classic question.
I know most people prefer 4 but I’m running an online game (Waterdeep Dragon Heist) and was curious how bad a six person online game might be?
Nah, you just need to be upfront about what is expected from players during combat.
You need to make it clear that it is up to each player to stay engaged when it is not their turn, little things like cheering their party members go a long way to staying involved when it’s not their turn.
They need to be considering what they plan on doing before it’s their turn. Part of that you the DM can assist with by announcing whose turn it is and who is next.
6 player combat can be a slog if these are not adhered to.
not all players are well seasoned I’m a little worried they won’t be able to do that
In my experience the biggest problem with large groups us the amount of time it takes for combat rounds. Compound that with people being distracted while online, and I think 6 players will be a bit much. If you have everyone prep their turn, and streamline the enemies’ turns, it might be ok.
I’m currently running with six. It is manageable and still fun, but I would not add another. 4-6 seems to be the sweet spot.
With six, you do have to make an effort to ensure that everyone is being included. To speed combat up, I make sure to let the next player know when their turn is coming up next so they can prepare.
For my in person game, six is ideal because typically a rotating cast of two can’t make it each week and then I can DM for four, which is the best number to actually have at the table.
In my experience, 6 players is doable but pushing it. Turns take a long time, and balancing is hard because there is so much overlap in strengths and they can focus so much damage that significant monsters/enemies don’t stick around very long unless you fudge their health pools.
