In the captivating realm of tabletop role-playing games (RPGs), the roll of initiative sets the stage for a thrilling adventure. Whether you’re an experienced dungeon master or a novice player, understanding how to roll initiative is crucial for ensuring a seamless and engaging gaming session. This essential mechanic determines the turn order of characters and monsters, shaping the narrative and strategic choices that lie ahead.
To initiate the roll of initiative, each participant in the game, including players and the dungeon master (DM), rolls a twenty-sided die (d20). The result of these individual rolls determines the character’s or monster’s initiative score. Higher scores indicate a swifter reaction time and grant an earlier turn in the combat sequence. The DM typically rolls for all non-player characters (NPCs) and monsters, while players roll for their characters. The resulting initiative scores are then recorded on a convenient reference sheet for easy access during combat.
Once the initiative scores are established, the characters and creatures act in descending order, beginning with the highest score. This turn-based system ensures that all participants have an equal opportunity to strategize, attack, and react to the unfolding events of the game. The fluidity of the initiative roll adds an element of unpredictability and excitement to each combat encounter, creating a dynamic and immersive experience for all involved.
Gathering the Participants
To begin the initiative rolling process, it is essential to gather all participants who will be actively engaging in the game or activity. This includes players, referees, or other individuals directly involved in the decision-making and gameplay. Before rolling initiative, ensure everyone has a clear understanding of the game mechanics, their roles, and the importance of determining turn order.
Establishing the Number of Participants
Accurately counting the number of participants is crucial for the initiative rolling process. Here are some tips to ensure accuracy:
| Tip | Description |
|---|---|
| Physical Headcount | Visually count the individuals present who will participate in the activity. |
| Roster or List | Maintain a list or roster with the names of all participants. Cross off or mark present as each individual arrives. |
| Verbal Confirmation | Ask each participant to verbally confirm their presence and identify themselves by name. |
Determining the Roll Order
The roll order for initiative is determined by several factors:
- Dexterity Modifier: Each character’s Dexterity modifier is added to their initiative roll.
- Tiebreaker: If two or more characters have the same initiative roll, they roll a d20 to determine the order in which they will act.
- Player Choice: In some cases, the players may choose to determine which character acts first, second, and so on.
Dexterity Modifier
The Dexterity modifier is a measure of a character’s agility and reflexes. Characters with a higher Dexterity modifier are more likely to act first in an initiative roll.
| Dexterity Modifier | Initiative Bonus |
|---|---|
| -5 | -2 |
| -4 | -1 |
| -3 | 0 |
| -2 | +1 |
| -1 | +2 |
| 0 | +3 |
| +1 | +4 |
| +2 | +5 |
For example, a character with a Dexterity modifier of +2 would add 5 to their initiative roll.
Choosing a Rolling Method
The most common method of rolling initiative is to have each player roll a d20.
Dice pools are another option for rolling initiative. This involves rolling multiple dice at once, such as 3d6 or 4d4, and adding the results together. This can create a wider range of possible outcomes, which can be more varied and interesting than a single d20 roll.
Other methods of rolling initiative include the following:
| Method | Description |
|---|---|
| Highest roll | Each player rolls a d20, and the player with the highest roll wins initiative. |
| Lowest roll | Each player rolls a d20, and the player with the lowest roll wins initiative. |
| Random draw | Each player draws a card from a deck of cards, and the player with the highest card wins initiative. |
The best method of rolling initiative for a particular game will depend on the specific rules of the game and the preferences of the players. Some methods may be more appropriate for certain types of games or for certain groups of players.
Rolling the Dice
In most RPG systems, initiative is a numerical value that determines the order in which characters take their turns in combat. The most common way to roll initiative is to have each player roll a die.
The type of die used to roll initiative varies from game to game. In Dungeons & Dragons 5th Edition, for example, players roll a d20. In Pathfinder, they roll a d6.
Once all the players have rolled their dice, the results are compared. The player with the highest roll goes first, followed by the player with the second highest roll, and so on.
Determining Initiative
The following table shows how to determine initiative in different RPG systems:
| RPG System | Die Rolled |
|---|---|
| Dungeons & Dragons 5th Edition | d20 |
| Pathfinder | d6 |
| Shadowrun | d6 (multiple dice) |
Reading the Results
Once all the initiative rolls are made, it’s time to read the results. The highest roll goes first, followed by the second highest, and so on.
