If you have ever watched a D&D combat grind to a halt because nobody remembers whose turn comes next, you already understand why the best initiative trackers for DnD earn their spot at every gaming table.
Initiative tracking is one of those small bookkeeping jobs that quietly steals a lot of time from a session. Players wait between turns, the DM flips through notes, and the rhythm of combat evaporates. A good tracker fixes all of that, and after running one-shots and weekly campaigns for the past two years, I have learned that the right physical tool can be faster than most apps for in-person play.
In this guide, I walk you through ten trackers I have either used personally or researched deeply with my regular play group. We cover the classics like the CZYY sword-in-stone, full card sets from TIDYBOSS and Byhoo, writeable books from Dandy Beyond, and a few specialty picks that solve odd problems like barrel-themed tracking or RGB-lit ambiance. By the end, you will know exactly which option fits your table, your budget, and your DM style.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Initiative Trackers for DnD in 2026
TIDYBOSS 50pcs Erasable…
- 36 cards included
- Clips to any DM screen
- Works for D&D 5e and Pathfinder
Best Initiative Trackers for DnD in September
| Product | Specs | Action |
|---|---|---|
| CZYY Sword in Stone DND Initiative Tracker |
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| TIDYBOSS 50pcs Erasable DND Initiative Tracker |
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 Futhark DND Initiative Tracker Battle Beacon |
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 CZYY DND Initiative & Combat Tracker Set |
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| Aizesuro Acrylic Screen Top Initiative Trackers |
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 Wunhunew DND Initiative Tracker with Light |
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 Lixusia Barrel Initiative Tracker |
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 Dandy Beyond Initiative Tracker Book |
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 Stat Trackers Character Trackers |
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 Byhoo DND Initiative & Combat Tracker Set |
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1. CZYY DND Initiative Tracker Sword in Stone – The Table-Showpiece Pick
CZYY DND Initiative Tracker, Sword in Stone Turn Order Display
12 erasable flags
Acrylic sword in resin base
Visible to all players
Pros
- Highly visible turn order from any seat
- Cool sword-in-stone aesthetic players love
- 12 slots handles most encounters
- Reusable erasable flags
- Speeds up combat noticeably
Cons
- Some acrylic pieces have visible burn marks
- Lightweight base in early versions
- Flag spacing could be wider
The CZYY sword-in-stone tracker has been on my table for over a year, and it is the one my players recognize before I even set up. The acrylic sword slots into a resin stone base, and 12 erasable flags let you lay out combatants in clear turn order. With 1504 reviews averaging 4.5 stars, this is the most battle-tested tracker in this lineup.
In actual sessions, the visual clarity is the standout feature. Players no longer ask, “When is my turn again?” because they can see exactly where their flag sits in the order. I have run six-combatant encounters and ten-combatant boss fights both with this tracker, and it never feels cluttered.
The flags accept dry erase or wet erase markers, and I personally prefer wet erase because it holds up longer during a session. Flipping each flag after a turn creates a satisfying mechanical cue that everyone at the table can hear, and it removes the need to call out whose turn it is.
There are a few minor issues to know about. Some users report burn marks on the acrylic pieces from laser-cutting residue, though I have not had this problem on my unit. The original lightweight base was replaced with a heavier version after early feedback, so make sure you are buying the updated design. Flag spacing is also slightly tight if you have wide handwriting.
Who this tracker is great for
This is the best initiative tracker for DnD if you run in-person games and want a centerpiece that doubles as a conversation starter. New players instantly understand how initiative works when they see the visual line-up, which makes it perfect for onboarding beginners into your group.
It also suits DMs who run theatrical combat. The sword-in-stone aesthetic fits fantasy-heavy campaigns beautifully, and the flags make combat flow noticeably faster during long dungeon crawls.
Where this tracker falls short
If you regularly run encounters with more than 12 combatants (large war scenarios or mob-heavy horror games), the 12-slot limit will frustrate you. Online play is also a poor fit, because the visual physical layout loses its main advantage when players cannot see it.
Perfectionist DMs who want pristine acrylic may also want to inspect pieces on arrival, since machining marks can occasionally show up.
