Random Encounter Don't Have to Suck | Simple D12 System for D&D 5e

NEW Simple D12 System for How to Run Random Encounters in Dungeons and Dragons. This Homebrew for using Random Roll Tables for your Social Encounters and Combat in D&D. Here is my personal DC Method" I used and loved for years. ⏬ More Content ⏬
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[@Piqipeg]

This is an interesting method, love that the players gets to be involved in the process. Just want to add that all encounters doesn't have to be a combat encounter. I like to have traveling merchants/people for rp moments, environmental encounters for some discovery. Try to use all three pillars of TTRPGs

[@TheDungeonCoach]

O I talked about that in last weeks video, I 100% agree! 💜💜

[@vincejester7558]

Do we get to add combat into social situations then?

[@Piqipeg]

@@vincejester7558 that's always up to the players. As long as they understand that their actions have consequences.

[@vincejester7558]

@@Piqipeg The bards always complain when I start hitting people during the 32nd verse of their improv love ballad to the rotund bar maid.

[@fakjbf3129]

With four players rolling d12s the chance that you would get a random encounter would be 1-(11/12)^4 = 0.294 so your 30% estimate was basically spot on.

[@TheDungeonCoach]

Omg thank you for that! Brilliant mathematician right there!

[@End3r97]

Came here to say this. I'm also going to explain the stats in case someone wants to learn or measure the probability when they are changing the die sizes You just do the probability that none of the player's numbers match yours. Each player has a 1/12 chance to match, so 11/12 to not be a match. Each player matching you is independent so you can multiply them (11/12)^4=0.706 = 70.6% that no player matches and you don't have a random encounter. Subtract from 1 to get the probability that you DO have an encounter and you get 1-0.706=0.294 like OP said. If you use d20s instead then it would be 1-(19/20)^4=18.5% Using d6s: 1-(5/6)^4=51.8% Using d12s with 5 party members: 1-(11/12)^5=35.3% Hopefully you can see how to substitute for any other die or party size and understand the underlying stats a bit too!

[@davidmc8478]

I don’t think this is right is it? All the rolls are independent, it’s not a sequence and the order or number of matches doesn’t matter. Also you aren’t looking for precisely one match you are looking for any number of matches (unless you take this to the next level) Each roll adds a 1/12 chance of a match so it’s a simple 1/12 + 1/12 + 1/12 + 1/12 = 1/3

[@fakjbf3129]

@@davidmc8478 Probabilities are multiplicative, not additive. For example, let's replace the dice with coins. You pick heads and have two players flip coins. By your method it would be 1/2 + 1/2 = 1 so they are _guaranteed_ to flip a heads. But we know it's possible for them to both flip tails, so that can't be right. By my method it would be 1-(1/2)^2 = 3/4, and if you look at the full range of possibilities (HH, TT, HT, TH) you can see that that checks out.

[@nickpeterson8659]

Thank you all. If anyone else is interested to grok the probability curve, here is the chance of encounter for different numbers of player rolled d12s (assuming the DM is only rolling one). 1) 8.35% 2) 15.98% 3) 22.97% 4) 29.39% 5) 35.27% 6) 40.67% 7) 45.61% 8) 50.14% 9) 54.30% 10) 58.11% 11) 61.60% 12) 64.80% 13) 67.73% 14) 70.42% 15) 72.88% I think it all looks pretty great. You could have them roll a d12 for each companion/hireling. If two players roll the same number (but no one matches the DM) then I would have the characters find a clue related to that entry on the random encounter table, signs of the creature having passed through this way, or sounds in the distance maybe. Sneaking characters still roll (I have some environmental effects, clues, keys, and weird stuff on my encounter charts... and also sneaky adventurers smell delicious), they just don't get noticed by whatever it is passing by. If the sneaky types are scouting ahead then they might be able to warn the party or at least get in a backstab if it attacks a friend. Fantastic. I'm excited to try this out.

[@tonyc5605]

I love when my players give me feedback that our games are getting better and better every week asking if I'm spending the entire week prepping.. yeah sure... I'm not ripping off ideas left and right from my favorite Dm's.. thanks again for all these awesome videos man. So helpful

[@nathanielsmith7807]

I’m so glad I found your videos! My players love to roll the dice every chance they get and these videos give so many options for the players to be involved. Thanks for taking the time to make these!

[@airdragon11studios]

Love this!! Definitely using this!! Thanks as always coach!!!

