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When Swords Are Drawn

Combat in LOREKEEPER is tactical, turn-based, and driven by the AI DM. It can start when you provoke a fight, stumble into an ambush, or when the story demands it. You do not need to memorize rules — the system handles the mechanics while you focus on making decisions.

Initiative

When combat begins, the AI DM rolls initiative for everyone involved — your character, allies, and enemies. This determines the turn order. Higher initiative means you act sooner.

Your Turn: What You Can Do

On your turn, you can take one of several actions:
  • Attack — Strike an enemy with your weapon. Damage depends on your stats and equipment.
  • Cast a spell — Use a spell from your spellbook. Spells can deal damage, heal allies, or apply conditions.
  • Use an item — Drink a potion, throw a bomb, or activate a magical artifact.
  • Flee — Attempt to disengage and escape the encounter.
Be creative with your actions. Telling the AI DM “I flip the table for cover and throw my dagger” is more fun than just “I attack” — and the AI rewards it.

Damage, Conditions, and HP

Attacks deal specific damage types (slashing, fire, necrotic, etc.), and enemies may resist or be vulnerable to certain types. Conditions like poisoned, stunned, or frightened affect what a character can do on their turn. Your character has HP (Hit Points). When HP drops to zero, your character falls. Healing spells, potions, or rest can restore it.

Winning a Fight

When all enemies are defeated, the AI DM wraps up the encounter. You may earn experience, loot, or narrative progression. Some fights unlock new story paths.
LOREKEEPER uses karmic dice — the system subtly adjusts luck to keep combat dramatic without being punishing, especially for newer players.