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
This system uses a dice pool approach in RPG Stack’s guides: build a pool from your character traits, roll, count successes, and apply consequences.
- Build your pool from the relevant traits.
- Roll and count successes according to the system’s thresholds.
- 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.