RPGnet Columns
08-26-2004, 05:34 PM
Post originally by thoth64024 at 2004-08-26 16:34:33
Converted from Phorums BB System
Great title. I wondered at first why it wasn't "for" dummies until I realized it wasn't a "how-to". It would be too harsh to call this a "how-not-to". Columns like this and Hack For More are really keen. I love hearing about other "average" gamers and their games. They're a nice break from all the social diatribes from gamers far more cultural and intellectual than I. I also love hearing about other DMs with high hopes for a good plot, only to have it de-railed by PCs who can't see further than the end of their sword +2.
"Thomas' player shows a spark of intelligence which would have gotten them by the encounter without a fight, and sped them along towards the plot. I quickly learn this isn't typical. I'm certain by now that he dodges the plot because he likes to see me work my on the fly GMing muscles, or just enjoys screwing with me. I'm not sure.
Jaj's player also sees the plot and the encounter. Without a second thought he chooses the encounter. This is typical of him, but unlike Thomas' player it is not by choice, but because he's 'in character'. The character of a hapless dimwit.
Hikaru's player also sees the plot, attempting to subdue the moron, but to no avail. He tends to go along with whomever leads at the moment, which for the most part means that he too runs from the plot. He also managed to score a critical hit, which I've added a small house rule to."
Just replace the names with characters and players in my games and you couldn't tell the difference. Love the house rule, btw... I'll have to steal that for my dungeons game!
Just keep swimming.
Converted from Phorums BB System
Great title. I wondered at first why it wasn't "for" dummies until I realized it wasn't a "how-to". It would be too harsh to call this a "how-not-to". Columns like this and Hack For More are really keen. I love hearing about other "average" gamers and their games. They're a nice break from all the social diatribes from gamers far more cultural and intellectual than I. I also love hearing about other DMs with high hopes for a good plot, only to have it de-railed by PCs who can't see further than the end of their sword +2.
"Thomas' player shows a spark of intelligence which would have gotten them by the encounter without a fight, and sped them along towards the plot. I quickly learn this isn't typical. I'm certain by now that he dodges the plot because he likes to see me work my on the fly GMing muscles, or just enjoys screwing with me. I'm not sure.
Jaj's player also sees the plot and the encounter. Without a second thought he chooses the encounter. This is typical of him, but unlike Thomas' player it is not by choice, but because he's 'in character'. The character of a hapless dimwit.
Hikaru's player also sees the plot, attempting to subdue the moron, but to no avail. He tends to go along with whomever leads at the moment, which for the most part means that he too runs from the plot. He also managed to score a critical hit, which I've added a small house rule to."
Just replace the names with characters and players in my games and you couldn't tell the difference. Love the house rule, btw... I'll have to steal that for my dungeons game!
Just keep swimming.