Initiative

Initiative is the process by which an order is determined for character turns in a single combat round.

Initiative is used in unmeasurable discreet time models. The queue at the heart of measurable discreet time models naturally establishes order, and in continuous-time games the player’s reflexes determine who shoots first.

Subtypes

Note: This is only to determine character order, the player order may also need to be established.

Fixed ordering

Units take turns in exactly the same order each round. (Not to be confused with fixed player order.) This order could be established by party order, randomly before combat starts, or some other method.

Random ordering

Units take turns in a different random order each round.

Statistic based ordering

Units have some kind of statistic, like agility or speed, that is used to order their actions. They may get additional adjustments due to weapon speed, complexity of the action they indend to take, or spell effects. Add in some randomness just so that each round doesn’t play out exactly the same.

How are ties resolved?

Player’s choice initiative 🔗

The player gets to decide what order their own units act in relation to each other.

https://www.geekeratimedia.com/2019/12/initiative-in-od-remember-when-d-combat.html

Games using this mechanic