Bad dice rolls make combat last forever

[Stormonu]

Thanks for all the replies!


I like it... though a string of bad rolls would still be possible, just cumulatively less likely. In my example, we both rolled under 5 several times in a row (none of those would have hit even with a cumulative bonus).

By the way, it doesn't have to be +1. You could make it you add your current roll to the next roll. So, in the case where you both rolled 5, you'd add +5 to the next roll, and if the next roll had likewise been a 5, you'd be adding +10 to the next roll. If you don't want this to occur every round, you might make a rule it can only be done in desperation (the opponent gets the same bonus to hit you as you swing wilder and wilder each time, leaving yourself open) or perhaps it takes up an action to "ready" the blow (you roll, but don't apply the bonus until the next roll). The latter is really helpful against an opponent you know is difficult to hit.

Tokens and whatnot to allow rerolls are a lot of fun, but if the follow-up roll is just as bad, you're not getting anywhere.

 

[lingshu8]

perhaps it takes up an action to "ready" the blow (you roll, but don't apply the bonus until the next roll). The latter is really helpful against an opponent you know is difficult to hit.

I like that. I've seen some systems that use that kind of thing with ranged attacks -- you get a bonus if you spend an extra round "aiming." Never thought of applying it to melee, but it definitely adds a nice tactical element without over-complicating things.

Another possibility would be allowing a "reckless attack" bonus if he takes a defense penalty for that round -- say, allow him to shave 1-3 points off his AC to gain 1-3 bonus "to hit."

I must admit I prefer these kinds of solutions that give my son meaningful choices (agency) rather than just nerfing the battle with big bonuses just for the sake of ending it.

Thanks again for all the ideas!