Characters may seem powerful early on with fresh spells and abilities, but after multiple encounters - say the 4th fight in a dungeon - resources deplete. The fighter's shine dulls, spell slots run dry, and hit points tick down. This is where tactical positioning and clever thinking matter more than raw power. Yet this might be where the cleric and thief finally get their moment.
Managing Attrition
To minimize attrition, space out encounters generously and provide healing resources - potions, healing scrolls, spells, bandages, and mending supplies. Allow characters time to tend wounds between fights so they enter fresh. Include safe zones where the party can recover without pressure.
To maximize attrition, chain encounters relentlessly with minimal downtime. Make healing resources scarce or costly. Force the party to choose between using their healing magic offensively or defensively. Stack enemies that target different party types so everyone bleeds resources. Remember - a single night's rest only returns 25% HP, so attrition compounds fast. This forces desperate decisions and exposes vulnerabilities.
The key is matching your attrition level to what your party needs - new groups benefit from accessible healing while experienced players relish the resource puzzle of a brutal gauntlet.