[@MegaTyler93]

I just pre-ordered Alkanders, can’t wait!

[@rangleme]

Hey Dungeon Coach - AWESOME! I'm loving the potential, the levers, and the epic drama created by this simple yet powerful system. So very cool, and thanks for sharing.

[@talesoftableiii1584]

this is such a cool idea, i love the tension building!

[@dylancox631]

Love this random encounter system! Going to play with the two players matching, maybe thats a secondary way they get an encounter? Matching your number OR matching each other. And if all 3 match, deadly encounter. Looking forward to the book, Merry Christmas man!

[@TheDungeonCoach]

Ooooo I love where your mind is going!

[@TheBoneBrew]

This i think is better keying it off the players

[@chrisadams5168]

I would say the matching player/players get the perception rolls to spot the thing if two players match each other not the dm their too focused on each other to notice what's coming if they match the dm then they gain advantage on the perception or when appropriate iniative

[@jordanbaker3381]

This has just changed my game nights and my players show more interest in traveling. Thanks!

[@easternshorescreenprinting5426]

Love this, added this to my game asap!

[@Frederic_S]

The videos are getting better and better.

[@Iautocorrect]

Another banger vid, coach!

[@schylerfontenot7358]

Been using this system since i saw this video, and it is SO fun as the DM!

[@liamcage7208]

This sounds really good, I will have to give it a try.

[@nickiekalla6766]

You have really inspired my D&D GM style. Thank you!

[@TheDungeonCoach]

Thanks for that! Love to be of any help I can! 💜

[@johnathanrhoades7751]

I personally really like the 1d8+1d4 encounter table and a second 1d6 table that gives cntext to the main encounter table. That gives a pretty flat curve on the table and keeps the context of the encounter interesting. For example, you roll "goblins" on the first table, and "returning home" on the second table. Or "goblins" on the first table and "dead" on the second table. And keeping the "is there an encounter" and "what encounter is it" separate personally. Though I also like the different dice sizes.

[@peterslupek6561]

I'm going to try this on Thursday.

[@roninanwar]

I fricken love this! Thank you!

[@user-xk9cn2vd2f]

Great idea!

[@mattsteinberg2083]

Bro I have been consuming an insane amount of content trying to prep for my west marches campaign. This is far and away my favorite way to handle random encounters so far!

[@WolfmanXD]

Totally doing this.

[@JackOfHearts42]

I like this system! Matching player rolls on a group check is a cool mechanic that could maybe used in other ways too.

[@mikepowers8607]

This is literally the first YT video I ever took notes on.

[@TheDungeonCoach]

That speaks to me! I used to do the same! (still do sometimes too :P)

[@przemysawjozwiak144]

Love it! I don't have any idea for now on what to do with players matching their dice without matching DM dice but still thinking and maybe later I would edit something ;)

[@TheDungeonCoach]

Hahaha awesome! Yea stumped me too!

[@arthurwdavis]

I love D12s, I have to work this in to my game. I'm working out a hex crawl using 3d printed tiles that works a lot like Betrayal at House on the Hill. Using the players rolls to trigger and define the focus of the RND ENCs is very similar to the Haunt roll, and I like that. I can define each tile with danger level and travel times that add or change the dice rolled when moving through the hex. I've got some things where if they roll good they could maybe find a shortcut and reduce time traveling the given hex or tunnel from one hex to another bypassing those in between. But even without the hex crawl I think I'll start working this into my game prep.

[@JessicaJones-ko9zo]

Love the idea of building tension with adding d12s to a jar. I would like to hear an example of that.

[@samuelboone7495]

Merry Christmas guys!

[@lashwrithe01]

I like that the more people you have in the party the more dice are present. This would simulate more noise, a larger camp site, etc.

[@stickblade]

I use a variable d# encounter system based on how dangerous the area they are in is, much like you mentioned. If two players match, they either become the focus of the encounter or I instigate a social situation between the two players that play into their backgrounds in order to encourage roleplaying among the party.

[@nxla6836]

I'm looking forward to the book. So much stuff that I will likely throw at my group that will change up my style and keep them on their toes. :) As for players matching, if the roll is low I might add another creature or what have you because the fates are unhappy with them. If high, they may get an extra reward. Kind of looking at it as though the dice gods are speaking. Whole group rolls the same thing at we match.......Well, hold on to your seats.

