Comments on: How to kick up your game energy: meta-gaming edition

By: Ravyn

Ravyn — Wed, 05 Nov 2008 21:03:43 +0000

Heh; the ironic part is that my first featured post on the network was on battle that doesn’t just end in a win or a loss, and I’ve technically written about most of what’s been suggested. I’ve the advantage of running online, so my energy level really doesn’t influence the group’s all that much since they can’t see me–I wonder if half the problem is that I can’t see the group?

By: Nicholas

Nicholas — Wed, 05 Nov 2008 20:39:19 +0000

@Morten, Ravyn: I believe that the DM has the most tools available to him to raise the energy levels of the group. An enthusiastic player is a great thing but he has an unhill battle when dealing a disinterested DM. Of course if you have some ideas on how a player can help I’d love to hear them, my goal is usually to start a discussion.

@Ravyn: I’ve found that leader types who can influence the tactics of the whole group spice up combat for me to run. The use of traps and hazards can also make things more interesting. You can also create action situations other than combat, chase scenes, dangerous puzzles and any situation with a ticking clock can be very exciting. Failing that you might find that a different game system is more interesting to run.

By: Yax

Yax — Wed, 05 Nov 2008 18:03:18 +0000

@Ravyn: Introduce a new element in combat after 3-4 rounds, something that changes the battlefield or the goals the PCs are trying to achieve. It’ll keep things fresh and create some sweet, sweet chaos.

By: Janna

Janna — Wed, 05 Nov 2008 15:39:24 +0000

I have to agree with Nicholas about the importance of food at gaming sessions. Aggro gamers and low blood sugar don’t mix! I try to provide a mix of healthy and unhealthy fare; cookies for the junk food junkies and veggie trays for the diet-conscious. Pot luck events are even better.

And, yes, removing all shiny objects is a good idea, too. When I get bored, I start spinning the glittery d10′s like tops, and it just goes downhill from there.

By: Ravyn

Ravyn — Wed, 05 Nov 2008 10:02:46 +0000

I second Morten’s question, and would like to add an additional question: What recommendations do you have for the GM whose players are action-oriented but who loses interest in combat after about three or four rounds, so they’re the only one in the group who doesn’t seem to be having a blast?