# Turn-Based Combat System

Mythwar's turn-based combat system is one of its most distinctive features, setting it apart from real-time MMORPGs. This guide explains how the combat system works based on archived information.

## What is Turn-Based Combat?

Unlike most modern MMORPGs that use real-time combat, Mythwar employs a turn-based system where:

- Combat occurs in distinct turns or rounds

- Players have time to plan their actions

- Strategy and tactical thinking are more important than quick reflexes

- Each participant takes actions in a specific order

## How Turn-Based Combat Works

### Combat Initiation

When combat begins:

- All participants enter combat mode

- Turn order is determined (likely based on speed/initiative)

- Players select their actions for each turn

- Actions are resolved in order

### Turn Structure

Each combat turn involves:

1. **Planning Phase**: Players decide what actions to take

2. **Action Selection**: Choose attacks, spells, items, or other actions

3. **Resolution Phase**: Actions are executed in turn order

4. **Results**: Damage, effects, and status changes are applied

### Turn Order

The sequence of actions is typically determined by:

- Character speed and agility stats

- Initiative bonuses from equipment or abilities

- Random factors to add unpredictability

- Some actions may affect future turn order

## Strategic Elements

### Planning and Foresight

Turn-based combat rewards:

- **Tactical Thinking**: Planning multiple turns ahead

- **Resource Management**: Using mana, items, and abilities efficiently

- **Positioning**: Strategic placement on the battlefield

- **Timing**: Knowing when to use powerful abilities

### Action Economy

Considerations for each turn:

- **Action Priority**: Which actions are most important now

- **Resource Conservation**: Saving powerful abilities for key moments

- **Opportunity Cost**: What you sacrifice by choosing one action over another

- **Setup Moves**: Actions that pay off in future turns

## Combat Actions

### Basic Actions

Common actions available each turn:

- **Attack**: Basic physical or ranged attacks

- **Cast Spell**: Use magical abilities (for Mages)

- **Use Item**: Consume potions or other consumables

- **Defend**: Reduce incoming damage or prepare for counterattacks

- **Move**: Change position on the battlefield

### Special Abilities

Race-specific and advanced actions:

- **Human Weapon Skills**: Special weapon techniques

- **Mage Spells**: Elemental magic and area effects

- **Centaur Archery**: Precise ranged attacks and nature magic

- **Borg Technology**: Energy weapons and technological abilities

## Pet Integration

### Pet Actions in Combat

Pets participate in turn-based combat by:

- Taking their own turns in the turn order

- Following commands given by their owner

- Using their own abilities and attacks

- Coordinating with player actions

### Pet Commands

Players can direct pets to:

- Attack specific targets

- Use special pet abilities

- Defend the player or other allies

- Position themselves strategically

### Strategic Pet Usage

- **Coordination**: Timing pet and player actions together

- **Target Selection**: Directing pets to optimal targets

- **Ability Management**: Using pet special abilities at the right time

- **Protection**: Using pets to defend against enemy attacks

## Race-Specific Combat Strategies

### Human Combat Approach

- Focus on strong physical attacks and weapon skills

- Use defensive abilities to survive enemy attacks

- Excel in sustained combat situations

- Balance offense and defense effectively

### Mage Combat Tactics

- Powerful magical attacks with high damage potential

- Area effect spells can target multiple enemies

- Manage mana resources carefully

- Stay at range and avoid physical combat

### Centaur Battle Style

- Ranged attacks from safe distances

- High mobility to avoid enemy attacks

- Use nature magic for healing and support

- Excellent for hit-and-run tactics

### Borg Combat Methods

- Unique technological abilities

- Energy-based attacks and defenses

- Complex tactical options

- Adapt to different situations with technology

## Advanced Combat Concepts

### Battlefield Control

- **Positioning**: Using terrain and distance strategically

- **Area Denial**: Controlling space with spells or abilities

- **Chokepoints**: Forcing enemies into disadvantageous positions

- **Line of Sight**: Using obstacles to block enemy actions

### Status Effects and Conditions

- **Buffs**: Positive effects that enhance abilities

- **Debuffs**: Negative effects that hinder performance

- **Damage Over Time**: Effects that deal damage across multiple turns

- **Control Effects**: Stuns, slows, and other limiting conditions

### Resource Management

- **Health Management**: Knowing when to heal or retreat

- **Mana Conservation**: Using magical resources efficiently

- **Item Usage**: Strategic use of consumables and tools

- **Ability Cooldowns**: Managing special ability availability

## Tips for Turn-Based Success

### Mental Approach

1. **Think Strategically**: Plan several turns ahead when possible

2. **Stay Patient**: Don't rush into poor tactical decisions

3. **Learn Patterns**: Understand enemy behaviors and abilities

4. **Adapt Quickly**: Adjust strategy based on changing circumstances

### Tactical Principles

1. **Economy of Action**: Make each turn count toward victory

2. **Risk Assessment**: Weigh potential gains against possible losses

3. **Information Warfare**: Gather intelligence about enemy capabilities

4. **Flexibility**: Have backup plans when primary strategies fail

The turn-based combat system is what makes Mythwar unique among MMORPGs. Success comes not from quick reactions, but from careful planning, strategic thinking, and tactical execution!