A scene is a segment of gameplay: a battle, a negotiation with a noble, an exploration, an escape. Anything that can be an encounter or story beat can be a scene.
Framing play as scenes helps the GM set scenes, focus a scene on a character or event, and transition between them. It also helps track which characters are where. Some effects last for an entire scene to give it a particular feel.
Most scenes last up to about half an hour, but that can stretch or shrink as needed.
Scenes as a refresh timer
Besides short and long rests, scenes can refresh or activate character abilities, or allow once-per-scene abilities. A Berserker’s rage or a Bard’s Encore refreshing each scene fits the theme.
Types of scene
| Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Conflict | A battle, a chase, or a tense interaction between characters. |
| Interlude | Slower moments, like exploration or time in town, where the GM can describe time passing. |
| GM | No player characters present; players are spectators. Used to set the stage, transition between scenes, foreshadow events, show the villain’s actions, or introduce a future threat. |
The Leave Scene combat action lets a character exit a conflict scene. See Combat Actions.