Engaging your playersA consistently poor performance by a GM can (and should) quickly kill off any interest in a campaign. Avoid this by refusing to join the swollen, self-deluded ranks of bad GMs. The gray text monotone … Read the rest
Creating a dynamic campaign worldThrough action or inaction, player characters have an effect on the world around them. But unless that world is populated only by slumbering undead and ancient … Read the rest
The Alignment IssueAlignment definitions are frequently contested by players, gamemasters, and armies of frothing controversy addicts on social media, plunging discussions about what it means to be … Read the rest
Commitment, Mood and InspirationIt can be a struggle for anyone old enough to procreate to balance gaming commitments with the rest of their schedule. But usually a minimum attendance for players can … Read the rest
Miniatures, music, and the perils of gaming ‘aids’“I move six squares and attack the kobold!”
“That’s not a kobold, it’s a clockwork spider rat. I didn’t have a miniature for that.”
“Okay, I … Read the rest
Role-playing NPCsThe first major NPC of the campaign can influence future interaction between the GM and the players in a new group. Choice of personalities can subconsciously determine players’ respect for person behind the screen. … Read the rest
Introducing magic itemsThe giant corpse of a two-headed spiny dragonbear lies at the adventurers’ feet. Its minions, worshipers, and other unfortunate hangers-on are all dead too, strewn about in bloody bits. The ranger’s sixteenth shrub otter … Read the rest
Writing AdventuresStyle, pace and preparation are influenced by game session length, location and regularity. Longer sessions with a group of friends in a private home allow more involved role-playing and a more complex sandbox … Read the rest
Guiding player character creationWhen overseeing character creation, remember that the more obscure the player’s source material, the more work it is for the GM.
Balance flavor with demands. It’s okay to say no to the hengeyokai … Read the rest
Creating an RPG groupYou’ve been struck with inspiration! A world has unfurled beneath your fingertips! A fantastic realm rich with wonders, within which your god-mind will weave the greatest tales ever told! … Read the rest
