Viability of lower level foes

[Asmor]

Unfortunately, it looks like having 4 (never mind 5) players isn't going to happen. Smaller numbers of players means a smaller exp budget per encounter, so I've either got to use fewer enemies, use more minions, or use lower level enemies.

It seems like the best option is that last one. For example, a level 3 encounter for a party of 3 is 450 exp, which is just shy of a level 1 encounter for a party of 5.

So what I'm wondering is whether that level 1 encounter will still be interesting and challenging for a level 3 party? I guess at that level it's kind of silly, but it's a more pressing concern at higher levels. For example, a level 11 encounter for a group of 3 is approximately equal to a level 8 encounter for a group of 5 (1800 exp vs. 1750 exp, respectively).

Anyone have any experience yet in running 4e for small groups using normal quantities of lower level monsters instead of reduced quantities of similar level monsters?

 

[Xect]

I think one of the significant variables is your players' ability to create an effective party. If their min/max-fu is strong and their cooperation works, you might be able to send foes their own level against them.

Basically, I think you will have to try it out and see. Worst case scenario is a few boring encounters (or a TPK ) before you get it fixed.

 

[Boarstorm]

I think you'd be better off going the fewer opponents route than the lower-level route.

The reason for this is that ... well, the math, man, the math!

The lower level monsters aren't going to hit nearly often enough to be a challenge, and in turn the players will almost never miss.

 

[That One Guy]

Wrong thread. Wow. Awesome. My mistake.

 

[Harr]

Three level 2-3 monsters my friend. Replace one of those with 4 or 5 level 2-3 minions as desired.

My group is 4 guys but we often end up with three, what I do is I simply delete one of the monster tokens from the encounter and we're good to go haven't any any problems at all yet.

My one tip would be to prefer the 'brute or 'soldier' type monsters, that is first delete the ranged and spellcaster monsters until you pare it down to 3 (or 4 of you wanna give a challenge). This way the combat is still tight but not swingy.

Edit -> By the way, kinda unrelated but if among your 3 there's no cleric (mine are usually one defender two strikers), give em access to buy potions. Makes soooooo much difference. But only the number of members in the party + 1 amount of potions (so 4 potions for a party fo 3) or it gets too easy.