Mounts And Riding
Mounted play changes how distance, reach, terrain, and exposure work. A mount can turn open ground into an advantage, but it can also become a liability when space is tight, footing is poor, or enemies can target the rider's mobility.
Space and terrain. A mount needs room to maneuver. Stairs, ladders, doors, rubble, crowds, and cramped rooms should matter.
Targeting and risk. Mounted characters gain mobility, but enemies can pressure the mount, the rider, or the relationship between them.
Speed and reach. Mounted movement can change who can engage, retreat, block, or threaten. Keep the map state clear.
Travel use. Outside combat, mounts affect pace, carrying capacity, fatigue, and how visible or subtle the party can be on the road.
Open Ground
Mounted movement is strongest when the rider can choose distance, approach vectors, and withdrawal lanes.
Crowded Spaces
Markets, tunnels, ships, ruins, and indoor spaces should challenge the mount's size, footing, and ability to turn.
Long Travel
Food, water, rest, shelter, replacement animals, and local laws can matter as much as speed on a long route.