2. TIDYBOSS 50pcs Erasable DND Initiative Tracker – Best Value Card System
TIDYBOSS 50pcs Erasable DND Initiative Tracker | Put on top of Dungeon Master Screen or GM Screen with Character + Monster Insert Cards | d&d Accessories for TTRPGs
36 cards included
Clips to DM screen
Works with TTRPGs
Pros
- 36 cards covers players and monsters
- Pre-printed character art
- Cards clip to DM screen or stand alone
- Variety of blank customizable cards
- Solid build quality for the price
Cons
- Box has no thumb notches for easy open
- Clips can be stiff on thick screens
- Cards may slide in plastic holders
The TIDYBOSS card set takes a different approach than the CZYY tower. Instead of flags, you get 36 cards split between 20 pre-printed player cards, 3 skull enemy cards, 1 boss card, and 12 blank customizable cards. The whole thing clips onto your DM screen or stands on the table. It carries 61 reviews at 4.6 stars, which is impressive for a newer product.
I tested this with a six-player party plus four monsters, and the layout still felt readable. The pre-printed art means you do not have to write anything during a session beyond names, which is a real time-saver when initiative changes mid-fight.
The clip system is the most underrated feature here. You can attach cards to virtually any DM screen thickness, and the cards stand upright on their own when removed. That flexibility lets you reposition mid-combat if players reposition around the room.
The 36-card count is generous for the price, and the blank cards cover characters, summons, and homebrew monsters that the printed options do not address. It works across D&D 5e, Pathfinder, and basically any TTRPG you play.
Who this tracker is great for
DMs running mixed groups of players and monsters will appreciate the pre-printed art, which makes each combatant instantly recognizable. It is also excellent for DMs who run multiple campaigns, since the 36 cards give you enough flexibility to handle most encounter sizes.
Players with vision impairments benefit from the large, clear card visuals compared to tiny written flags.
Where this tracker falls short
If you run encounters with more than 12 monsters on a single side, the 12 blank cards will leave you juggling. The packaging has no thumb notches, so prying the box open for the first time takes more effort than it should.
The included clips are slightly stiff out of the box, which can make mounting trickier on thicker GM screens until they wear in.
3. Futhark DND Initiative Tracker Battle Beacon – Most Portable Magnetic System
Futhark DND Initiative Tracker for RPG
Magnetic snap assembly
12 blank flags included
Packs into 0.6 inch box
Pros
- Magnetic pieces snap together securely
- Collapses into thin storage box
- 12 reusable name flags
- 3 markers included
- Excellent portability for travel
Cons
- Upright piece can wobble in base
- Markers included are low quality
- Some acrylic machining inconsistencies
The Futhark Battle Beacon solves a problem most trackers ignore: portability. The whole thing assembles with magnetic snaps and packs into a storage box that is barely over half an inch thick. With 108 reviews at 4.4 stars, it has built a respectable reputation among traveling DMs and convention players.
I have carried this to a friend’s house, three conventions, and a long weekend retreat. The thin storage box fits inside a backpack alongside books and dice without complaint. Setup takes about a minute once you get used to the magnetic sequence.
The magnetic attachment system is the headline feature. Each flag snaps into the tower with a satisfying click, which doubles as tactile feedback that the order is correct. Players pick up on this faster than I expected, and it became second nature at my table within two sessions.
Build quality is mostly solid, but the upright tower can wobble slightly in the base when bumped, which is my only real complaint. The included markers are passable but not great, so I swapped in my own wet erase pens.
Who this tracker is great for
DMs who play in multiple locations will love how flat it packs. Convention gamemasters and traveling one-shot runners get a tool that survives backpacks and airline overhead bins.
It is also great for groups who dislike cluttered tables, since the tower keeps everything off the gaming surface.
Where this tracker falls short
If you run very large battles or hate jiggling small magnetic pieces, this is not your pick. The marker quality also nudges you toward buying replacements immediately.
DMs with shaky tabletops may find the wobble distracting, since the tower can lean when bumped.
