, the combat can become tedious. Tracking multiple creatures takes time and can lead to confusion about what actions are being taken.

3.1 Why too many monsters or wrong HP scales stall fun

When you have too many monsters, the administrative overhead increases. This means more rolls, more HP to track, and more decisions to make, which can overwhelm players. For example, if you have six enemies, each with their own HP, it can take a long time to resolve their turns, leading to player boredom and frustration.

The psychological impact can be significant. Players may feel their turns are being wasted, leading to morale drops. As a rule of thumb, try to keep the number of enemies to a maximum of 6-8 total to avoid this bloat.

3.2 How to design quick, meaningful encounters

Creating quick encounters can be done in four simple steps:

• Choose a Tactical Element: Decide on a terrain feature or environmental hazard that can impact the battle.
• Pick a Focal Threat: Select one strong enemy (a “boss”) that will serve as the primary challenge.
• Add 1-3 Minions: Introduce a few weaker enemies to support the boss, keeping the action economy in check.
• Set a Narrative Hook: Add a twist or narrative hook that can happen at a specific round to keep players engaged.

By following these steps, you can create encounters that are both meaningful and manageable, allowing for a smoother game experience.

3.3 Example encounter design and pruning steps (3–6 steps)

When designing encounters, here’s a simple pruning checklist:

• Remove Redundant Minions: If you have multiple identical monsters, consider reducing their numbers to streamline gameplay.
• Convert Extras into Hazards: If you have too many minions, think about turning some into environmental hazards that can pose a challenge without overloading the encounter.
• Merge Identical Monsters: If you find you have too many of the same creature, merge their stats into one stronger entity to simplify tracking.
• Adjust Mid-Fight: If you notice combat dragging, don’t hesitate to adjust the HP of minions or introduce a new challenge to keep players engaged.

Example: In one session, I realized that having too many goblins was slowing down combat. I decided to merge them into a single goblin commander with pooled HP, which kept the players engaged and the action moving.

4. Mistake 4: Losing sight of pacing and spotlight (turtling or spotlight hogging)

Pacing is essential for maintaining player engagement during combat. If turns take too long or players feel like they aren’t getting enough time in the spotlight, it can lead to frustration. For example, if one player dominates the conversation and hogs the spotlight, quieter players may disengage, feeling their contributions aren’t valued.

4.1 How pacing affects engagement (timing, time-to-action)

Long waits can drastically reduce immersion. If players find themselves waiting for extended periods for their turns, they may check their phones or lose focus. A good target is to keep the time-to-action (the time it takes for a player to take their turn) under 60–90 seconds.

If you notice that players are disengaging or combat feels sluggish, it’s a sign that you need to apply pacing fixes. This could include implementing a timer for turns or clustering player actions together to maintain momentum.

4.2 Techniques to share spotlight and speed up slow players

Here are a few techniques to help keep the spotlight balanced and speed up slower players:

• Round-Robin Call: Establish a clear order for players to follow, ensuring everyone knows when it’s their turn.
• 30-Second Timers: Implement a timer for each player’s turn to encourage quicker decision-making.
• Readiness Prompts: Before combat begins, ask players to think about their actions, so they are prepared when their turn comes around.
• Turn Buddy System: Pair players so that they can prompt each other, ensuring everyone stays engaged.

Example: I’ve implemented a round-robin system that allows players to know exactly when it’s their turn, which has significantly reduced downtime and increased engagement.

4.3 Short scripts to re-focus and quick pacing fixes (3–5 steps)

1. Pause & State Current Order: At any point of confusion, take a moment to remind everyone of the current turn order.

2. Give a Two-Option Prompt: For players who are hesitating, ask them to choose between two actions to encourage quicker decision-making.

3. Start a 15-Second Timer: If a player hasn’t made a decision, start a timer to encourage them to act.

4. Resolve or Auto-Act: If the timer runs out, have a “default action” ready for players who take too long, like defending or moving to a safer position.

