Manbearcat
Legend
Who is still playing 4E? I'd to know if there are any resources out there that aren't connected to DnD Insider. My group has been playing 5E since release, but we find the system lacking in quality tactical combat. I'm hoping for constructive commentary. Thanks!
The only reason I'm not running a 4e game right now is because after two full games 1 - 30, we're spending our time on other systems (which have a lot of overlap with 4e but are subtly different). I'm running a Dungeon World game, a Hacker's Guide to Cortex + D&D game, and I'm exploring Torchbearer for my future dungeon crawl games. But none of these games will provide the full bore 4e experience (and 5e doesn't even attempt to touch it...by design...unfortunately or fortunately depending on your opinion). At some point, we'll run WotC D&D again and it will be 4e.
My advice to you would be to just use the books that you have available (and as a GM get DMG2 and RC). Intimately familiarize yourself with the math on a level by level basis. Develop or use stock monster theme templates. Always use some XP budget for traps/hazards. Always use some kind of challenging terrain. Work with your players to tie their quests to their Themes, Paragon Paths, and Epic Destinies. Hone your skill at running dynamic skill challenges (there are lots and lots and lots of threads by very proficient GMs on this) where your players (through their characters) have a stake in the outcome and full agency to dictate those outcomes. Push play toward conflict and play to find out what happens.