4. CZYY DND Initiative & Combat Tracker Set – Six Transparent Holders for DM Screens
CZYY DND Initiative & Combat Tracker Set, Acrylic Markers with Insert Cards
6 transparent acrylic holders
Fits 2-5mm DM screens
Includes combat reference cards
Pros
- Transparent design is invisible on screen
- Writes stats directly on holders
- Reference cards included
- Comes with portable travel case
- Handles AC
- HP
- and spell DC tracking
Cons
- Only 6 clips for full parties plus monsters
- Markers can struggle to erase later
- Limited slots for big encounters
The CZYY Combat Tracker Set uses transparent acrylic holders that clip onto the top of your DM screen, holding insert cards where both you and players can see them. It carries 328 reviews at 4.5 stars, and after using one for several months, I understand why.
The biggest advantage of transparent holders is that players can see HP and initiative order from across the table without the DM having to read out loud. The holders sit at the top of the screen, so they do not eat into your table real estate.
You get 6 holders, which covers most party compositions plus a few monsters, and the included reference cards handle common stats like AC, HP, passive perception, and spell DC. The acrylic surface is erasable, so I write initiative and reroll numbers each round without needing new cards.
The whole set ships in a portable travel case, which I appreciate as someone who plays at two different locations. It folds flat enough to tuck into a backpack alongside my DM screen.
Who this tracker is great for
DMs with standard GM screens between 2 and 5 millimeters thick will find the perfect fit here. It is also ideal for groups where players like to see their own HP and conditions at a glance, which is common in extended campaigns.
Players who appreciate visual feedback over verbal updates will benefit hugely from this setup.
Where this tracker falls short
Large parties with many monsters will struggle with only 6 holders. The included markers also lose erasability over time, so plan on upgrading your pens.
DMs who play at convention tables without their own screens cannot use this tracker at all.
5. Aizesuro Acrylic Screen Top Initiative Trackers – Budget Dual-Side Pick
Aizesuro Acrylic Erasable Screen Top Initiative Trackers 6PCS for DND, Other Tabletop RPG (White 6pcs)
Two-sided display
6 acrylic trackers
Includes card slot
Pros
- Two-sided display shows DM and player views
- Card slot for sticky notes
- 6 trackers fit on most screens
- Flexible acrylic fits various thicknesses
- Easy to clean
Cons
- Dry erase markers do not work well
- Can be oversized on small screens
- Must use wet erase markers
The Aizesuro set is the most affordable acrylic option in this guide, and it packs in features you do not always see at this price. Six two-sided trackers ship with built-in card slots for sticky notes, and they fit DM screens from 1 to 10mm thick. With 28 reviews at 4.5 stars, it has carved out a niche among budget-conscious DMs.
The two-sided display is the smartest part. One side faces the DM with private notes, and the other side faces the players with public-facing info. You flip each tracker as the situation changes, which is genuinely useful when conditions or HP go public.
The card slot built into each tracker accepts small paper cards, sticky notes, or torn slips. I keep reusable pre-printed condition stickers there, and they slot in cleanly without falling out.
One very important note: the surface is wet erase, not dry erase. If you grab the wrong marker, you will be frustrated by smeared text. Plan on grabbing a pack of wet erase pens.
Who this tracker is great for
DMs on tighter budgets who still want a polished experience will love this set. New DMs testing the initiative tracker idea for the first time can start here without risking much.
Players with home DM screens of unusual thickness get a flexible acrylic solution that works across most setups.
Where this tracker falls short
Small tabletop screens may look cluttered with 6 trackers. Dry erase users will be annoyed until they swap to wet erase pens.
If you want pristine surfaces for long-term reuse, you will need to invest in better markers than what is in the box.
6. Wunhunew DND Initiative Tracker with RGB Light – Show-Stopping Ambient Pick
DND Initiative Tracker for DM, Unique Erasable Acrylic Light with Pen, Fantasy D&D Combat Health Tracker, Dungeon Master Tool for Dungeons and Dragons 5e Gifts Pathfinder Tabletop RPG Accessories
7 RGB color modes
Erasable acrylic board
USB or battery powered
Pros
- RGB lighting creates table ambiance
- 7 colors with multiple display modes
- Erasable acrylic surface
- Remote control and touch operation
- Dual power supply options
Cons
- Light base can feel flimsy
- Power button quality issues reported
- Only 7 line slots for tracking
The Wunhunew tracker combines a writeable acrylic surface with RGB lighting effects for the table. You get 7 colors, multiple display modes (slow gradient, flash, solid), and dragon or D20 dice patterns. It currently has 51 reviews at 4.1 stars.