[@TheDungeonCoach]

Hahahaha the entire group matching??? Wow never thought of that!

[@eltrox1]

Thought about 2 players matching as I started this video, nice to see you thinking about it as well. You could have neutral-good encounters when they match, neutral-bad encounters when one matches your dice, and real bad ones if three dice show the same number. There could be bad and good ones simultaneously. Might work good with different dice. Imagine a difficult area, haunted mountains, the players each roll a D4, they rolled 1,1,3,4. Now you roll openly, they know two 1 are something good(discovering a shortcut) but if you roll a third 1, shit is about to happen(instead they meet a undead orc warband. If you rolled a 3 or 4 instead, they would find the shortcut, but now it's blocked by some undead, slowly rising from the snow that previously covered them. Love it

[@eltrox1]

Also I just registered on Patreon to support and get more amazing ideas💡

[@Ty-ri7dy]

This is actually pretty good. I think I'll use it tonight for a new area the players have gotten to.

[@TheDungeonCoach]

Hahah yea!? Awesome! Let me know how it goes!

[@Ty-ri7dy]

@@TheDungeonCoach We ended up not playing. Ha! Just exchanging gifts and talking. But it gives me time to think more about using it for our next session. I'm excited.

[@mikemehalek2537]

Share a video all about who Alkander is and the lore that surrounds him

[@TheDungeonCoach]

Ooooo another person asking for this, I’ll have to put this on “the list” 👍🏼

[@turfinat0r]

I've been using a modified d12 system since you first showed this thing off (at least the first time when I was paying attention). Since I have a fluctuating amount of players, I use some stuff from Out of the Abyss for generating encounters.

[@TheDungeonCoach]

Yea this is my updated one, so you probably remembering my first version! Good stuff!!

[@CaliforniaPaladin]

I’ve adapted and modified your system for a DCC west marches campaign. I have the characters roll a die based on character level, and the DM rolls a die based on the threat level of the hex. For the players only, the highest value matches all higher values rolled by the DM. For example, if a player rolls a d8 and the DM rolls a d10, if the player rolls an 8, there is an encounter if the DM rolls an 8, 9, or 10. There are also four roles in the group, and each player’s roll is subtracted from the DM’s roll. Depending on their role in the party, the resulting difference means different things: for the navigator, the difference indicates the direction and magnitude of variance if they fail their navigation check. So, if they want to go north, and they fail their navigation check, this difference will provide the DM with how far off they are. For the scout, the difference determines the proximity of encounters, and who sees who first. For the quartermaster, the difference determines whether they forage enough during the day to feed people, and how good a spot they find for their camp at night. In every case, a higher positive difference provides better results, so it pays to roll a higher die (be more experienced), and the higher the die the DM rolls, the more likely for bad outcomes for the party. I like generating lots of results from a single die roll. I plan to introduce magic items and gear that will give players bonuses to rolls or increase their die.

[@draggo69]

Nice!

[@beowulf.reborn]

So here is something you could add to this. If *Two or More* of the Players' Dice match, and then you Roll a Match too, then it can Trigger a super special, or unique event.

[@MrGreensweightHist]

I haven't used Random Encounters since 2e, but I do like the sound of your system

[@jacoboverstreet8553]

I do something similar. great minds think alike! My method is that random encounters always happen on a 1 and I just change which dice I use. So low stakes are D20s and high stakes are D4s. I also use this to decide dynamic events in dungeons. So on a 1 the assassin catches up to the party or the roof caves in starting with a D12 and going down to a D4. It’s worked really well so far.

[@Anon-qp3kt]

Sick t-shirt!

[@xicarus8141]

Ayyy i use this system as "luck checks"! I'm definitely gonna start rolling multiple dice to build tension xD This system also works for lots of things, eg have your party roll luck checks if they're trying to find rare magic items on top of the other loot, deciding who gets picked up by the roc, etc.

[@Ixnatifual]

I love how so many DMs like to use that old HeroQuest screen for D&D.

[@mchisolm0]

Really love this system. Did you say you had shared the encounter tables you use? I would be interested in seeing them, and could not find them.

[@couver73]

Here's an idea for if more than one player matched each other. I would kinda see it as a bonus encounter that gives both characters a chance to get to know one another in some capacity depending on the type of encounter that involves them. Obviously, it would affect both of them if the DM matched that number. The DM could then roll another die for a more general encounter on the party in addition to what's been given to them. Seems kinda wonky but that's what I came up with off the top of my head.

