I am running part of DoIP for relatively new players, currently 4 x level 2 and 1 Wizard Level 4. I plan to give them the option of trying the Axeholm quest next, because it fits well with the nicely crafted backstory of one of the players. I realize it is balanced as written for level 5. I plan to have Don-Jon Raskin (NPC they have already met) accompany them. Any thoughts on scaling down Axeholm for this level/size of Party?
Axeholm is balanced for characters of 5th level, though characters of 3rd or 4th level can survive its perils if they are cautious and rest between encounters. I'd let them rest uneventfully as much as possible for sure and let them flee if things go south and they opt for a safe retreat. With the majority of the party being 2nd level, it can be challenging so you may want to lower the number of monsters in any encounter by at least one and give them the opportunity to level up early in the adventure after may be 1-2 encounters so they can be at least level 3 sooner than later.
I am running part of DoIP for relatively new players, currently 4 x level 2 and 1 Wizard Level 4. I plan to give them the option of trying the Axeholm quest next, because it fits well with the nicely crafted backstory of one of the players. I realize it is balanced as written for level 5. I plan to have Don-Jon Raskin (NPC they have already met) accompany them. Any thoughts on scaling down Axeholm for this level/size of Party?
Axeholm is balanced for characters of 5th level, though characters of 3rd or 4th level can survive its perils if they are cautious and rest between encounters. I'd let them rest uneventfully as much as possible for sure and let them flee if things go south and they opt for a safe retreat. With the majority of the party being 2nd level, it can be challenging so you may want to lower the number of monsters in any encounter by at least one and give them the opportunity to level up early in the adventure after may be 1-2 encounters so they can be at least level 3 sooner than later.
Thanks, good ideas!