How to think about practising and role playing?
Well, what does it mean to be good at an RPG? Basically, it means that, by your presence at the table, other people have a good time. As the DM you create a setup and run it so that the players have a good time. And as a player, by your actions, being proactive and thoughtful, you make it so that the DM and other players enjoy themselves.
Creating a detailed and intricate campaign setting means nothing if the players don't enjoy interacting with it. Getting your PC to level 20 doesn't matter if you're an arsehole and stop being invited to play.
So practice in the context of RPGs isn't really about getting good at the skills involved - doing voices, lateral thinking, puzzle solving, drawing maps, whatever - although those things all help. Instead, it's about being a better person. More engaged, more considerate, more amiable, more interesting and interested.
That's a good recommendation to take part in a hobby if ever there was one.
Geez, PAY ATTENTION at the table. Know what's going on and continue to imagine what your man would be thinking, doing, saying.
ReplyDeletePlay face-up whenever possible.
Even if your character is a scoundrel, be nice to your fellow players. And if he is a scoundrel, accept his just rewards without animus.
And PAY ATTENTION!!!
Complimentary to your point, I think good RPG players are good team players. This is an ensemble, not a soloist with backup singers.
ReplyDeleteOne rule of good play that I often share when sitting down at the table with new players is to not keep your plans secret from the group. As much fun as it is to pull the magician's grand reveal when your turn comes up, if you have some spell or ability that will help, throw it on the table so that everybody can factor it into the plan. That wand of fireballs you've been hiding behind your back isn't going to do anybody any good if they've all rushed forward to engage the monster in melee.