Want to design a game, run a session or play a character rooted in aspects of a culture not your own? There’s something you should avoid: exoticism. If you trot your fingers over to a Webster’s, it doesn’t sound so bad. Exotic stuff is unfamiliar! It’s really interesting! And alluring! It’s good to explore and enjoy cultures outside our own. It gives us a better understanding of the world and the people in it. It introduces us to incredible art, history, and achievements made by … [Read more...]
Your First Time GMing: Heading Behind the Screen
11 June 2011 by 3 Comments
Well, you may or may not know that I love writing mirror articles, and this week will demonstrate that fact. My last article was about becoming a player after being a GameMaster. This article will be about the opposite - becoming a GM when you've been a player. While I've never been in this situation - I pretty much started in the hobby as a GM - I've been asked for advice by many friends in this position. I hope to offer you some of my favorite best practices for running great games right … [Read more...]
Iconic Gameplay – Using the Icons of a Setting to Your Advantage
12 February 2011 by 5 Comments
There’s a scene that played out in one of my Star Wars games that I love to talk about. The player characters, accompanied by the mentor of the two Jedi in the group, were returning from a successful mission. They entered the master’s sanctum, only to find a dark Jedi waiting for them. The NPC was someone they’ve met and beaten before, a failed Jedi and a former student of their master. Their master, Depa Billaba, shook her head sadly. “I’ve told you Mirak,” she sighed. “I … [Read more...]