In some cases, two or more characters may roll the same initiative. In this case, a tiebreaker is rolled to determine the order in which they act.
The initiative order is very important, as it determines which characters act first and which act last. Characters who act earlier in the round have a greater advantage, as they can set up their attacks or defenses before their opponents.
Example
Let’s say we have a group of four characters: Alice, Bob, Carol, and Dave. They roll initiative and get the following results:
| Character | Initiative Roll |
|—|—|
| Alice | 18 |
| Bob | 15 |
| Carol | 12 |
| Dave | 10 |
In this case, Alice would act first, followed by Bob, Carol, and then Dave.
Breaking Ties
If two or more characters or monsters have the same initiative bonus, a tiebreaker roll is necessary. In such cases, the following steps should be taken:
1. Roll a d20 for each tied character or monster. The result represents their initiative modifier.
2. Add the character’s or monster’s Dexterity modifier to the initiative modifier.
3. The character or monster with the higher total wins the tie and acts first.
If the tie still persists after the tiebreaker roll, repeat the process until a clear winner is determined. It’s important to remember that the initiative order remains the same for the remainder of the combat encounter unless a new initiative roll is called for by a specific ability or spell.
| Character/Monster | Initiative Bonus | Dexterity Modifier | Initiative Modifier |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bard | +2 | +3 | +5 |
| Fighter | +0 | +2 | +2 |
| Goblin A | +1 | +1 | +2 |
| Goblin B | +1 | +1 | +2 |
In this example, both Bard and Fighter are tied with an initiative bonus of +2. Bard’s Dexterity modifier of +3 gives them an initiative modifier of +5, while Fighter’s Dexterity modifier of +2 gives them an initiative modifier of +2. Therefore, Bard wins the tie and acts first.
Deciding on Actions
Once the initiative order is established, players take turns describing their character’s actions. These actions can include moving, attacking, casting spells, or interacting with the environment. Players should consider the following factors when deciding on their actions:
1. Character’s abilities and strengths:
Consider the character’s strengths and weaknesses. What actions can they perform effectively? What actions are they not suited for?
2. The situation at hand:
Pay attention to the current situation. What are the immediate threats? What are the long-term goals? What are the potential consequences of different actions?
3. The actions of other players:
Coordinate with other players to maximize the effectiveness of your actions. Consider how your actions might complement or hinder the actions of others.
4. The rules and limitations of the game:
Be aware of the rules and limitations of the game. What actions are allowed? What are the consequences of breaking the rules?
5. The story and role-playing elements:
Consider how your actions will affect the story and the role-playing experience. Are your actions consistent with your character’s personality and goals?
6. The consequences of your actions:
Think ahead about the potential consequences of your actions. How might they affect the party, the mission, or the overall campaign?
7. Consulting with the Game Master:
If you’re unsure about the legality or efficacy of an action, don’t be afraid to consult with the Game Master. They can provide guidance and make rulings on the spot.
| Action | Roll Required | Modifier |
|—|—|—|
| Attack | d20 + Strength or Dexterity modifier | Proficiency bonus if proficient in the weapon |
| Cast Spell | d20 + Spellcasting ability modifier | Spellcasting ability modifier |
| Move | d20 + Speed | Athletics proficiency bonus if attempting a complex move |
| Interact | d20 + Relevant ability modifier | None |
Moving to the Next Turn
Once initiative is rolled and the order of turns is established, the game proceeds in turns. Each turn consists of the following steps:
1. Determine Which Character’s Turn It Is
The character with the highest initiative score takes the first turn.
2. Take Actions
On their turn, a character can take actions, such as moving, attacking, or using abilities.
3. End Turn
When a character has taken all of their actions, they end their turn.
4. Move to the Next Character
The turn order moves to the next character in the initiative order.
5. Repeat Steps 1-4 Until All Characters Have Taken a Turn
The game continues until all characters have taken a turn.
6. Start a New Round
Once all characters have taken a turn, a new round begins. Initiative is rolled again to determine the turn order for the new round.
7. Repeat Steps 1-6 Until the Game Ends
The game continues until one or more of the following conditions is met:
| Condition | Result |
|---|---|
| The objective of the game is achieved | The game ends |
| All of the characters in one team are defeated | The other team wins |
| The game runs out of time | The game ends |
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Not Rolling Enough Dice
One of the most common issues is not rolling enough dice. This can happen for a variety of reasons, such as forgetting to roll for all of your characters or not rolling the correct number of dice for a particular ability. Make sure that you are rolling the correct number of dice for each ability, and that you are rolling for all of your characters.
