New DM-when to level the party


Advice


Hi, I've been playing for a few months now and have starting to run Mummy's Mask. Two sessions in (just finished the first tomb), and this weekend is looking nasty in terms of challenges. There are only four players this week and their cleric will be missing just as we start hitting the undead and nastier CON damage effects. Should I tell them to go ahead and level up to keep upright?


4 people is the norm for AP's. Undead don't have to make the best possible decisions so you can use that if you like.

Leveling after the nasty fight sounds more rewarding.

Silver Crusade

First of all, you're the GM and have the freedom to do whatever you think is best for the game and the enjoyment of all participants (including yourself).

As far as leveling them, I wouldn't suggest it. Normally, you want about 3-4 sessions at a given level before advancing, unless the game is intentionally fast paced (APs usually aren't). The key decider here is that granting a level is (mostly) irreversible. There are a multitude of things you can do otherwise to help smooth over the session that can be turned off at any time. Playing the enemies dumber is an option, as is good old fashioned dice fudging. You can also drop consumables, CLW potions for example. You could also simply adjust the encounters down, giving everything on the enemies' side a -2. Many of these changes are behind the scenes and easily reversed if the PCs either surprise you with their competence, or in later sessions when you have the full group. I have a feeling you're underestimating your players, so I'm more in favor of behind the curtain tweaks that won't be noticed.

My GM motto is, "It's all about appearances and the end effect." With a more subtle boost, they don't feel like you're holding their hands, but they won't be overwhelmed either.

The only big thing that would change my opinion is if they're all itching to level. Like, really badly. REALLY BADLY! They have to all be mentioning it several times each session.


Throw exp out the window. Most APs come with a guide as to when the PCs should be what level.

This discourages EX farming and does not punish players for not opening every door.

In Mummy's mask I would grant one level after each dungeon.


Normally I'd say you should level them up when they get the requisite experience. If they fight challenges that are a smidge too hard for them, perhaps they should see if they can either level up somehow, or see if they can think their way around the problem, using tactics or other methods.

You ask if you should go ahead and tell them to level? Are you not using experience in your campaign? If not, why is that, and how is it working out for you?

-Nearyn

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