April 9, 2024

7 Ways To Speed Up Your Game

Dungeons & Dragons sessions are a blast, but they can sometimes drag on longer than expected. If you're seeking ways to keep your games exciting and streamlined without sacrificing depth, you're in the right place. Based on insightful discussions from the "hap19 SARA" podcast featuring Jim, Jason, and Joe, here are seven game-changing tips to turbocharge your gameplay and ensure every moment at the table is packed with thrills.

 1. Roll Damage with Your Attack Rolls

Save time by rolling your damage dice along with your attack roll. This simple tweak eliminates the need for separate rolls, speeding up combat turns and adding fluidity to your encounters.

2. Pair Newbies with Seasoned Players

Create a buddy system where new players are paired with experienced ones. This not only eases newcomers into the game but also keeps the flow smooth without burdening the Dungeon Master.

3. Embrace Spell Cards for Magic Management

Streamline spellcasting by using physical or digital spell cards. This handy reference tool allows players to swiftly access their spells, reducing downtime and keeping the magical moments flowing.

4. Opt for Average Monster Damage

Simplify combat by using average damage figures for monsters. This efficient method keeps non-critical encounters dynamic and prevents number crunching from slowing down the action.

5. Group Monsters for Efficient Combat

Speed up large-scale battles by grouping monsters' actions together. Rolling attacks and applying damage collectively for monster groups maintains excitement without bogging down the pace.

6. Share Target Numbers Openly

Enhance decision-making by transparently sharing target numbers (TN) for combat and skill challenges. Clear communication of goals reduces guesswork and ensures smoother gameplay.

7. Minimize Device Distractions

Encourage focus and immersion by limiting unnecessary device usage at the table. Physical character sheets and rulebooks help cut distractions, fostering a more engaged and connected gaming experience.

These expert tips, honed from years of gaming and podcasting expertise, offer practical solutions to common RPG slowdowns. Implementing even a few of these strategies can transform your sessions into dynamic and memorable adventures, where every moment counts towards an epic tale. Remember, it's not about rushing through the story but crafting meaningful and unforgettable experiences at every turn of the dice.