Dungeons & Dragons Combat Training

Fighting monsters in Dungeons & Dragons is one of the most fun and iconic parts of the game, but it can also be challenging to remember all the rules, think strategically about the battlefield, and roleplay a character all at the same time. This class is designed to help make that challenge easier by breaking down a different part of the game each session so students can become the ultimate RPG warriors!

Along the way, students will learn a number of critical thinking and problem-solving techniques, concepts of teamwork, strategy and tactics, and principles of basic statistics and probability in an environment that is fun and exciting. 

In each class we will start by selecting a particular aspect or problem of the Dungeons & Dragons 5e combat system. After looking at the way the rules are written, we will work interactively and collaboratively to identify ways players can use those rules to their advantage, and respond when their enemies do so. Each class will close with a short combat that will give students the chance to put what they learned into practice.

We will use third-level characters for our practice combats. Students are welcome to create their own before the session, or they can use one of the pre-generated characters provided by the instructor. We will also use roll20.com during practice combats to provide visuals for the students. While not required, a roll20 account is recommended for students who want to take advantage of this feature.

Because this class focuses on understanding combat rules of D&D, it is recommended that students come to class with some previous experience playing the game, as this course will not focus on teaching the basics of gameplay.

Sample topics are included below:

Week of Oct 11 : types of combat characters & general strategy
Week of Oct 18: using your environment
Week of Oct 25: fighting outnumbered
Week of Nov 1: dealing with flying opponents