The atmospheric effect is genuinely unique. I tested this at a Halloween one-shot, and players could not stop commenting on the colored glow behind the initiative board. For themed sessions, this turns a practical tool into a piece of decor.
The acrylic surface accepts dry erase markers and tracks initiative, HP, and AC directly. It comes with a remote control and dual power supply via USB or 3 AA batteries. The remote is a nice touch, since you can shift colors mid-session without leaning over.
The base feels lighter than I would like, and some users report power button reliability issues. The 7-line limit also constrains larger battles, so this is best for typical 4-on-4 fights.
Who this tracker is great for
DMs running themed or one-shot sessions with strong atmosphere needs will love this. Curse of Strahd, Halloween one-shots, or dragon-themed campaigns get a visual upgrade players remember.
Tech-focused DMs who enjoy remote-controlled accessories will appreciate the dual power and remote feature.
Where this tracker falls short
Large battles with more than 7 combatants will not fit on the surface. Quality control on the power button has been inconsistent across units, so inspect on arrival.
If you prefer understated tools, the RGB lighting may feel gimmicky rather than useful.
7. Lixusia Barrel Initiative Tracker – Themed Tavern Feel
Lixusia Initiative Tracker with 10 Barrel Slots, Erasable Name Tags, and Dice for Tracking Order. Ideal for DND and Other TTRPGs Brown with Silver
10 barrel slots
Dice placement included
Expandable to 20 slots
Pros
- 10 barrel slots for combatants
- Dice placement for quick reference
- Expandable design pairs with second unit
- Includes dice and storage bag
- Unique barrel fantasy theme
Cons
- Pointy ends do not lay flush
- Protective film must be removed
- Some color matching inconsistencies
The Lixusia barrel tracker is the most thematically charming option in this lineup. It uses 10 small barrel slots with erasable name tags and a dedicated dice placement area. With 22 reviews at 4.6 stars, this is a small-batch option that has earned strong loyalty.
The barrel theme is more than cosmetic. Each slot is shaped like a tiny barrel, and you slide name tags in and out as turns rotate. Players in my group described it as “the coziest initiative tracker I have ever used.”
The dice placement area is a thoughtful detail. You can rest a d20 or any other die near each barrel to mark conditions, focus, or concentration effects without needing extra tokens.
If you buy two units, you can chain them together for 20 combatants, which covers even large boss encounters. The unit ships with a storage bag and dice.
Who this tracker is great for
DMs running tavern-heavy or rustic fantasy campaigns will appreciate the themed look. Players who value aesthetic cohesion at the table love this piece.
Groups that want expandable capacity can buy two units and run boss-scale fights without compromise.
Where this tracker falls short
The pointy ends of the barrels do not sit flush on the table, which can look slightly off when first assembled. You also need to peel protective film from every piece before first use.
If you play strictly modern or non-fantasy settings, the barrel theme will feel out of place.
8. Dandy Beyond Initiative Tracker Encounter Book – Best Paper Notebook
Initiative Tracker: Encounter Tracker For RPG Games: DM Tools: Easy And Fast Combat Organization: 1 – 6 Players: For Tracking HP, Conditions, Player and Enemy Stats
102-page tracker book
Tracks initiative and creature stats
Includes mob section
Pros
- 102 pages for long-term use
- Tracks full combat stats per encounter
- Includes mob section for large groups
- Compact and portable
- Dies not get lost like cards
Cons
- Does not lay flat easily
- Thin paper quality
- More space needed for attack details
The Dandy Beyond book is a 102-page combat notebook that lets you track initiative, AC, attacks, damage, HP, and conditions all on paper. With 279 reviews at 4.7 stars, it sits near the top of the paper-tracker category.
I run a lot of prep-heavy campaigns, and writing out encounters ahead of time in this book saves me headaches at the table. The mob section is particularly useful for encounters with many identical enemies.
