Agree on the edition before ordering combat
Under the free D&D 2024 rules, a combatant surprised by combat starting has Disadvantage on their Initiative roll. Resolve the roll and record the resulting order. Do not add a “free round” as an automatic consequence of that rule.
This guide uses Playing the Game, Free Rules 2024, consulted on 25 October 2026. If your table uses another edition or a house rule, identify it before applying the example. DMGrid describes itself as a 5E manager; that does not establish automatic handling of every 2024 rule.
An ambush with numbers you can check
Our fictional example assumes the table has already determined who is surprised, with no other modifiers or effects beyond those stated:
- The surprised scout has +2 Initiative. She rolls 17 and 6; Disadvantage uses 6, giving 8.
- The attacker has an Initiative total of 12, already resolved by the table.
- Another character has a total of 15, also already resolved.
Those totals give an order of 15, 12 and 8. The scout acts at the place determined by her Initiative. The example grants no attacker turn before that order and does not itself determine whether anyone can hide, attack or affect a target.
This is not a DMGrid demonstration: the invented rolls explain the record. If additional Advantage, Disadvantage or other effects apply, check their rules before using this simplified calculation.
What DMGrid helps organise, and what the table resolves
The official facts document a tactical board, pieces, Hit Points, turn order and session notes. Organise the combat and keep a note of the edition and agreed outcome. We announce no surprise detector or automatic calculation for this situation.
Before starting:
- Explain which surprise rule the table uses and who it affects under the table’s resolution.
- Resolve all required Initiative rolls, retaining totals rather than the most striking die result.
- Record the actual order in your combat preparation.
- During the session, update Hit Points and notes after the relevant effects are resolved.
A note such as “2024 rules; scout surprised; Initiative 8” explains the decision without creating an additional round or dictating the character’s actions.
Choose for your actual table
DMGrid is a paid Windows beta for in-person game masters using one computer and local campaigns. It does not offer browser multiplayer rooms. Review the product and terms before buying. The direct installer is for licensed customers, not a free demo.