Search by Grid
Exploration is a core part of adventuring, and Search by Grid is a structured way to handle large-scale searches while keeping the game moving. Whether the party is scouring a ruined city for a raider base, tracking a lost child in the wilderness, or even hacking into a digital network, this system provides a clear and engaging method for discovery.
How It Works
Instead of searching aimlessly, the Search by Grid system breaks the area into a manageable grid, where each section represents a point of interest. The GM determines the size of the grid based on complexity and then randomly populates it with encounters, ranging from hostile creatures and valuable objects to obstacles or empty locations.
Team-Based Exploration
Players start on one edge of the grid and work their way toward the objective by resolving Dynamic Encounters in each section. Success moves them forward, while failures can slow them down or introduce challenges. The goal is to find the target as efficiently as possible before conditions worsen over time.
Why Use Search by Grid?
This system keeps searching engaging without bogging down the game. Instead of rolling endless Perception checks, players actively navigate and strategize their search, making choices that affect their outcome.
If the team spends too much time searching, environmental factors like storms, fatigue, or enemy reinforcements make the task more difficult. This encourages smart exploration over exhaustive searching.
Gaining an Advantage
Some searches allow for legwork beforehand. Whether it's gathering intel or hacking into a system, players can gain clues that reveal parts of the grid before they even step foot inside, giving them a head start on their objective.
Fast, Strategic, and Immersive
The Search by Grid system offers an efficient way to handle large-scale searches while keeping the adventure moving. It ensures that every search feels meaningful and immersive, rewarding smart choices over mindless dice rolling.
Want the full rules?
➡️ Search by Grid