Example: During a recent session, I used a timer to help a player who was taking longer than expected. This not only helped them make a decision but also kept the game moving at a good pace.

5. Mistake 5: Bad use of terrain, maps, and unclear positioning

Using terrain effectively can enhance gameplay, but if maps are unclear or poorly defined, it can lead to confusion and arguments. Players might not know where they can move or how far they can reach, leading to wasted turns and frustration. For example, if you describe a complex area without a visual aid, players might struggle to understand their options.

5.1 How unclear maps cause arguments and wasted turns

Common disputes arise from unclear maps, including:

• Reach Confusion: Players may argue about whether they can hit a target due to unclear positioning.
• Line of Sight Issues: If players can’t see where they can or can’t attack, it can lead to frustration.
• Ambiguous Positioning: Players may struggle with where they can move, leading to wasted turns.

To mitigate these disputes, always provide a clear and concise description of the map and the terrain features.

5.2 Practical map rules and token best practices

1. Use Top-Down Tokens: Always use top-down tokens that clearly indicate the position of each character on the map.

2. Set Grid to 5ft: Ensure your grid is set to a standard 5ft scale to help players understand movement distances.

3. Fog-of-War for Surprises: Use fog-of-war features to keep surprises hidden until players explore the area.

4. Mark Tactical Elements: Clearly identify areas of cover, difficult terrain, and hazards on your map to aid player decisions.

Example: I’ve found that using top-down tokens and marking difficult terrain on my maps has significantly reduced disputes and made combat flow much smoother.

5.3 Step-by-step repositioning rule to resolve disputes (3–5 steps)

1. State Current Contested Positions: Clearly announce the positions in question for all players to hear.

2. DM Picks Nearest-Sensible Placement: As the DM, choose the most logical placement for the tokens in question.

3. Allow One Player Brief Objection: Give the player whose position is contested a chance to provide evidence or reasoning for their placement.

4. Lock Positions for the Round: Once everyone has had a chance to speak, finalize the positions for the round and remind players that rules can be reviewed post-round.

Example: In a recent game, we had a dispute over positioning during a fight in a narrow corridor. By following this repositioning rule, we resolved the issue quickly and kept the game moving without further delays.

6. Tools & platforms to make combat smoother

To run smoother combats, leveraging the right tools and platforms is essential. As a beginner DM, you might feel overwhelmed by the options available, but focusing on a few key resources can simplify your combat experience. Virtual tabletops (VTTs) like Roll20 or Foundry provide robust features for managing maps, tokens, and initiative tracking. They allow you to visualize the battlefield and automate certain processes, reducing the cognitive load on you as the DM.

6.1 Virtual tabletops (VTT) tips and minimal setup

Setting up a virtual tabletop (VTT) might seem daunting, but with a few straightforward steps, you can have a functional and engaging environment for your players. A minimal setup can be accomplished in about 10-15 minutes, allowing you to jump right into the action without extensive prep time.

Here’s a simple five-step process to get your VTT ready for combat:

1. Upload tokens: Import 6–10 tokens for your players and NPCs. Make sure to use top-down images for clarity.
2. Import one map: Select a combat map that fits your encounter and upload it. Ensure that it’s scaled correctly to a 5ft grid.
3. Set scale to 5ft: Adjust the grid settings on your VTT to match the standard movement scale in your game.
4. Create one initiative macro: Set up a simple macro that rolls initiative for all characters and sorts them automatically.
5. Enable token HP display: Make sure that HP is visible for all tokens to keep track of health easily during combat.

By following these steps, you’ll have a streamlined VTT setup that allows for smooth gameplay. This not only enhances the experience for your players but also ensures that you have more time to focus on the narrative and character interactions.

6.2 Initiative trackers and automation (macros, modules)

Managing initiative can be one of the most challenging aspects of running combat, especially for new DMs. Utilizing initiative trackers and automation can help you maintain a smooth flow during encounters. A well-organized system allows you to keep track of turns without losing sight of the action or the story.

