D&D 5E Basic DM encounter building tips

[Rhenny]

One of the most important differences about 5e and prior editions is how sheer number of foes makes a huge difference. As a player I always gasp and pause when our pcs are outnumbered. As DM, I use this to enhance the mood as well as making an encounter more difficult. I'm finding that players are seeking alternatives to combat more often than in the past when faced with 10 or more foes. I love this about 5e.

 

[Tony Vargas]

I'd use the OPs tricks (which, as he pointed out are far from new - I remember hearing similar back in the 80s) in 5e, to up the threat/interest of lower-level monsters as an alternative to simply adding more lower level monsters, since being outnumbered is such a significant factor in 5e.