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War is one of the predominant themes in fantasy literature.
The push and pull of opposing forces, adrenaline, and death fascinate writers and players alike.
Many Dungeon Masters may find themselves at a standstill when trying to create a story based around one.
Art via Wizards of the Coast
Why Is War Happening?
Your story may have a greater impact if you do the same.
That, too, can be your war.
Savra Sunstar and Jander Sunstar by Andrew Mar
Types Of War
War is complicated, even in fantasy.
Here are some examples.
Guerrilla War
Nontraditional warfare.
Savra Sunstar and Jander Sunstar by Andrew Mar
Typically, they’re fought between small groups and larger groups.
Naval Warfare
Battles are fought aboard ships.
Invasion
One nation has breached a border.
Icewind Dale Art by Jedd Chevrier
What Are The Rules Of Your War?
More plainly,it could keep your players from going too far.
Are mages allowed to fight or are they encouraged to?
Entering Saltmarsh by Zoltan Boros
Can one side use a dragon if they convince it to fight?
Decide The Party’s Role
Here’s where you have more room to play.
If you’re unsure,narrowing the scopeof the actions you want them to take may be less overwhelming.
Concept Art from Keys from the Golden Vault by Evyn Fong
Adding acomplication to their storycan make for a fascinating character for the players to interact with (i.e.
Why did she choose the party?
The general of the militia has a plan tocapture the archmageas leverage.
The general knows this archmage’s weakness, but no one knows how, yet.
The party has been asked to treat theconclave of dryadsto ask them to join the party.
1d6soldiers explain their ties to a town.
In1d4days,this town will come under attack by the enemy.
Or will they fight their way out?
A wizard’s apprentice has joined up but isn’t very good at magic.
He’s endearing, but he has odd runes inscribed on his body.
Your players discover half of them aremagical secrets from the other side of the war.He is aliving message.
A soldier your party has befriendedsubtly tries to convince your players to defect.
2d6horses are cut loose from the stables.Your player must investigate the stable master.
But is the BBEGwrong?This is entirely up to you!
How does this work in your campaign?
This can helpguide your campaign.
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