Rolling the Wrong Kind of Dice
Another common issue is rolling the wrong kind of dice. For example, you might be rolling a d4 instead of a d6, or a d12 instead of a d20. Make sure that you are rolling the correct type of dice for each ability.
Adding the Wrong Modifier
You might also be adding the wrong modifier to your roll. For example, you might be adding your Strength modifier to a Dexterity roll, or your Charisma modifier to an Intelligence roll. Make sure that you are adding the correct modifier to each roll.
Not Adding the Proficiency Bonus
If you are proficient in a skill, you need to add your proficiency bonus to your roll. Make sure that you are adding your proficiency bonus to all of your rolls for skills that you are proficient in.
Not Taking into Account Advantage or Disadvantage
If you have advantage or disadvantage on a roll, you need to take that into account. If you have advantage, you roll two dice and take the higher result. If you have disadvantage, you roll two dice and take the lower result. Make sure that you are taking advantage or disadvantage into account on all of your rolls.
Making a Mistake in Your Math
It is easy to make a mistake in your math when you are rolling initiative. Make sure that you are checking your math carefully before you announce your result.
Not Understanding the Rules
If you are not sure how to roll initiative, make sure that you read the rules carefully. You can find the rules for rolling initiative in the Player’s Handbook.
Rolling Too Quickly
It is important to take your time when you are rolling initiative. If you roll too quickly, you might make a mistake. Take your time and make sure that you are rolling the correct dice and adding the correct modifiers.
Not Being Prepared
One of the best ways to avoid mistakes when rolling initiative is to be prepared. Make sure that you have all of your dice and character sheets ready before you start rolling. This will help you to avoid making mistakes and will make the process of rolling initiative go more quickly.
Utilizing Rolling Averages
Rolling averages provide a more stable representation of initiative values over time. Instead of relying solely on the individual results, they take into account multiple previous rolls to create a “smoothed” average.
To utilize rolling averages, each player’s initiative modifier is tracked separately. After each round, the current modifier is added to the player’s rolling average, and the oldest modifier is removed. The resulting rolling average is then used to determine the player’s initiative for the next round.
The length of the rolling average window can be adjusted to suit the desired level of stability. A shorter window will result in a more reactive average, while a longer window will provide a more gradual change in modifier. Common window sizes range from 3 rounds to 5 rounds, but can be customized based on the specific game and playstyle.
For example, let’s consider a player whose initiative modifiers over the last 4 rounds were +3, +2, +4, and +5. Using a 3-round rolling average, their current rolling average would be (3+4+5) / 3 = +4.
| Round | Modifier | Rolling Average |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | +3 | +3 |
| 2 | +2 | (3+2+2) / 3 = +2.33 |
| 3 | +4 | (2+4+4) / 3 = +3.33 |
| 4 | +5 | (4+4+5) / 3 = +4 |
How to Roll Initiative
When starting a combat encounter in Dungeons & Dragons 5th Edition, the first step is to determine which character or monster acts first. This is done by rolling initiative.
To roll initiative, each character or monster rolls a d20 (20-sided die). The character or monster with the highest roll acts first, followed by the character or monster with the second highest roll, and so on. If two or more characters or monsters roll the same number, they roll again to break the tie.
Initiative is an important part of combat, as it can determine which characters or monsters can take actions before being attacked. Characters or monsters with high initiative bonuses are more likely to be able to act first, which can give them a significant advantage in combat.
People Also Ask
How do I determine the initiative bonus for a character or monster?
The initiative bonus for a character or monster is determined by their Dexterity modifier. Characters or monsters with a high Dexterity modifier have a higher initiative bonus, which means they are more likely to act first in combat.
Can I use a skill to roll initiative?
No, you cannot use a skill to roll initiative. Initiative is always rolled using a d20.
What happens if two or more characters or monsters roll the same number on their initiative rolls?
If two or more characters or monsters roll the same number on their initiative rolls, they roll again to break the tie. The character or monster with the highest roll on the second roll acts first.
Can I take multiple actions on my turn?
You can take one action, one bonus action, and any number of free actions on your turn. Your bonus action is a special action that you can take in addition to your normal action. Free actions are actions that do not require any action to perform.
