Mastering Teleporting Encounters in Dungeons Dragons 5E: A Guide for DMs

Running encounters in Dungeons Dragons 5th Edition (DD 5E) can be quite dynamic and engaging. However, adding elements like teleporting or moving objects complicates the process. In this article, we will provide a guide on how to manage such encounters by introducing a strategic system that can be easily implemented by any Dungeon Master (DM).

Context and Assumptions

The scenario involves enemies in a room where objects move or teleport when not observed. To handle this situation, let’s consider the following steps:

Adding Initiative for the Spell

When a spell is cast that causes things to move or teleport, I would recommend adding an additional initiative turn for this spell. This gives the DM the opportunity to subtly shift the environment, adding unexpected challenges for the players.

To introduce a sense of randomness and fairness, players should make Perception checks to assess their awareness of their surroundings. The DC (Difficulty Class) for these checks would be set to 10. This reflects the fact that players are already in the room and are aware that things might be moving.

Consider the following factors before making the Perception checks:

Lighting conditions: Is the room brightly lit, dimly lit, or dark? Central light source: Is there a central light source that could be distracting? Number of enemies: Are there many enemies in the room, and are they visible? Size of enemies: Are they large or small, making movement more obvious or less so?

Based on the results of these checks, determine what the players saw passively and what they didn’t. Remember, when players turn around, the items they left behind will automatically move. You can decide on their new positions either randomly or by rolling a d8 to see which of the eight directions they move and by how far.

A Faster Method

Another approach to handling this situation without boring your players is to use their passive Perceptions. By rolling a single die to see if there is anything in the players' peripheral vision, you can determine whether they noticed the movement.

Once you establish this awareness, you can use the previous method to move the items as described above. This approach streamlines the process while maintaining a sense of dynamism.

Adjusting the System to Specific Needs

The system outlined above is flexible and can be adjusted to fit your specific campaign and player preferences. For instance, you might decide to increase the DC for Perception checks in darker rooms. Alternatively, you could modify the movement distances based on the size or weight of the objects involved.

Remember, the goal is to create a fun and memorable encounter while keeping the pacing of the game smooth and enjoyable for everyone involved.

Conclusion

Teleporting encounters can add a unique and exciting element to your DD campaigns. By using the methods described in this guide, you can create encounters that challenge your players in new and dynamic ways. Whether you opt for the more detailed approach or the faster method, the key is to maintain the sense of uncertainty and surprise that keeps players engaged and excited.

Happy adventuring!