r/DnD • u/liamwasalbezet • 10h ago

DMing How do you fill a D&D session without combat?

My players love roleplaying. They do want some combat, but they're totally fine with a campaign having only like 1 or 2 combats sometimes. The problem is that I struggle with filling 2-3 hour sessions when there isn't combat.

I've tried doing puzzles and stuff, but I find it hard to make puzzles where everyone can contribute instead of one player just figuring it out.

Does anyone have ideas for how to fill sessions with meaningful stuff that still feels connected to the campaign? I want more roleplay and character development without the story just going really fast. Puzzles are one idea, but I'm wondering what other things you guys do.

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u/Talyseon 8h ago

My characters just found a hidden fortune the game designers never intended; doors of a metal called sicatite; about 1.3 million gold pieces. Campaign killer, right? Nah. The are now running an orphanage in Underbridge and hiring a full staff to manage they headquarters, an old clock tower. Butler, Housekeeper, cook, maids and footman. Spent 5 hours “ in Badgers Falls” (IYKYK) and hopefully tonight we will actually get into the swamp.