Look , you seem to have a misunderstanding that I have a way to play the game . I approach the game in just about every way possible as a player and DM . Then again , I do play about 50 hours per week . I ' m sure there are many DMs who aren ' t in control of the combat , but in 5 th edition a knowledgeable DM will make combat as hard or easy as he chooses . The guidelines allow the DM to control the difficulty of combat . I have parties that like to be challenged in combat and I have those who prefer little combat . I respond to the range of play . AND IN EVERY CASE THE PARTY MAKE UP MAKES NO DIFFERENCE IN THE DIFFICULTY OF THE COMBAT . I control the difficulty of the combat , and easily and immediately adjust things to make it as difficult or easy as I want . As any DM with a good grasp of the creatures and guidelines in 5 e can do .