Tips and tricks for RPG GMs
Every meaningful decision in an RPG arises from the interplay between knowledge and choice. Information empowers players to define their goals, explore alternatives, evaluate possible outcomes, and ultimately judge the best course of action. These four phases – defining, exploring, evaluating, and judging – form the core of informed decision-making. In the context of RPGs, …
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In tabletop roleplaying games, few moments are more satisfying than uncovering a hidden secret through clever investigation. For game masters, designing these moments can be a challenge – how do you craft clues that engage players and encourage them to think critically, without simply handing them the answers? The Matryoshka Technique, named after the iconic …
Read the full post →“The Art of Nested Clues: Exploring the Matryoshka Technique”
Mystery scenarios are among the most rewarding yet intricate genres for Game Masters to run. Their complexity lies in designing a compelling flow of information that challenges players without frustrating them. A successful mystery isn’t just about uncovering clues; it’s about interpreting them to piece together a coherent narrative. By categorizing information into Leads, Clues, …
Read the full post →“Mastering the 4 Types of Clues in RPGs”
In tabletop role-playing games, every story can ultimately be understood as a linear sequence of relevations – pieces of information passed from the game master to the players. These relevations, also referred to as secrets or conclusions, shape the players’ understanding of the game world, influence their choices, and drive the narrative forward. What Are …
One of the most exciting aspects of running a roleplaying game is guiding your players through a narrative full of mystery and intrigue. The discovery of leads and clues is a crucial part of this process, as it keeps players engaged, gives them a sense of accomplishment, and drives the story forward. However, designing these …
Read the full post →“9 Types of Investigation Scenes to Help Players Uncover Leads and Clues”
Seeding is a powerful tool that game masters can use to create narrative depth and coherence over the course of a long-term campaign. By introducing seemingly random details into early sessions, GMs can later tie these elements into the broader storyline, giving the illusion of an intricately pre-planned narrative. This technique can be used to …
Read the full post →“Seeding: Building Depth in Long-Term Campaigns”