[@TheDungeonCoach]

Ooooo great idea!!! Wow

[@Shamrock797]

I’ve been using a d12 random encounter generator similar to this for several years now. I only have one player roll, and if they match it’s a Major Encounter, while if they are one number off (such as I roll a 4, and the player rolls a 3 or 5) then it’s a Minor Encounter, usually non-combat.

[@DaDunge]

3:00 I'd say any matching number should trigger it. Either of two players roll the same or if they roll the same as you. Making it possible for more than one random encounter to happen at once.

[@davidmc8478]

This is elegant and simple, I love it. I have never seen a die changing mechanic I have liked before but this is perfect. Players matching each other could be an encounter happening to a NPC they know (the ponies at the cave entrance get stolen) or an encounter they miss (the party come across a half eaten corpse and dragon spoor). Players matching each other and matching the dm would be a catastrophe - earthquake, dragon strike, magical storm. Maybe happening to the PCs, maybe elsewhere in the world.

[@The_Flamekeepers]

Love the tshirt

[@Jack_OLanterns]

Man, I thought random encounters were pretty cool. This makes them super cool.

[@JeffandBCProductions]

0:02 How dare you speak that accursed name, which has been buried by The Great (DM)s of old? Great video! Will have to consider for my own campaign, which starts in around 3 days! It's the follow-on campaign to my initial 4-year-campaign. I plan to change things up this time around, and I think these types of encounters will add much more flavor!

[@stordarth]

I think I'd let players that match be able to discuss a team-up strategy based on what the encounter is about. If there's an assassin after both of them, I might throw both of them into a short skill challenge to see if they become aware of the impending strike, and if both succeed, maybe they pull off some feint and double team strike that takes the assassin down. Or if the encounter is something like a merchant, have each make a diplomacy and intimidate check and see if they can 'good cop, bad cop' the merchant into offering a discount. I really like the matching idea, as well as the varying parameters. I used to just roll a single die but if I get a group together again I will run this, or something very close to it.

[@howirunit2033]

I think the way I'll handle it is if the 2 or more players match with each other (but NOT with the DM's roll) then they get an additional "bye" in terms of frequency of encounter checks per additional matching die. So for example, if encounter rolls in this area happen every 4 hours and the DM rolls a 4 and two of the players roll a 6, then nothing happens for this and the NEXT time. If three players matched (again without matching the DM) then a third instance is by-passed without threat or unusual occurrence. Perhaps if everyone at the table matches there is some kind of boon they get. However, if more than one player matches the DM the deadliness of the encounter should go up by a degree, maybe more monsters or higher CR monsters. Perhaps if the table is set up with worse things being lower, every additional match to the DM's roll means you drop down the result by one.

[@jriggan]

👍In the case of players rolling matching numbers, the dm could adjust the encounter table for the next encounter check to favor that number: Replacing a slot (or slots) on the table with the now prevalent number of the players’ matching encounter type. That’s on a missed check, obvi. 🤘On a multi player encounter success, the encounter could be leveled up💕. Not necessarily would it be doubled, of course. This would take some qualitative work on the dm’s part, because not all encounter types are equivalent. This part should be given rather a lot of leeway so things don’t get quickly unbearable.

[@schylerfontenot7358]

I’d love to see whatever resource you use to pick from when making these d12 encounter tables 👀

[@jakeand9020]

Good method, I adjusted it a bit, the die is twice the number of players. So a party of 4 uses 8 sided dice. Instead of the number rolled determining the encounter, the number of matches determines the results. So, one match means something simple, for example a group of refugees in need of food/supplies. Two matches might be a similar group asking the players to either escort them to (relative) safety, or clear the village they just fled from. Three matches might be a group of refugees being pursued by a group of goblins with a mini-boss chieftain. Four matches might be that group of refugees fleeing from the dragon intent on eating them (and you if it finds you...) All these give the players choices with the risks/rewards increasing with the number of matches. One match is something quick and simple to create the illusion of a living world instead of a lifeless wasteland. Since with the number of sides involved a single match is fairly common, you don't want it to be anything too involved or that will take a long time, unless the players choose to make it such with some RP, or exploration to find the base those goblins that attacked them came from. Completely up to the players how long it takes, depending on their nature and game preferences. Two matches is exponentially less common, but still not exactly rare, so you want an encounter that might force the players to make the choice between quick or longer. Three matches is very rare, which leads to encounters with real stakes and hard choices, even life or death, and will result in a longer encounter either way. All four matches is virtually not going to happen, so it's got to be something pretty dang special, and preferably more memorable than "that time we all rolled the same number." Like "that time we saved those villagers from that dragon" or "that time we watched that dragon kill those poor defenseless villagers."