Here are a few automation options to consider for your initiative management:

1. Foundry VTT initiative module: This module auto-sorts initiative rolls and keeps players informed of the current turn order.
2. D&D Beyond Combat Tracker: If you’re using D&D Beyond, this built-in tool makes tracking initiative easy, as it automatically pulls character stats.
3. Improved Initiative: A web-based initiative tracker that allows you to input all characters and monsters, providing a clear turn order display.

For each of these tools, you can implement simple macros to automate common tasks, such as rolling for multiple creatures at once. This not only saves time but also allows you to focus on maintaining the narrative and engagement during combat.

6.3 Token, battlemaps, and asset packs (how to use them without over-setup)

Using tokens and battlemaps can enhance your gameplay significantly, but it’s essential to avoid overwhelming yourself with too many assets. By strategically selecting the right resources, you can create a visually appealing and organized combat environment without excessive prep work.

Here are some guidelines for using tokens and battlemaps effectively:

1. Limit imports: For each session, aim to use no more than 3 maps and 8–12 tokens. This keeps your setup manageable and focused on the current encounter.
2. Use templates: Create token templates for named NPCs and duplicate them for minions. This saves time when you need to set up multiple similar creatures.
3. Match your art style: Choose assets that align with the overall aesthetic of your campaign. This creates a more immersive experience for your players.
4. Purchase or download bundles: Consider acquiring packs that provide a variety of tokens and maps. For example, the Game Master Toolbox or the 8000 tokens pack can save you significant prep time.

By following these practices, you can maximize the effectiveness of your tokens and battlemaps while minimizing setup time, allowing you to focus on delivering an engaging and dynamic gaming experience.

7. Automation & macros: time-savers that still feel organic

Automation and macros can be invaluable tools for streamlining combat, especially for beginner DMs. By using macros, you can automate repetitive tasks, such as rolling for initiative or managing health points, which frees you up to focus on storytelling and player engagement.

7.1 Useful macros and automated rolls to create

Creating macros can greatly enhance your efficiency as a DM, especially during combat. By automating common rolls and actions, you can maintain the flow of the game without getting bogged down in mechanics. Here are some essential macros to consider:

By creating these macros, you can focus more on engaging your players and less on the mechanics of combat. This not only enhances the experience for everyone at the table but also helps you feel more confident in your role as a DM.

7.2 Initiative automation and simple visibility rules

Managing initiative can be one of the most challenging aspects of running combat, but automation can greatly ease this burden. By using initiative trackers and visibility rules, you can create a more organized and efficient combat environment.

By implementing these visibility rules and using initiative automation, you can improve the flow of combat and ensure that players are always aware of their position in the turn order.

7.3 3-step macro examples (set up and use)

Creating effective macros doesn’t have to be complicated. By following a simple three-step process, you can set up macros that save you time and enhance your gameplay experience. Here are three practical examples:

1. Mob Attack Macro: Setup: 1) Input mob attack bonus & count, 2) Macro rolls 1d20 + attack bonus, 3) Announce hit/miss and damage to chat.
2. HP Pool Macro: Setup: 1) Enter total pool HP, 2) Enter damage taken, 3) Macro subtracts from the pool and announces remaining HP.
3. Initiative Macro: Setup: 1) Enter names and initiative modifiers, 2) Macro rolls/sorts, 3) Outputs ordered list to chat.

By following these simple setups, you can create macros that significantly reduce the time spent on mechanical tasks, allowing you to focus on storytelling and player engagement.

8. Management techniques: adjudication, disputes, and table scripts

As a DM, managing disputes and adjudications during combat is crucial for maintaining the flow of the game. Conflicts can arise over rules, positioning, or actions taken, and having clear management techniques can help you address these issues swiftly and fairly.

8.1 Short adjudication rules to keep momentum

Maintaining momentum during combat is essential for keeping players engaged. Quick adjudication rules can help you make decisions on the fly, ensuring that disputes don’t slow down the game.

Example: When a player asks about line-of-sight during a combat scenario, you can quickly apply a default ruling to maintain the pace.

