Appropriate ECL for small party

[Banosby]

Would any of you who have more experience DMing mind giving me some advice concerning the appropriate ECL for encounters for a party consisting of a Fighter 3 and a Rogue 1/Ranger 2? It would be most appreciated.

 

[Nifft]

That's not just a small party, it's a weak party.

The Fighter has just hit his first "kick in the nuts" level. They don't have any healing, they don't have any "fight-ending" magic, and they don't have a consistent skill set -- at least ONE of them is clanky, right?

I'd look more to the individual abilities of CR 1, 2 and 3 encounters. Some allegedly appropriate critters will hit them disproportionately hard, especially melee monsters -- those are usually best handed with magic.

Cheers, -- N

 

[Tethka]

Most CR encounters are based on a four member party. Since there is only 2 members, then just divide the CR by half. So the total CR of the creatures or traps should be 1 or 2 at the party's present level. This is a guide of course and could be modified as needed.

 

[pawsplay]

No, you don't divide the CR in half. You shoot for an ECL two lower than a full party.

I hope they have a second wind feat or access to healing or something.