[@ianparra7550]

I've heard of this random encounter system before and I actually had the idea of different tiers of encounters depending on the number that is rolled. For example, if the dm rolls 1-4, and it matches a d12 roll that a player made for an encounter, then there will be a hostile encounter. 5-8 would be a neutral encounter. And 9-12 would be a positive encounter. Use this how you will dungeon masters :)

[@MarkHolmberg]

If players numbers match each other, than it's two assassins from competing guilds trying to get the bounty.

[@ts25679]

I feel like there should be riders for those times when you match with more than one player. I thought perhaps roll an extra die for each match, but depending on what is on your table that could get messy real quick. Perhaps when you have two players roll the same number you could role on a separate party table? I'm not sure about your tables but I've found getting players to role play with each other challenging because we're in a rush to get to the next story beat or monster slaughter. So on the party table you could have role play/improve prompts. Like a minor disagreement, petty squabble, heart-to-heart, "how the hell do you do that?" (asking the player to describe a facet of their character like "what does it feel like to wildshape?"), "why did you become an_____?", moral/ethical/alignment conflicts and so on. I'm not a theatre geek nor have I taken any improve classes so I'm sure you guys can think of something better, this is just what sprang to mind.

[@CooperAATE]

Hmm... I use a d6 system, let's see what you're using

[@bluefyr22]

Really fun idea. Much better than d20

[@mikemckinney7031]

One method to roll up random encounters is do it before the game session begins. For example, roll up the results of a random encounter or two (monsters, NPCs, Evil Boss minions, you get the picture) and why they would be in a given location and keep this result on the side during your game play. Then during the game, the only random die rolling would be if it actually happens. My friend's and I used this method to same time, rolling a number of times, then rolling what they encounter, then look them up for their statistics, ect. If you only have a three-hour session for example, this method can help you make the most of your game time.

[@jamesrizza2640]

I like the interactivity of your system were the players get to participate in the random encounter. What's more, the idea of the DM rolling his dice last in front of the players, [with the players understanding what the roll is for], is quite a novel idea and would definitely add suspense to the encounter. I also like the variables, using lower or higher dice to increase or decrease the odds is a nice touch as well. As for players matching the dice, the first thing that comes to my mind is as a multiplier. If they roll low and two of the players match, [and lower rolls are rarer bad encounters], then make the encounter even more dangerous, by adding a hazard, more creatures, a trap what have you. if they rolled high and matched, [and higher means more favorable to the players], then make that encounter more beneficial. Maybe the instead of finding a chest full of silver, it is now a chest full of gold or platinum. Perhaps instead of a potion of healing they find a small cache of these potions, etc etc.

[@aqacefan]

My (current) encounter system is a hybrid of the CR system from DMG (d12 + d8 for the nature of the encounter) and Matthew Colville's probability (11 or 12 on a d12 that a player rolls).

[@przemysawjozwiak144]

could you write something more about that two systems?

[@aqacefan]

@@przemysawjozwiak144 Matthew Colville (another DM on various sites) has his players roll 1d12; on an 11 or 12, a random encounter happens. Appendix B of the Dungeon Master's Guide has charts for various terrain types, and pp. 85-87 discuss random encounters and an example of a chart using 1d8+1d12 to generate those encounters.

[@przemysawjozwiak144]

@@aqacefan I see. Thank you very much. And Merry encounters for you 😉

[@vincejester7558]

@@aqacefan Why not a 6 on a single D6? that's a 17% chance of encounter. Throw the 5 on a D6 as yer noncombat encounter. A D6 encounter chart for each, and you get the exact stats of any of these modified systems. Is the allure the players getting to throw dice?

[@buttat849]

I like it. I would probably start with a d20 and shrink the dice every time no encounter happens and then reset when they do. Just to up the tension. Also if 2 player rolls matches i could use encounters my players wrote in advance (with a few guidlines of course i.e. one good one bad or whatever) they would have a blast and would actually want them to trigger.

