Step by Step
1. Determine Surprise
The DM
Determines whether anyone involved in the combat encounter is surprised.
2. Establish Positions
The DM
- Decides where all the characters and monsters are located. Given the characters’ marching order and their stated positions
- Figures out where the adversaries are
- How far away and in what direction
3. Roll Initiative
Everyone Involved
- Rolls initiative Determining the order of combatants’ turns
4. Take Turns
Each Participant
In the combat scenario takes a turn in the initiative order
5. Begin the Next Round
Every Participant
In the combat scenario has a turn once each has completed the round ends.
- Repeat step 4 until the fighting stops.