How to Choose a Great RPG Combat System

When diving into the world of tabletop RPGs, one of the most crucial elements of gameplay is combat. The RPG combat system you choose can shape the entire experience at your table, determining how fast-paced, strategic, or narrative-driven your battles will be. Whether you prefer cinematic duels or tactical fights, finding the right combat system is key to enhancing the immersion and fun of your game.

There Are Many Types of Combat Systems

Before choosing the perfect RPG combat system for your game, it’s important to understand the different styles available. So let’s explore some of the most common types.

Turn-Based Tactical Combat

This system, found in games like Dungeons & Dragons and Pathfinder, involves structured turns where players and enemies take actions based on initiative order. It often includes grids, movement rules, and an emphasis on strategy. If you’re into planning out maneuvers and maximizing your character’s abilities, this might be the system for you.

Narrative-Driven Combat

Some RPGs, like Fate or Blades in the Dark, favor storytelling over strict mechanics. In these systems, combat is more fluid, with players describing their actions and the Game Master (GM) interpreting outcomes. This style is great for groups that prioritize roleplay and cinematic action, over precise tactical movement.

Freeform or Rule-Light Combat

Games like Fiasco or Avatar: Legends RPG use loose mechanics where combat is handled quickly, often with simple rolls and minimal tracking of stats. This style is ideal for fast-paced, high-energy games where storytelling takes center stage.

Simulationist Combat

Some systems aim for realism, incorporating factors like hit locations, stamina management, and detailed weapon mechanics. Games like Rolemaster cater to those who enjoy deep mechanical complexity and realism in their battles.

Some of these combat forms, like Freeform and Narrative-Driven, are from Powered by the Apocalypse RPG System. You may want to check it out to see other games that we didn’t mention. Maybe it’ll inspire you! 

Choosing the Best RPG Combat System for Your Game

Selecting the right RPG combat system depends on several factors, including your group’s play style, experience level, and the type of story you want to tell. Here’s what to consider.

1. Feel your group’s vibe:

If your group enjoys strategy, a turn-based tactical system like D&D 5e might be the best fit. Those who prefer storytelling can benefit from a narrative-focused system like Fate, which enhances creativity and the theater kid inside you. 

Players who enjoy quick combat might prefer rule-light games like Avatar: Legends, keeping things fast-paced and engaging. If realism is a priority, consider a simulationist system like Rolemaster, which offers deep mechanical complexity.

2. Consider the Complexity Level

Newer players might feel overwhelmed by too many rules, so a streamlined system can be more inviting. On the other hand, experienced groups may enjoy mastering complex mechanics.

3. Align with Your Campaign Theme

The setting and tone of your campaign can also influence your choice. A dark and gritty world might benefit from a simulationist system, while a high-fantasy adventure could thrive with turn-based tactical combat.

4. Test Different Systems

If you’re unsure, try one-shots with different RPG combat systems to see what clicks with your group. Many systems have quick-start guides that let you sample mechanics without committing to a full campaign.

5. Mix and Match

It’s not always possible, due to each system having its own rules, mechanics, and equipment. But sometimes, you can mix some lore, characters, and even world settings from one system and the combat types from another system. However, mind you that once you choose one combat system, most of this system’s rules apply to all the other rules in the game. So it’s important to study what goes with what. 

Nonetheless, mixing and matching allows you and your players to test different ways and explore creativity. Besides, there’s nothing wrong with some homebrewed rules. It actually adds authenticity!

Enhancing Immersion with Miniatures

No matter which RPG combat system you pick, adding miniatures, scenarios, or even props to your players, can bring battles to pick exciting ways. And we happen to offer highly detailed miniatures and objects in our Bundle Store with dynamic poses and expressive designs that help players visualize the intensity of combat. 

And Why Would Miniatures Improve Experience?

In grid-based systems, miniatures provide a clear representation of positioning and movement, for those that need visualization to understand what’s happening in the battlefield (that would be me).

Additionally, seeing your character in action enhances engagement and helps you to pay attention to other players’ tactics. A little pizazz to your combat.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right RPG combat system can make or break your tabletop experience. By understanding the different styles of combat, considering your group’s play style, and adding immersive elements like miniatures, props, and scenarios, you can craft epic encounters that your players will remember. So, whether you prefer strategic battles or freeform storytelling, find the system that best suits your game and roll initiative!

Loot Studios can help you tell your story through highly detailed miniatures.Choose your favorite bundle from our previous releases or sign up for Fantasy or Sci-Fi to receive a new bundle every month. You can also check out some tips at our YouTube Channel.