[@feugofox42]

For me, if the players match each other, you could do one of a couple of things: - You could have an encounter that triggers outside of the group's knowledge surrounding those two individuals (the two players that rolled 11s are called away in the middle of the night for reasons they don't quite realise) - You could do the inverse, and they miss out on a random encounter, or part of it (they rolled a 5: bandits attack the group in a surprise round, everyone is jumped except those two) - You could play doubles. If you roll a 9 and another player rolled a 9, but then 2 other players rolled a 4 (so 4,8,4,9,[9] for example), maybe the random encounter is that they come across a scene where the 4 & 9 scenario is happening independently of them, and they have to intervene to progress. Maybe they have to pick a side, maybe they will be attacked on two fronts, who knows?

[@joshbirks2459]

Hey Coach, I know you get a boost when folks take your ideas and adapt them to their own game play. So, I wanted to share how I am using an adaptation of your Random Encounter system. Quick context: my players stumbled into the Shadowfell in the midst of their epic quest to save the material plane. Stuck here they have been searching for a way back. They learned of an ancient ritual known by a clan of frog people that allows a creature to travel the dreamlands back to a chosen destination - including across planes. Here is where the mechanic has been adapted...while in the dreamlands I've designed a dream for each player that ties to their backstory. How do I determine which character is the current focus of the dreamlands... I use a d6 to determine using the same rules as your random encounter system. Each player roles and if they match my die then they are the focus...if not then I have a default dream seed to us... I hope you enjoy this adaptation of your system. I wanted to share because it demonstrates another way to use this all roll and compare to the DM's die system. Keep on keeping on! Love your work!

[@King_Hodop]

If my players both rolled the same number on the d12 random encounter check, I would give them some kind of "in tune" bonus to the next encounter they dealt with. Maybe convert a d8 help die they use it on each other into a d12? That feels thematic.

[@ddtalks2821]

(0:56) - d12 : Any thoughts on augmenting the encounters based on player matching (9:57), multiple matches or triples/quads ? - Player matching: Have an encounter if either the DM matches OR the players match? Higher rate of encounters. - Multiple matches: The DM matches a 4 with a player and 2 other players match a 9. Combining both encounters into the same encounter? - Triple/Quads: In this case, you up the difficulty of the encounter. A single pair match keeps the encounter at 'Medium' difficulty (as originally designed). A Triple (DM 4, Player A 4, and Player B 4) means now the encounter goes from 'Medium' to 'Hard'. Or a Quad, the difficulty increases to 'Deadly'? (8:54) - 'Or are they...' : Also, the encounter doesn't have to happen right then. Your example of the assassin now following them is good, but also, the encounter may happen once they get into town as the Guards have a warrant for their arrest. Or perhaps, while they are traveling in the woods, they roll and gain an encounter, but the encounter happens the next day after the long rest. Using this, on occasion, could help to add tension/mystery/or even wondering IF they had an encounter (dice rolled behind the scenes). Maybe there was no match? or maybe it just happens later... or MAYBE you get two encounters back to back?

[@hannibalmendez5128]

Hey DC What if when 2 or more players match each other, they have an in character RP dialogue or interaction. Set something up as DM to remind the two characters to something they have in common. This can ignite an in game RP conversation that can even pull other PCs into the RP and have a big character bonding moment or talk

[@marcosbittar]

I made some math and found great results: Using the following rules: Every player runs a d12 that, if it matches the DMs D12, a encounter happens The encounter has a 1/5 chance of being easy, moderarw, hard, deadly or good. With 4 players there is around 22% chance a encounter happens and it is not something good, it raises to 26% with 5 players. So... yeah, i am using this when my players take a short rest in a dungeon. I dont know what I'll do about long rests yet (need to think about the probabilities i Want). To simulate the 1/5 probability roll a d10 and every pair of numbers count for something, or the same with a d20 but every four numbers count for something. I dont know if we should keep the good encounter at the bottom or the top though, what do u guys think?

[@joshuaturner4602]

If multiple PC's rolled the same number, provided it made sense it could be really tense to have multiple instances of the encounter. Like if your six man party decided to LR inside the goblins fort you roll the d4 encounter dice and you roll a one and 3 of your players rolled a one, then the 10 man goblin patrol that would have found them is now 30 goblins. The shear weight of action economy would make the encounter scary. 3 dire wolf riding goblins with Lance's + 3 dire wolves +4 shortbow goblins in the back make a pretty formidable 10 man unit, triple that and now your PC's are fighting for their lives. Esp because it's a night ambush which means your frontline tanks will be without amour, and if they used the tiny hut when the dome ends the spellcasters won't have prepared spells yet which means your wizard will not be ready to go either. It's super mean I love it

[@DaDunge]

10:30 I'd make it a separate table that leaned into that there will be two people involved. Could be as little as one character walks into the other or next tonight one of them can't sleep because the other is snoring.

