Hi again. Ever since opening my December holiday presents I've owned most of the Paizo Flip-Mats. I would love to design an adventure for all of them.
So, as a first step, please help me brainstorm categories of battle mat encounters.
I'll start with five examples. What have I missed?
My five examples from Paizo Adventure Paths are all minor spoilers from the first Kingmaker and Legacy of Fire books.
1. The Simple Skirmish
The PCs start near one edge of the map. Their opponent(s) start somewhere else on the map. Roll initiative.
2. Fortify and Defend
The PCs have time to plan and set up defenses on the map. Then their opponents arrive, usually from a predictable side of the map. Roll initiative.
3. Ambush!
The PCs are minding their own business when opponent(s) attack! This time the opponent(s) have had a chance to fortify or otherwise arrange the initial combat parameters to their own advantage. Roll initiative.
4. Non-Combat Tactical Help
Some danger is spreading: fire, flood, poison gas, etc. The PCs must run about providing help while remaining wary about the threat's positioning.
5. Resource Use Puzzle
Similar to an ambush but without combat (at least initially). The PCs arrive with the map arranged to favor the opponent(s). They must use skills, strength, and cleverness to accomplish some goal--often despite recognizing that they are entering a trap. Perhaps they must rescue someone, find something, deliver something, eavesdrop on someone, etc. Often there is a sense of urgency, either that time will run out for them to do their job or that the opponent(s) might be arriving at any moment.
Aw, come on, folks! Since this seemed a very generic RPG question, then for the first time I cross-posted my question to Story Games and so far they are kicking tushy. I know we can do some brainstorming!