Help me create level encounter

[AXP_Dave]

I'm DM'ing my first Pathfinder module and the first time I have DM'ed overall in many years. The mod calls for a number of encounters of a high number of 1st level warriors versus the 5th level party. On paper, the encounter level would be EL 7 for 8 x 1st level warrior guards (I think I'm doing the EL correct). I'm worried that the guards will not be able to hit the party's AC and would die quickly and not be much of a challenge to the party. So although the EL would be appropriate on paper, if the PC's are nealy invinsible it might be boring.

Does anyone have thoughts on this? Do you agree the 1st level NPC's might not be able to hit the party? I'm thinking of eliminating a number of the guard encounters for something with a few CR3 or 4 monsters. Any advice would be appreciated.

Thanks,
David

[Douglas Muir 406]

1) An ordinary, lightly armored 1st level warrior (not fighter) would be CR 1/3. So, eight of them together wouldn't be EL 7 -- they'd be more like EL 3-4.

The rule on CR is that for PC classes (fighter, wizard, bard, etc.), your CR is level-1... that is, a fourth level wizard would be CR 3. For NPC classes (warrior, expert, adept, etc.), your CR is level-2. So, a 4th level fighter is CR 3, while a 4th level warrior -- with less hp and feats and whatnot -- is only CR 2. A first level fighter is CR 1/2, while a first level warrior is CR 1/3.

2) Which module? There are probably people here who have run it -- and also, there's a forum particularly for the modules. You can post there, or just search for earlier discussions.

Doug M.

[IejirIsk]

It might just be a obligatory thug encounter

[osinbar49]

High numbers of opponents can offset an apparent overall weakness by the use of flanking tactics, aid another, and protected missile troops. Give the defenders cover and/or concealment. The right trap combined with a sudden onslaught of troops can be a serious threat.

Give the guards a morale bonus to hit. They are, after all, defending their home turf. Can the guards circle around behind the party?

Hope this helps. Good luck and have fun!

[AXP_Dave]

Thanks for everyones feedback and thoughts. I don't think I want to "game" the encounters to heavily to give the NPC's a chance. Maybe one encounter with the guards to keep it real and then the rest will be monster guards.

Thanks again for the help.

David

[IejirIsk]

another thing is encounters per sleep cycle. especially classes with limited oomph/day