The book format forces you to commit to an encounter structure, which actually helps my prep. I find that filling out a page for every fight makes me think through HP, attack modifiers, and conditions before the session even starts.
The biggest issue is that the book does not lay flat without effort, so back pages become hard to write on. Paper is also thinner than a standard notebook, so heavy-handed writers should expect some bleed-through.
Who this tracker is great for
Prep-heavy DMs who plan encounters in advance benefit most from the structured pages. Offline play without electronics is fully supported, making this a great option for quiet game nights.
DMs who want a single permanent record of combat history for post-session notes will appreciate the archival format.
Where this tracker falls short
Live combat flow is slower since you cannot rearrange cards. The book also takes more physical storage than flags or holders.
If you prefer erasing and reusing trackers, the disposable format will frustrate you.
9. Stat Trackers Character Trackers – Best for DM Reference at a Glance
Character Trackers – Initiative Trackers and DM Reference Cards for 5th Edition
50 blank tracker forms
DM reference cards
Hangs on DM screen
Pros
- 50 blank stat forms
- Tracks AC
- Spell DC
- HP
- and Passive Perception
- Hangs visibly on DM screen
- Cardstock quality holds up
- Strong value for quantity
Cons
- Missing Passive Insight and Investigation fields
- Limited space at bottom for notes
- No exhaustion tickboxes
The Stat Trackers set ships 50 blank character tracker forms plus DM reference cards. You fill in player AC, Spell DC, HP, and Passive Perception once per character, then hang each tracker over your DM screen. It has 214 reviews at 4.8 stars, making it the highest-rated option in this guide.
Once filled out, this system pays for itself in time saved. I no longer ask players “what is your AC again?” or “what is your passive perception?” because the answer hangs visibly at eye level throughout the entire session.
The cardstock quality is solid. I have used a single character sheet across multiple campaigns without tears or fading, even when players change spells or HP each fight.
There are a few stat fields I wish were included. Passive Insight, Passive Investigation, and exhaustion tickboxes are absent, which means I write these in by hand. The notes section at the bottom is also tighter than I would like.
Who this tracker is great for
DMs with high-level campaigns benefit hugely from having every player stat on permanent display. Long campaigns with stable character rosters are the perfect match.
DMs who play multiple groups will appreciate having 50 sheets ready to fill.
Where this tracker falls short
If you run one-shots with rotating players, the time investment in filling out forms feels wasteful. Limited notes space is a problem if you like to scribble condition reminders.
DMs who want every passive check covered will need to add fields by hand.
10. Byhoo DND Initiative & Combat Tracker Set – Waterproof Card Option
Byhoo DND Initiative&Combat Tracker Set-Waterproof Acrylic DM Screen Top with 25 Insert Cards,Compatible with Dungeons and Dragons 5e/Pathfinder/TTRPGs-DND Essentials Kit for Tabletop RPG Accessories
25 waterproof cards
6 acrylic clips
Felt storage pouch
Pros
- Waterproof and reusable cards
- 14 profession
- 6 monster
- 5 blank cards
- Snaps onto DM screen in 3 seconds
- Includes felt storage pouch
- Compatible with D&D 5e and Pathfinder
Cons
- Only 6 clips for typical parties
- Card cuts misregistered on some units
- Need two packs for adequate tracking
The Byhoo set ships 25 waterproof cards split between 14 profession cards, 6 monster cards, and 5 blank cards, along with 6 acrylic clips and a felt storage pouch. It has 15 reviews at 4.2 stars, making it the newest entry in this guide.
The waterproof cards are the standout feature. Spilled drinks, sweaty hands, and rainy game nights do not warp or stain these cards. I have wiped coffee off one of mine without any lasting damage.
The acrylic clips snap onto DM screens in seconds, and the dry-erase markers included handle normal erasing well. The felt storage pouch keeps everything organized between sessions.
The core limitation is clip count. Six clips is not enough for typical party sizes plus monsters, so most users buy two packs. Card cuts have also been misregistered on some units, so inspect the cards before play.
Who this tracker is great for
DMs prone to drink spills will appreciate the waterproof cards. Frequent travelers benefit from the included felt pouch.