[@latenight5457]

@The Dungeon Coach how can I get Alkander’s Almanac of All Things right now?

[@lukamtc9188]

6:02 DM: "It's the Ogre's turn... it attacks." * rolls a 2 to hit DM: "Seventeen."

[@noxiousbones]

I need to see your encounter table. I know I want interesting encounters, but idk how to make that. Making the table is the hardest part of prep. Anytime I have a good idea, every other thing ends up being a variation of that same thing… which is lame. I need help, like a chef looking for new ingredients I need entry’s for my tables. I know how I want to develop the flavor and how not to burn the dish, but I’m always struggling to change up the menu.

[@rubenmon5932]

I feel like this is almost exactly the method DM's lair proposed in a video some time ago. Was it inspired by that?

[@guamae]

This sounds very similar to the Dungeon Dude's methods. They have all the players roll a d6 (there are only 3), and for every 1 rolled "something bad" happens, and for every 6 rolled "something good happens" [31s means the GREATEST CHALLENGE in the LAND is attacking them, a 1 and a 6 mean they run into a fight between an enemy faction, and an allied faction]. I like the extra layer of mystery by having the DM roll randomly for the "target number"... but there's also that meta-game with how DD does it, that the players Know something is gonna happen when one declares "1"... It's also neat having the DM's roll correspond to the result on the random encounter table.... Trying to come up with a system I like for Night-Time encounters in my Curse of Strahd campaign... I want to drive-home the fact and reason why no one in Barovia goes out at night.... I also like the idea that the number of dice a given player rolls is dependent on their stealth check....

[@PapaSmerf008]

Maybe if the players match each other you could spotlight those characters. If no encounter, then they can roleplay for a moment during travel... if there is an encounter maybe they are targeted by a trap or ability at the start of combat.

[@glitchedpixelscriticaldamage]

2021 and this video even in max quality looks like it's recorded with a Motorola Phone camera from the 2005.

[@YourBoyNobody530]

What I often do is have a massive backlog of premade encounters which take place in a variety of environments, settings, and themes which are created with enough flexibility to be used at a variety of party levels and compositions. Then what I do is roll to see if they trigger some of the encounters I've picked out for them, and finally I give them the encounter. Considering it takes me 10 to 15 minutes to create a single encounter I can typically end up with a backlog of over 50 encounters for a given campaign then my girl friend throws them away because she decided she didn't like my hobby all of a sudden... we aren't dating anymore.

[@TheClericCorner]

Love the smaller die = more suspense!! But that means there are less overall encounters in more dangerous areas? D4 areas have only 4 options while D12 has 12? Have you added more anyways?

[@TheDungeonCoach]

This is very true, I should have mentioned this! You can roll a d12 after someone matches if you want a larger pool of options BUT this is why I organize my d12 tables from BAD TO GOOD, so 1-4 on that d12 table are BAD already. And no need to create more work to need lots more BAD encounters, after a while they start to steal the cool ideas from the other ones If that makes sense lol

[@darthveritos7323]

I really like your system Coach. I'm currently running the dungeon dudes system for encounters but may swap things up with my players to try yours out as well. Who knows, maybe after I've tried both I'll be able to make my own system I like after learning about what I liked from each of yours. Oh and I DID IT COACH!!! Sorry had to make the joke, but I'm excited cuz I finally secured my pre-order for Alkandars Almanac. Can't wait to see what all you have in there. As a fully homebrew DM myself, I absolutely adore your work and dedication. ❤

[@noffpoppin]

Where can I find that awesome shirt?

