Mike and Ben talk about ways to improve your session whether you are a player or Dungeon Master. They talk about things they have seen in games they have been apart of as well as things they are trying to do to improve future games.
05/17/23 • 65 min
2 Listeners
Session Zero - S1-04: How to be a better player and DM
Transcript Summary
In this episode titled "How to be a better player and DM," the Session Zero podcast explores various aspects of playing and running tabletop role-playing games, specifically focusing on Dungeons and Dragons. The hosts emphasize the importance of context, communication, and providing goals for players. They discuss the challenge of portraying trauma respectfully and the need for players to be considerate of each other's enjoyment. The episode delves into conflicts between players and explores techniques to improve as both a player and a Dungeon Master (DM), including taking notes, debriefing sessions, and engaging players individually. The hosts also discuss the idea of giving quieter players a chance to shine and introduce sub-arc quests that focus on individual characters. The episode sheds light on the impact of dominant players on the game's direction, as well as the vulnerability and fear of judgment experienced by quieter players. They also touch on boundaries, the negative impact of player pranks, and the importance of setting expectations in a session zero. The episode concludes by highlighting the significance of enjoying the game and finding the right group for a positive experience. Overall, this podcast episode offers valuable insights and advice for players and DMs on how to improve and create an enjoyable tabletop gaming experience.
Transcript
You're listening to the session zero podcast, a weekly Dungeons and Dragons podcast where we analyze your games, your players, and especially your DM to see how our hobbies can be therapeutic and life changing.
Ben DinsmoreAll right, welcome back to session zero. Today we are talking about how to get better at being a TTRPG player.
Mike MahanYeah,
S1-04: How to be a better player and DM Top Questions Answered
How can I improve my gameplay and become a better player or Dungeon Master (DM)?
Understanding character goals and stakes, respecting and handling trauma, and being considerate of other players are important factors in becoming a better player or DM. Taking notes, debriefing after each session, and being mindful of the DM's efforts also contribute to improvement.
Why are backgrounds important in character development and how can they be neglected in the game?
Backgrounds provide depth and motivation for characters. They can be neglected in the game when players focus more on immediate plot or combat, overlooking the role backgrounds play in character development.
What can I do to prevent conflicts and tension among players in a tabletop role-playing game?
Creating a respectful and considerate environment, acknowledging and addressing animosity, and giving each player a chance to shine can help prevent conflicts and tension among players in a tabletop role-playing game.
How can I ensure quieter players have a chance to grow and develop their characters in-depth?
Individual sessions conducted for each player can provide quieter players an opportunity to grow and develop their characters in-depth. This allows them to have a spotlight and actively contribute to the game.
How can virtual sessions make it difficult to differentiate between players' voices and lead to confusion?
In virtual sessions, it can be challenging to distinguish between players' voices, which can cause confusion. This can be mitigated by using tools like video chat with clear audio, utilizing name tags, or employing virtual hand-raising features.
What are some strategies to avoid one player dominating a tabletop role-playing game?
Implementing sub-quests to give each player equal time in the spotlight, creating moments where each character becomes the central focus, and establishing clear boundaries can help prevent one player from overshadowing others in a tabletop role-playing game.
How can recognizing the seriousness and tone of a game through a session zero help avoid problems?
Having a session zero where players discuss the seriousness and tone of the game helps set expectations and avoid problems. This allows players to establish boundaries and prevent misunderstandings that may arise from different interpretations of the game.
What are some tips for being a better TTRPG player?
Understanding the story, knowing your character, comprehending the DM's intentions, taking notes, and debriefing as a group after each game session are important tips for becoming a better TTRPG player.
How can players and DMs maintain continuity and avoid misinterpretations in tabletop role-playing games?
Players and DMs can maintain continuity and avoid misinterpretations by subtly guiding players without directly telling them what to do, using questions to make them think from their character's perspective, and clarifying any misconceptions that may arise during the game.
How can I create a welcoming and inclusive environment at the tabletop role-playing game table?
Showing mindfulness, respect for the DM's effort, being considerate of other players' experiences, and creating a safe space where everyone's voices are heard contribute to creating a welcoming and inclusive environment at the tabletop role-playing game table.
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