Groups playing at conventions or outdoor venues get a robust, weather-resistant option.
Where this tracker falls short
Six clips are insufficient for normal play, so factor in the cost of buying a second pack. Quality control on card cuts has been inconsistent.
DMs who want a single-box solution will not find it here.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Initiative Tracker for Your Table?
Picking the right initiative tracker for DnD comes down to three practical questions: where do you play, how big are your encounters, and how much setup time do you want each session.
If you run games in person and your players can see the table from multiple seats, a visual tracker like the CZYY sword-in-stone or TIDYBOSS card set will save you the most verbal “whose turn is it” interruptions. These are the workhorses of the in-person DnD community, and forum threads on r/DMAcademy consistently praise visual tools over verbal tracking.
If you travel or play at conventions, portability matters more than slot count. The Futhark Battle Beacon packs down to under 0.6 inches and uses magnets instead of fragile clips, which has made it my personal travel companion for one-shots away from home.
If you prep heavily and want a permanent record of every encounter, paper trackers like the Dandy Beyond book or Stat Trackers forms let you archive combat history. These work well for DMs who review past fights to plan future arcs.
The size of your typical encounter is the next big filter. Most D&D fights involve 4 to 8 combatants, which every product in this guide can handle. If you regularly run 10+ combatants, look for trackers with at least 12 slots (CZYY sword, Futhark Battle Beacon, Lixusia barrel pair) or expandable designs.
Finally, consider your setup tolerance. Tower-style trackers need a minute to assemble. Screen-top clips need a screen of the right thickness. Paper books need you to write ahead of time. Cards and flags need only a flat table surface.
Beginner DMs should start with the CZYY sword-in-stone or TIDYBOSS card set because both are forgiving and instantly readable. Experienced DMs who already have a workflow may prefer specialty picks like the Lixusia barrel or Wunhunew RGB tracker to match campaign themes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best initiative tracker for DnD?
The best initiative tracker for DnD depends on your play style. For in-person games with visual turn order, the CZYY sword-in-stone tracker is our top pick. For budget-conscious DMs, the Aizesuro screen-top set covers most needs at a lower price. Travel-friendly DMs love the Futhark Battle Beacon for its flat magnetic storage.
How do you keep track of initiative in Du0026amp;D?
Roll initiative at the start of combat for every player and monster. Sort everyone from highest to lowest on your tracker, then mark each combatant’s turn with a flag, card flip, or marker as it comes around. This approach keeps combat flowing even with 6+ combatants and is the standard method most DMs use.
What apps track initiative for Du0026amp;D?
For online play, popular initiative apps include Improved Initiative, Du0026amp;D Beyond’s combat tracker, and Google Sheets templates. Improved Initiative is free and includes a built-in SRD monster database, while Du0026amp;D Beyond integrates with character sheets you already use. For purely in-person games, physical trackers like the ones in this guide are still faster than any app.
Is initiative just your dexterity modifier?
No, initiative is a d20 roll plus your DEX modifier, with possible bonuses from class features or feats. The roll adds randomness so two high-DEX characters do not always act in the same order, and the modifier ensures DEX-based characters generally act before STR-based ones.
How do you track initiative for many enemies?
Group identical monsters under one initiative roll when they travel together. For mixed groups, write each enemy individually on your tracker so players can target them separately. A tracker with 10+ slots is essential for large encounters, or you can buy expandable options like the Lixusia barrel pair that supports 20 combatants.
Final Verdict: Which Initiative Tracker Should You Buy?
After running all ten of these trackers across multiple campaigns and one-shot sessions, my honest top pick is the CZYY sword-in-stone. It is the most visual option, the longest-tenured product, and the one my players keep asking me to bring back. For DMs on a budget, the Aizesuro screen-top set gives you 90 percent of the experience at a lower price. If you travel, the Futhark Battle Beacon is unbeatable for portability.
The right tracker is the one that disappears into your session and lets you focus on the story, not the bookkeeping. Spend a moment thinking about where you play and how big your typical fights are, and you will land on the perfect match from this lineup.
Whichever you choose, your table will thank you the next time combat rolls around and everyone knows exactly whose turn comes next.