Day 5 of #RPGaDAY2022 continues the over-arching topic of the first week: getting new people into RPGs.
After finding a group to teach, finding a location, and settling in on a game, all that's really left is today's simple question "Why Will They Like This Game?"
After running/teaching games for over 30 years, I'll use two words that I still continue to work on: Controlled Spontaneity.
When dealing with 4-6 players at the table, keeping them all engaged at some level is a high-difficulty task. With one or two high-energy character (or players) taking over the screen time of the game, it's paramount for the GM to always take a step back from time to time and check on the characters/player playing a background role. Simply acknowledging someone's existence is sometimes all a person needs to tolerate someone's shenanigans a bit longer.
But as a GM, you also need to expand the situation, if a player/you come up with a more fun alternative plan of attack. Adjusting the storyline on the fly is important to expand your own skill, and to see how the new players react to added pressure.
Remember, spontaneity is not the full improv "YES, and..." These actions should have possible consequences, even if they're not immediate. "YES, but.." helps nurture players make more inventive ideas, and even write their own doom when the dice don't fall where they should.
"Yes, Joey, the petting zoo adjacent to the property is not part of the DEA's search warrant. The drugs are safe."
MUCH LATER
"Sorry Joey, the only thing you find from the package of drugs in the animal pen is the packaging. It appears the alpacas ate all the psychotic hallucinogens. One of them is loose in the pen and is not too happy with you."
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