Need advice to speed up combat...

[FlimFlam]

We also roll damage at the same time, but when you get multiple attacks, that isn't always viable. You need to designate which d20 is at your highest BAB and which damage dice go along with it. That can be more of a hassel.

Then there is situational damage, like sneak attacks. For example, if we attack a creature where we aren't sure if it qualifies for a sneak attack. We'd have to hold off the sneak attack dice to see if it qualifies or not.

But this is still something we generally do, when feasible.

 

[Voadam]

strict enforcement of time management in combat.

Only give people six realtime seconds to decide their action when it is their turn in combat. If they haven't decided by then they have delayed by default.

Have players be responsible to have relevant spell and feat info out and ready to quote to the DM or to hand to him to read immediately if he wants.

Use bigger(perhaps advanced) single monsters that are straightforward rather than multiple multiclassed individuals.

Lots of exactly the same cannon fodder is also realtively easy to keep track of.

 

[FlimFlam]

This is something the DM is considering, splitting the group.

Note: I'm not the DM, sorry if I gave that impression, heh.

But until then...

 

[Voadam]

For general game running of large groups.

Don't split the group or let individuals wander off to scout far ahead alone. Sitting around waiting while others play is not fun.

 

[ced1106]

Another thought: Have less combat! We routinely had nights in college for one-night games, and I found out that if I threw away the combat n/a to the plot, I could run a 64-page TSR module in one evening.


Cedric.
aka. Washu! ^O^

 

[bolen]

I use index cards and put them in the order of inititative. also make sure everyone is ready to act when it is his/her turn. Be strict about this.

also Have the mosters on note cards as well.

If you don't already use some kind of markers or figures.

Also be prepared for not every one showing up. with this many folks someone is bound to miss.

 

[CTD]

Get a computer at the game table for the DM and have him/her use DM's Familiar (found in the Electronic Aid's section here). It's combat tracker is a great speed assist.

 

[KnowTheToe]

roll damage at the same time you roll to hit.

This is a much bigger time saver than it sounds.