[@sarabjorkgren6915]

💜💜💜

[@catastropheoverclock]

Ideas: Make players roll extra d12s for being in a dangerous area or for traveling more recklessly. Let the party find treasure if they roll triples. Let each player roll an extra d12 to forage for treasure, if the party rolls triples let those players find some for themselves

[@zwpeters]

Two players roll the same number: only they see a shooting star and can make a wish…or they both see a ghost and are frightened (odd/even)

[@kbeazy_3050]

Math: The dms roll does not effect the math as the value is arbitrary when considering one dice is rolled. We can assume the dm rolled a 1. The question becomes what are the odds that at least 1 of x players rolls a 1 on a d12. With 11/12 chances of failure, and if being an independent roll, we can safely use the formula 1-(11/12)^x For 3 players, 23% For 4 players, 29.4% (good estimate Coach) For 5, 35.3% For 6, 40.7% Edit: To extrapolate the equation for variable dice sizes. Let n be the largest dice face. 1-((n-1)/n)^x

[@Blobby3822]

The problem is not to have a random encounter or not, the problem is what the random encounter is.

[@Piqipeg]

I try to prepare a few encounters beforehand, then when I need a random encounter I pick (or roll for) which they get to face.

[@primeemperor9196]

If players match each other, you could have one of them roll again or say that the random encounter happens, since they match.

[@kbeazy_3050]

Weird side effect of these rules: Dm rolls a 12. Paladin, fails stealth check, rolls 2d12, rolls a 12. Dm: *awards the failing player a reward*

[@williamknox6648]

Wait didn't this video get posted a couple weeks ago with a D6 instead?

[@vincejester7558]

WotC doesn't want you to do random encounters. They want you to buy another book full of NPCs.

[@Teneban]

I don't like involving the players in encounter rolls for a few reasons: 1) this makes it feel like encounters are a game system, when I want the players to think we're telling a story 2) my players are SLOOOW, getting all of them to roll a d12 would take a good minute, I swear. So this system is not for me, but mine shares a lot with yours. I do have lower numbers = worse encounters, and I do use dices of different sizes to represent how dangerous the area is. Only difference is, I roll two dice, get two results, and then improvise whatever the relationship between those two results are. Bandits + merchants? Maybe the party sees the remnants of a merchant caravan which has been attacked by bandits. Maybe the party meets a merchant on the road and they both get attacked together by bandits later down the line. Maybe the merchant is actually a bandit using a cover. etc... I'll just come up with something interesting that will have the kind of pacing I'm looking for. These rolls are less "random encounter rolls" and more "random prompts for cool encounters".

[@Simkitty]

Love his tee shirt. 😸 =^..^=

[@JoeySoul]

I do a random encounter system that changes each time. I create however many random encounters I can, usually 16 so we can use the d16 one of my players have. This is usually 2 encounters of each difficulty level, 4 exploration and 4 roleplay encounters. 1 per unit of measurement for the travel, commonly 1 day but that's because my players have been traveling 5 or 6 days at a time. I also may ignore the roll and choose or ignore the roll and grant a free travel day.

[@jasonp9508]

I like to build random tables as d12+d8. Gives a nice trapezoidal probability distribution of outcomes. [The middle five items on the chart are equal chance (>8%), and the two ends taper off to near 1% chance of a "2" or a "20".] I got this idea back in 1E DnD--it's in the back of Monster Manual II, 1983. Clever departure from d% tables. A nice trigger I've used for a random encounter is each FAIL on one of your Skill Challenges! (Thx again for introducing me to these.) Random tables like this are a nice way to do nasty interesting things to the party without making it seem like the DM is being mean. For example, to have one character contract a disease, or get mugged, or for the BBEG to eavesdrop on their plans, or whatever you want to put on that table... Improbable things can and do happen, and it's better if it's the dice's fault and not yours!!

[@stephanshaw6201]

I didn't even know we were supposed to roll for encounters, I've just been making shit happen, newb DM mistakes

[@TheDungeonCoach]

NO NO NO! This is just an option, I throw shit at my players ALL THE TIME. This is just an option for you to spice up the game for YOU as well lol I have also done it where I have a d4 list and if a player matches me, I roll on that list and see what result happens, so I dont feel like I am forcing my hand at times where I want the dice to take the wheel :)

[@paulomtts]

This is basically the same as a 30%-no encounter dX% table. Nothing new, except it takes more time.

[@matthewparker9276]

Another thing you could do, particularly over longer time periods, is have the number of players who match you represent the number of random encounters that occur. Like, if the party was going on a 4 day journey, you could have each player, and yourself, roll 2d12. Then if you roll a 4 and a 9, and among the players two 4s and a 9 are rolled you could have 3 encounters (2 unfavourable and one favourable, or you could roll separately for that).