Randomize the Encounter Area

 

Some work in progress tables I'm using to generate more interesting (or at least diverse) areas for encounters.  The reaction table, distance and motivations are pretty standard. Working to expand the rest.

Distance

2d6 x 10 Distance: feet/yards

Cover

Roll 2d6:

2 Cover:       Monster - hard

3 Cover:       Monster - soft 

4 Cover:       Left (of PCs) - hard

5 Cover:       Left (of PCs) - soft

6-8 Cover:       None

9 Cover:       Right (of PCs) - soft

10 Cover:       Right (of PCs) - hard

11 Cover:       PCs - soft

12 Cover:       PCs - hard

Elevation

Roll 2d6:

2-3      Elevation:   Monster higher

4     Elevation:   Center higher

5      Elevation:   Left higher

6-8      Elevation:   Elevation level

9      Elevation:   Center lower

10      Elevation:   Right higher

11-12    Elevation:   Character higher

Visibility

Roll 2d6:

2-4     Visibility: Obscured (Mist, Smoke, Foliage)

5-12     Visibility: Clear

Reaction

2    Reaction:    Immediate Attack

3-5 Reaction:    Hostile - Possible Attack

6-8 Reaction:    Uncertain or Confused

9-11 Reaction:    No Attack - Leaves or Considers Offers

12 Reaction:    Enthusiastic Friendship

Motivation

Roll 2d6:

2 Motivation:  Lost or escaping

3-4 Motivation:  Overcoming obstacle

5-6 Motivation:  Resting

7 Motivation:  Seeking food/shelter

9-10 Motivation:  Searching for lost person or item

11 Motivation:  Guarding or near lair

12 Motivation:  Fleeing encounter