Fights

[shawnhcorey]

An interesting video from Hello Future Me on writing fight scenes. I was wondering how much of it could be applied to RPGs. For example adding problem solving to the fights. It would certainly make them more interest than the typical dungeon crawl.

 

[Son of the Serpent]

An interesting video from Hello Future Me on writing fight scenes. I was wondering how much of it could be applied to RPGs. For example adding problem solving to the fights. It would certainly make them more interest than the typical dungeon crawl.

Knowledges (whos value is signifficantly depreciated in 5e) seriously help boost the puzzle solvey ness of fights. There are other things which help add elements like that to fights but knowledges are one of the best.

I dm 3.x where knowledges were still a very healthy skill.

Now, this doesnt mean:

Have pc roll a knowlesge check. If they roll high enough tell them the secret kill swith duct taped to the monster's back.

What it DOES mean:

Have a wealth of different types of lore for different foes (if thats reasonable. Sometimes it just isnt) and also for spells and physics and whatever else is relevant in the universe. Through learning a lot of the subtleties of these topics, usually your players start indirectly realizing ways to turn weaknesses of foes to their advantage and also usually indirectly become aware of some of those weaknesses.

 

[Son of the Serpent]

An interesting video from Hello Future Me on writing fight scenes. I was wondering how much of it could be applied to RPGs. For example adding problem solving to the fights. It would certainly make them more interest than the typical dungeon crawl.

Also, environmental factors. Fighting an undead weak to sunlight during the day indoors but no one has sunlight spells? Knocking down walls restricts the undead's movement unless they want a really bad sunburn.

Non evil druid that the party is underleveled for is the foe?

Start a forest fire so that they have to split their attention between the party and containing the blaze

 

[Son of the Serpent]

Maybe you have a seaside volcanic dungeon where you have to chanel water through the dungeon to traverse certain areas. Dont be afraid to go full on retro zelda mode.

 

[Fenris-77]

The first rule of Fights thread is don't talk about Fights thread.

The second rule of Fights thread is don't try to overdo the realism. Most games aren't even close to being simulations of actual combat, and nor should they be.

The third rule of Fights thread is get your players to do most of the work. Those lazy gits are mostly just rolling dice and eating Cheetos, so get them to take on some narrative duties.

The fourth rule of Fights thread is use a three act structure dinkus, it works.

The fifth rule of Fights thread is don't use too many words. Sorry, what? I got bored in the middle of what you were saying there. Be fast and furious, make your prose match the pacing of the scene. Fights scenes aren't the place for the DM to wax poetic.

Anyway, yeah, knowing something about how to write a fight scene can help you adjudicate one better.

 

[Darth Solo]

The fourth rule of Fights thread is use a three act structure dinkus, it works.

Do you mean like screenwriting? How do you pull it off without it seeming too "linear" or "railroady"?

 

[Fenris-77]

Do you mean like screenwriting? How do you pull it off without it seeming too "linear" or "railroady"?

Mostly I'm talking about bigger set pieces. In that context it's about changing the stakes or adding a twist somewhere in the middle. Reinforcements, environmental effects, or anything with a ticking clock. Not about railroading at all, just about narrative structure that ups the stakes and engages players. So, halfway through the warehouse fight, knock over a lantern and set the place on fire; or the evil wizard summons his demonic servant just as the players finish working their way through his minions; the temple starts to crumble and fall while the priests of the Frog God chant the crescendo of their Elder ritual; the anti-paladin disarms the fighter, sending his +3 sword skittering over the edge of the cliff. You get the idea. If you look at fight scenes in movies and shows there is usually one or two of these in any major fight scene - stuff that changes the balance of power or things that force the hero to make a major decision.

 

[Darth Solo]

Fenris-77, I'd love to play in your game.

 

[Fenris-77]

Fenris-77, I'd love to play in your game.

I don't think you could possibly have paid me a nicer compliment. Thanks man, I appreciate it.

 

[Darth Solo]

Problem solving for fights?
• an NPC who fights defensively: how do the PCs get a hit in?
• an NPC takes a hostage: how do the PCs win without sacrificing the hostage?
• an NPC uses the environment (high ground, rain, cover): how do the PCs overcome obstacles to win?