The Action Economy Goldmine: How to Squeeze Three Turns Into One

Oct 13

Mike’s Personal Experience
There was once a wizard in our group known as “Three‑Turn Theo.” He’d cast Haste on himself, use Quickened Spell to fire off two big spells, then use a bonus action to hide behind my barrel chest. It felt like he took three turns to everyone else’s one. That’s the power of the action economy — it’s not about getting extra actions, but making each one count more than your opponents’.

Here’s how to strike it rich.

1. Cast Haste (5e)

Doubling your speed and granting an extra action (for one weapon attack, dash, disengage, or hide) is huge. Put it on a rogue or fighter for devastating results.

2. Use Quickened, Bounded, or Swift Actions

In PF2e, classes like magus, bard, and thaumaturge can cast quickened spells or use actions that don’t provoke.

3. Action Surge and Nova Rounds

Fighters in 5e get Action Surge, effectively doubling their actions for a turn. Combine with smites, sneak attacks, or Hunter’s Mark.

4. Plan Your Sequence

Don’t waste actions. In PF2e, your first attack uses your best bonus, so make sure it’s your heavy hit. Use quick buff spells as actions before attacking.

5. Aid, Flank, Then Attack

Spend an action to Aid an ally, granting them a bonus, then follow up with your own attack. Teamwork multiplies actions.

Don’t Waste Another Turn, Lad

Want to master time? Visit the Tavern Armory for items that grant extra actions, dig through GM Wisdom for advice on pacing turns, and share your time‑bending stories via Contact. Every second counts.