Rules reference
Combat in Freeform / Custom
Turn flow, actions, and common combat rules. Create and manage your freeform characters with our comprehensive character manager.
Key points
Combat rules matter most when they keep scenes moving. This page focuses on decision points and the system’s core resolution loop.
Roll loop reminder
Resolution follows your table's chosen system: declare what your character attempts, make the roll your rules call for, and apply the outcome to the fiction and the sheet.
- Declare intent and stakes.
- Make the roll your system's core mechanic calls for.
- Apply consequences and record changes on the sheet.
Example: Treat every roll as a decision: success advances, failure changes the situation.
Examples
Example: Declare intent, not just an action
Instead of “I attack,” state the goal: “I push them back from the door” or “I buy time for the escape.” This makes outcomes clearer.
Example: End scenes early
Once the winner is clear, wrap it. Don’t grind out the last 10% if it doesn’t change the story.
Common mistakes (smallest fix)
- Mistake: Unclear turns and slow decisions. Fix: State intent, pick one action, resolve fast, and move on.
- Mistake: Grinding after the outcome is obvious. Fix: End scenes early and narrate the final advantage.
Build guides for Freeform / Custom
The mentor
Knows the cost of the road because they have already walked it.
The rebel
Cannot leave a wrong thing standing, whatever it costs them.
The trickster
Wins by changing the game rather than playing it.
The guardian
Stands between the people they love and everything else.
The seeker
Chasing an answer that keeps moving.
The wildcard
Nobody, including them, is sure what they will do next.