Here are four rapid adjudication rules that you can state at the session’s start:

• Line of sight is clear unless blocked.
• Reach is determined by the last declared position.
• Contested spaces are resolved by placing tokens at the nearest logical location.
• Locked for this round—review after.

By implementing these quick rules, you can keep the game flowing smoothly and maintain player engagement.

8.2 Player dispute phrases and DM one-liners (samples)

As a DM, it’s essential to have a repertoire of phrases ready to help you manage disputes effectively. These one-liners can help defuse tension and keep the game moving forward.

Here are six sample one-liners that you can use for various dispute types:

• Position disputes: “State your claim in one sentence.”
• Rule clarifications: “Default: nearest clear interpretation.”
• Locked positions: “Locked for this round—review after.”
• Encourage quick actions: “Play on—if you’re right, you’ll get a bonus next round.”
• Offer alternatives: “You can take a quick action instead.”
• Timeout for indecision: “Timeout = defend.”

By incorporating these phrases into your gameplay, you can create a more organized environment and help players feel heard while keeping the game flowing.

8.3 4-step dispute resolution flow for combat

When disputes arise during combat, it’s crucial to have a structured approach for resolving them. Here’s a compact four-step flow that you can use to handle disputes efficiently:

1. Pause and state claims: Allow each player involved in the dispute to state their claims for a maximum of 30 seconds.
2. Make a temporary ruling: Apply a quick in-game ruling based on the information presented, and announce any consequences or effects.
3. Flag the issue: Mark the dispute for later review, letting players know you’ll revisit it after the session.
4. Continue and log details: Move back into the action, ensuring that you document the dispute for future reference.

By using this structured approach, you can resolve disputes without derailing the game. Players will appreciate your fairness and your ability to keep the story moving forward.

9. Featured quick-fix recipes (3–6 step procedures)

When combat encounters stall or become unbalanced, having quick-fix recipes at your disposal can help you regain control and keep the game flowing. Here are three quick-fix recipes for common combat issues:

Recipe A: Recover momentum after a stalled round (3–5 steps)

1. Pause: Take a moment to assess the situation and gather everyone’s attention.

2. Quick-round state actions: Ask players to briefly state their intended actions.

3. Resolve in order: Process actions in the established initiative order.

4. Narrate batch results: Summarize the outcomes of multiple actions succinctly to keep the narrative moving.

Recipe B: Scaling an encounter mid-combat safely (4 steps)

1. Assess HP and resources: Evaluate the party’s health and remaining resources.

2. Choose one small tweak: Decide whether to reduce enemy HP by 10-20% or add one minion.

3. Apply tweak narratively: Make the adjustment clear to the players and explain the reasoning.

4. Record adjustment: Note the change for future reference and encounter tuning.

Recipe C: Handling a rules argument mid-fight (3–4 steps)

1. Stop and state the disputed move: Allow players to clarify the rule in question.

2. Apply “default ruling” one-liner: Use a prepared phrase to quickly resolve the dispute.

3. Resume combat: Keep the game moving forward, ensuring that players stay engaged with the narrative.

4. Log and schedule a post-session lookup: Document the issue for later review, allowing for adjustments and clarifications as needed.

By having these recipes ready, you can quickly address common combat challenges and keep your sessions engaging and enjoyable for all players.

10. DM one-page cheat-sheet for combat (printable template)

As a Dungeon Master (DM), having a one-page cheat-sheet can streamline your combat sessions. This handy reference will help you keep track of turn order, quickly adjudicate rules, and manage initiative effectively. Here’s how to create a useful combat cheat-sheet that you can print and have at the table.

10.1 Turn order reminder and quick adjudication rules

To keep combat flowing smoothly, it’s essential to have a clear turn order and quick adjudication rules. One effective way to remember the structure is the mnemonic “POWR,” which stands for Plan, Order, Watch, Resolve. This reminds you to plan the combat sequence, order players and monsters correctly, watch for any missed turns, and resolve actions promptly.

