The action economy is a crucial aspect of tabletop RPG design, as it determines how players and NPCs can interact with the game world and each other during a round or turn.
The podcast episodes discuss how the action economy has evolved across different editions of D&D and Pathfinder, with some systems relying on a distinction between move actions and standard actions, while others have a more freeform approach.
The action economy also plays a key role in the use of abilities like Counterspell, which can impact the flow of combat and the use of spell slots. Additionally, the action economy is an area of concern in the Starfinder 2e playtest, particularly for certain character classes.
Understanding the action economy is essential for both players and game designers, as it can significantly affect the pacing, balance, and overall experience of a tabletop RPG.