The Basics: 10 Tips for New GMs and DMs
Being a good Game Master (GM), Keeper of Arcane Lore, or Dungeon Master (DM) when running a Tabletop Role-playing Game (TTRPG) requires a combination of creativity, organization, and effective communication skills. Here are some tips to help you excel as a GM:
Understand the rules of the game: Before running a game, make sure you have a thorough understanding of the rules and mechanics of the game you will be using. This will help you make fair and consistent decisions during the game, and also ensure that the players are able to fully engage with the story and their characters.
Create a well-structured campaign: A well-structured campaign will help keep the players engaged and on track. This includes creating a clear plot, well-defined NPCs, and interesting locations for the players to explore.
Be flexible: While it's important to have a clear plan for the campaign, it's also important to be open to deviation from that plan. Players may surprise you with their choices and actions, so it's important to be able to adapt to those changes in order to keep the game engaging and exciting.
Encourage player creativity: A TTRPG is a collaborative storytelling experience, and players should be encouraged to bring their own ideas and creativity to the table. This will help them become more invested in the game and the story.
Communicate effectively: As a GM, it's important to communicate clearly and effectively with the players. This includes being able to explain the rules, mechanics, and story in a way that is easy for them to understand. It also includes being able to listen to the players and respond to their questions and concerns in a thoughtful and respectful manner.
Be fair and consistent: Players should feel like the rules and mechanics of the game are fair and consistent. This means that the GM should apply the rules and mechanics in the same way for all players, and should avoid showing favoritism.
Create a fun and immersive atmosphere: The goal of a TTRPG is to have fun and immerse the players in the story. To achieve this, the GM should create an atmosphere that is relaxed and enjoyable for everyone. This includes being open to humor and allowing the players to have fun with their characters.
Be prepared: Being prepared will help the game run smoothly and keep the players engaged. This includes having all necessary materials and props ready, having a backup plan in case of unexpected events, and being able to respond quickly to the players’ actions.
Be open to feedback: It's important to be open to feedback from the players, as it can help improve the game for everyone. This includes being willing to make changes to the campaign or rules if the players feel that something isn't working.
Have fun: Most importantly, remember to have fun! A TTRPG is a collaborative storytelling experience, and the GM should enjoy the experience just as much as the players.
In conclusion, being a good GM for a TTRPG requires a combination of creativity, organization, and effective communication skills. By understanding the rules, creating a well-structured campaign, being flexible, encouraging player creativity, communicating effectively, being fair and consistent, creating a fun and immersive atmosphere, being prepared, being open to feedback, and most importantly having fun, a GM can create an engaging and enjoyable gaming experience for all players.
If you have tips for newer GMs, let us know in the comments!
Thank you for stopping by the Inn at the End, don’t forget to subscribe to this blog and, if you’re into podcasts, be sure to check out Inn at the End on your favorite podcast app.
Grab your sword and keep on adventuring!
-The Inn Keeper-
Enjoy this content? Become an INN-habitant and never miss another episode by following us. We will never misuse or sell your information.