My current idea for combat was this: The PC's are done as a single entity for combat purposes and so are bad guys. For example each PC contributes to the parties Hit Points, Initiative and Defenses based on their class. AC is 10, +1 for each PC in light armor, +2 for each PC in heavy armor, with another +1 for shields. If the bad guys beat that, they damage the group who have a pool of hp. Fights are basically roll initiative, both sides choose abilities and actions, roll attacks. One roll determines everything. For example you roll 3d6 to attack, and need to meet or exceed AC. Each PC with Rogue BAB contributes +1 to the roll, each PC with Fighter BAB adds +2. Damage is either low, medium or high die depending on party makeup and options chosen. If you roll doubles you crit. Class powers activate on specific rolls. For example if you roll a 16+ perhaps the Rogue adds his class level to the damage. If you roll evens the Cleric heals 2d6 to the party. This way you only need one party member to do combat rolls, but they can all participate in the story. All powers will be at will or once per encounter. Skill checks could be done the same with each member contributing to the roll. The goal being while you can all roleplay, combat is a quick thing done by whoever is on line at the time, and maybe both he and the DM do an agreed upon minimum (say 4 rolls) at that time. If both part and bad guys are still standing the DM and whoever is online next do more rolls (but really you shouldn't need more than 4).