Quick adjudication defaults for common conflicts can also save time. For example, if a player claims they should have cover, you can quickly rule that “cover is granted unless a clear obstacle is present.” This rule can help you avoid lengthy discussions that can slow down the game.

10.2 Initiative handling cheat (what to ask players each turn)

Managing initiative effectively can be a game-changer in speeding up combat. When it’s a player’s turn, having a set of questions to prompt their actions can lessen confusion and decision paralysis. You can ask the following questions each turn:

1. Movement: “What movement will you take? Please specify distance.”
2. Action: “What action are you taking? Attack, spell, or other?”
3. Bonus Action: “Are you using a bonus action?”
4. Reaction: “Do you have a reaction reserved for this turn?”

By asking these questions, you can keep players focused and engaged, minimizing delays.

10.3 Troubleshooting flow (5 quick steps)

Combat can sometimes stall due to various reasons, such as a player taking too long or unclear actions causing disputes. Having a troubleshooting flow can help you quickly identify and resolve these issues. Here’s a simple five-step process to follow:

1. Identify Stall: If combat exceeds a specific time threshold (e.g., 10 minutes without resolution), recognize that it’s time to intervene.
2. Prompt Choices: Ask the stuck player for their choices, giving them a moment to focus.
3. Apply Mechanic Fix: If they’re still unsure, apply a mechanic fix like batch rolls or adjusting HP for clarity.
4. Add Narrative Twist: Introduce an environmental twist (like a cave-in or reinforcements) to reignite excitement.
5. Log and Review: Keep a record of any issues for post-session discussions to improve future encounters.

11. Sample encounter walkthrough (4 players — problem and fixes)

To illustrate the common mistakes and fixes in combat, let’s walk through a sample encounter involving four players facing a hobgoblin boss and several goblins. This example will highlight how to set up the encounter, the issues encountered, and the fixes applied to enhance the experience.

11.1 Encounter setup (map, monsters, HP, initiative order)

For this encounter, you will need a 30×30 cave map with stalagmites for cover. The monster setup includes a hobgoblin boss with 45 HP and four goblins with a pooled HP of 30.

Initiative Order Example:

Preparation Checklist:

• Prepare an initiative sheet for easy reference.
• Group the goblin tokens into a single pool to simplify tracking.
• Mark cover pieces on the map for tactical movement.

11.2 Round-by-round narration showing mistakes and fixes

In the initial run of this encounter, several mistakes were made that hindered the flow. For example, the Rogue’s turn was skipped, goblins attacked in a confusing manner, and no timer was set for player actions. Here’s a compact table showing the actions and results:

By implementing these fixes, the encounter duration reduced from 45 minutes to 25 minutes, and player engagement increased significantly.

11.3 Outcome and short analysis of what changed

After applying the fixes, the outcome of the encounter was much more favorable. The hobgoblin boss fled at 5 HP, and the players felt a sense of narrative victory. The total time taken for the encounter was significantly reduced to 25 minutes, compared to the original 45 minutes.

Analysis Metrics:

• Average time per turn decreased.
• Player actions per round increased.
• Fewer disputes arose regarding positioning and actions.

It’s highly recommended to log these encounters for future reference. Keeping track of encounter length, number of disputes, and player satisfaction can provide valuable insights for future sessions.

12. Advanced tips & progressive improvements for DMs

As you gain experience as a DM, there are several advanced tips you can implement to improve your combat sessions. Focusing on practice, playtesting, and gradually introducing complexity will help you refine your skills and enhance the gaming experience for your players.

12.1 How to practice combat-running between sessions

Practicing combat-running can significantly enhance your confidence and efficiency during sessions. Here are three specific drills that you can implement:

• Initiative-Only Drill: Sort and call 20 turns in 5 minutes. This will help you get used to the pace of combat.
• Encounter Template Simulation: Set a stopwatch and simulate three different encounter templates to understand pacing and engagement.
• Macro Rehearsal: Spend time rehearsing the use of macros in your chosen virtual tabletop (VTT) to ensure seamless integration during live sessions.

