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Message: <blockquote data-quote="Rhenny" data-source="post: 6861677" data-attributes="member: 18333">Generally, I don't even bother with xp budget.   I tend to design what seems natural for a given situation paying attention to CR level of the creatures.   I'm running Princes of the Apocalypse now and sometimes I only have 3 or 4 players.  I've been using the module as is and it is scary, but the PCs are adapting their tactics and avoiding fights when they are unsure of their chances for success.  I love that type of play.Also, often, I err on the softer side, but have contingencies at times.  For example, if I really want more challenge, I'll have some reinforcements show up.  On the other hand, because sometimes an encounter can become mega deadly because it is what would naturally occur in the given area or because the noise of one encounter draws in others so that 2 or more encounters become 1 big encounter, I don 't sweat it when the group wants to take a short rest.  If they survive 1 or 2 really big fights they deserve a rest.  lol.Right when 5e launched, I adapted Ghosts of Dragonspear Castle, and I basically found that the party could handle everything that was in the adventure with 2 less levels than suggested with playtest rules.  I also got really comfortable running sessions for 3 or 4 players rather than 5 or 6.  The larger groups of PCs really need much more to challenge them.</blockquote>