of Dice and Dragons

So often when you’re setting up a plotline or campaign as a GM we often lose sight of the fact that it is the players that need to get the most out of it, not the GM. I’m as guilty as the next when it comes to planning a plotline down to the last detail and then “steer” the players into it.

Trust me, it leads to players becoming bored, less that interested and may even lead some to find reasons not to play.

So you need to find a way to give the players choices in what they do while at the same time still have enough control to have them accomplish what it is you want/need them to. Believe it or not it’s not as tricky as you may think, provided you plan a bit upfront.

Take for example the classic dungeon crawl. In most setups the creatures are prearranged and if the party moves through the complex in the correct sequence you’re all set but if they deviate you’re up the creek. They may not find something they need for later or may not be able to get out of the level they are on.

So how can we change this to fit our needs as GM and still give the players a choice?

Use a flow-chart instead of a script.

Instead of laying out out your complex and placing each encounter, put your encounters on a flowchart and simply have the players encounter them in the sequence you want - forget where the encounters take place, concentrate on the actual encounter. Now the players are in the driver’s seat as to where they are going but you’re changing the landscape around them to fit the need of the story.

Feel free to post your ideas on giving players more choice, I’m sure everyone would benefit.

May your dice roll well.

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The Wizards of the Coast have released another installment of their new player series, this one focuses on race.

The article is a quick read but does cover a number of important points about making that all important decision, “what race do I want to be?”

It talks about taking into account the type of character you want to play, playing to a races particular strengths and gives ideas about some interesting combinations.

I would recommend anyone you plays D&D to take a look at the article - here.

May your dice roll well.

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Mention the term crusader and visions of knights in shining armor and the battles over Jerusalem come to mind. In fact the movie Kingdom of Heaven showed that very stereo-type.

Of course if that’s what you’re going for then by all means use it but as I’ve often stated in this series - you don’t have to do what’s expected.

A crusader is simply someone that’s on a crusade which can be defined as “A vigorous concerted movement for a cause or against an abuse.” as stated at Answers.com - so who’s to say that it has to be a knight, or even a warrior for that matter?

Also keep in mind that with the above definition it’s pretty easy to come up with some interesting twists which could make for some good role-playing sessions.

Remember as well that causes typically have multiple proponents (as well as opponents).

Here are a few ideas that you can use:

- An anti-magic group who are opposed to all magic as it is “evil.” The players could be targeted as “evil-doers” or get recruited by those opposed to the laws this group is trying to pass.
- A wizard on a crusade to better the lives of all by casting spells, free of charge. The players could be benefactors of this or be called upon to “teach this upstart a lesson!” Then again maybe they come to the aid of one side or the other during an altercation.
- The party is pulled into a growing war between wizards and clerics who each believe that their magic is the only true magic and the other should be wiped out.

If you’re running a more modern campaign just take a look at the new headlines for all sorts of ideas.

- Those opposed/for a conflict in another country
- Those opposed/for capital punishment
- Those opposed/for the rights of any particular group (race, social class, etc.)

As always I’d like to hear from you and get your thoughts on using The Crusader in your gaming sessions.

Be sure to check out these additional encounter ideas

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Check it out! My blog is now on Effie’s Great Wyrm site under the GM Guides and Toolkit, House Rules and Advice section.

You’ll want to check out the full listing in that section of the Great Wyrm site as there are lots of great sites that are part of the same group. Sites such as The Burning Void and Uncle Figgy’s site which I have found very beneficial to my own gaming.

Please take a moment and vote for my site by clicking the link in the right hand column - it’s much appreciated.

May your dice roll well!

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The latest issue of Role-playing Tips is now online -
Interesting Combats With Themed Skirmish Groups, Part 2.

The most recent issue of this e-zine finishes up the two part series by Johnn Four about themed groups. It also includes a few interesting reader tips and a new link section.

Contents:
–> A Brief Word From Johnn

–> This Week’s Tips:
7. Build The Skirmish Unit
8. Craft An Identity
9. Craft A Tactics Sheet
10. Prepare For The Encounter
11. GM It And Tweak

–> Readers’ Tips Of The Week:
1. A Clash Of Culture
From: Robert Hubbard
2. Lone Wolf Books
From: Thorsten Hunsicker, Germany
3. Minis Tip: Use Laser Pointers For Line Of Sight
From: Chris H.

You can read it online here.

If you don’t already subscribe I would recommend it, you can do that here.

May your dice roll well.

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