12.2 Using playtesting and session debriefs to iterate

After each session, taking the time to reflect on what worked and what didn’t can lead to significant improvements. A simple post-session debrief template can help streamline this process:

• What worked well?
• What slowed down combat?
• What is one change you will make for the next session?
• Numeric engagement score (1-5)

This structured approach to debriefing will help you focus on tangible improvements and allow you to gauge overall player satisfaction.

Example: If players noted that combat felt slow, you might decide to implement a timer for player actions in the next session.

12.3 When to introduce complexity (and when not to)

Introducing complexity in combat should be done thoughtfully. A good rule of thumb is to add complexity only after your table has demonstrated a consistent ability to handle balanced encounters in less than 30 minutes with few disputes.

For instance, you might consider introducing legendary actions only after several successful sessions without any major issues. Conversely, keep things simple in the beginning with straightforward mechanics, especially if you have new players at the table.

13. Resources & complementary tools

Having the right resources and tools can significantly enhance your combat sessions and overall DM experience. Whether you’re looking for initiative trackers, battlemaps, or community support, there are plenty of options available.

13.1 Selected GM Craft Tavern assets and when to buy/use them

When considering asset packs from GM Craft Tavern, such as the Game Master Toolbox, the 8000 tokens pack, and the 165000 battlemaps, you should buy these when:

• You need recurring visual assets for ongoing campaigns.
• The art style fits your table’s theme.
• Your prep time is limited, and you want to streamline setup.

Using these resources can save you time and enhance your players’ visual experience during combat.

13.2 Free and paid tools (VTTs, initiative apps, printable packs)

Consider using tools like D&D Beyond, Foundry VTT, Roll20, Combat Companion, and community resources like Improved Initiative and DM Tools.

Cost-Benefit Analysis:

• D&D Beyond: Great for character management (free/paid).
• Foundry VTT: One-time purchase, powerful features.
• Roll20: Freemium model; good for online play.
• Improved Initiative: Free, excellent for managing turn order.

13.3 How to choose the right tool for your table

When selecting tools for your DMing needs, consider a simple decision checklist that includes:

• Tech Comfort: Are you and your players comfortable with the technology?
• Session Frequency: How often do you play? More frequent sessions may benefit from more robust tools.
• Visual Needs: Do you prefer a grid system or theater of the mind?
• Budget: What is your financial limit for tools and resources?

14. FAQ (3–6 short Q&A)

What if my players insist on complex strategies that slow combat?
If players are focused on complex strategies that hinder the flow, gently remind them to keep their plans simple. You can encourage them to prioritize straightforward actions during combat to maintain pacing.

How can I handle a player who always wants to ‘do something’ but slows others?
Consider assigning a “turn buddy” to this player, so they can discuss their options with another player before their turn. This can help them make quicker decisions and keep the game moving.

Is it OK to change encounter difficulty mid-combat?
Yes, it’s often necessary to adjust difficulty to maintain fun. You can reduce enemy HP or introduce reinforcements to balance the encounter without removing any characters.

What’s a fast rule to resolve contested movement/positioning disputes?
You can implement a simple rule: default to the nearest clear interpretation of the position. This allows you to make a quick ruling and keep the game flowing, with a promise to revisit the ruling after the round.

Which tools actually speed up combat without stealing player agency?
Tools like Improved Initiative and D&D Beyond can automate certain aspects of combat, like tracking turns and managing stats, while still allowing players to make meaningful choices during their turns.

Fox’s take: Combat can be one of the most challenging aspects of running a tabletop RPG, especially for beginner DMs. However, by identifying common pitfalls and applying quick fixes, you can create a more engaging and enjoyable experience for your players. Remember to keep an eye on action economy, simplify initiative management, and utilize tools effectively. As you gain experience, continue to iterate and refine your approach based on player feedback and your observations. Happy DMing!

FAQ

Sources

• dm.tools
• dungeongoblin.com
• improvedinitiative.app
• initiative-tracker-for-dandd.en.uptodown.com