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<blockquote data-quote="kouk" data-source="post: 4383288" data-attributes="member: 55992">The opposed check makes sense and is quick, but you still have the issue of arbitrarily deciding something as the DM; in that case the distance the encounter starts. It does however, basically eliminate the possibility that both sides could be surprised at once, as even a tie would represent seeing each other at the same time at some distance.A party would be free to all have longbows and still have a chance of hitting with them, yes. However, the times when there would be that kind of opportunity probably don't really outweigh the hassle of carrying a bow and keeping track of arrows, nor would melee characters be too keen on loosening their shields. Lots of character concepts just wouldn't want to carry a bow they can't use well in the first place.It would probably be more effective for the PCs without the superior range to Ready actions to attack when they are able, assuming the enemy doesn't just run away. If an enemy will run away, it doesn't really matter if everyone is shooting at him, it is unlikely the fight can end in one round when only one or two members are actually proficient and have powers that work with the bow.Almost always better to close to a comfortable distance for all PCs.</blockquote>

[QUOTE="kouk, post: 4383288, member: 55992"] The opposed check makes sense and is quick, but you still have the issue of arbitrarily deciding something as the DM; in that case the distance the encounter starts. It does however, basically eliminate the possibility that both sides could be surprised at once, as even a tie would represent seeing each other at the same time at some distance. A party would be free to all have longbows and still have a chance of hitting with them, yes. However, the times when there would be that kind of opportunity probably don't really outweigh the hassle of carrying a bow and keeping track of arrows, nor would melee characters be too keen on loosening their shields. Lots of character concepts just wouldn't want to carry a bow they can't use well in the first place. It would probably be more effective for the PCs without the superior range to Ready actions to attack when they are able, assuming the enemy doesn't just run away. If an enemy will run away, it doesn't really matter if everyone is shooting at him, it is unlikely the fight can end in one round when only one or two members are actually proficient and have powers that work with the bow. Almost always better to close to a comfortable distance for all PCs. [/QUOTE]

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