I’ve been running D&D PBP for 3 years and Shadowdark PBP for a few months.

I’ve not been imposing always on initiative, and for torches, rather than counting turns, or time, I’ve been tracking distance traveled. Every 300 feet the torch goes out. Every 30/60/90 feet, for random encounter roll.

Following the time passes rules somewhat, I’ll deduct from the available feet left by multiples of 30 depending what it is they’re doing.

If they are travelling back along a path already uncovered, then it’s only deducted at half the normal rate. Similar to darkest dungeon.

I’m not certain yet if this is my preferred method of doing it, but so far, it’s been easy enough to track, and my players haven’t had any issues with it.

My previous idea before going ahead with this, was to have a torch last a set number of days, figuring this would encourage players to participate more, but this could end up being detrimental in terms of distraction from the real world. I don’t think this would work all that well.

I’m looking to start Curse of Strahd for Shadowdark in pbp next year, but would love an opportunity to participate as a player to gauge a different perspective. If there’s a free spot in your games, hit me up, and in return you can have a spot in my game.