What are some common mistakes new GMs make?

Becoming a Game Master (GM) can be an exciting yet challenging experience. New GMs often face a steep learning curve, and it's common to make mistakes along the way. Here are some common pitfalls and tips on how to avoid them:

1. Over-Preparing

• Mistake: Spending too much time developing intricate plots and details that may never come into play.
• Solution: Focus on key story points and be flexible. Allow players to influence the narrative, which can lead to unexpected and exciting outcomes.

2. Ignoring Player Input

• Mistake: Not considering player backgrounds, motivations, or desires, which can lead to disengagement.
• Solution: Encourage players to share their character backstories and incorporate their arcs into the main narrative. This makes players feel valued and invested.

3. Railroading

• Mistake: Forcing players down a predetermined path without allowing for exploration or choice.
• Solution: Provide options and alternatives in the storyline. Let players make meaningful choices that affect the outcome of the game.

4. Being Too Strict with Rules

• Mistake: Rigidly enforcing rules without adapting to the flow of the game can create frustration.
• Solution: Be flexible when interpreting rules. Prioritize fun and storytelling over strict adherence to every rule.

5. Not Balancing Encounters

• Mistake: Creating encounters that are either too easy or too difficult, which can lead to boredom or frustration.
• Solution: Test encounters beforehand, and adjust difficulty based on player levels and abilities. Be prepared to modify encounters on the fly.

6. Neglecting NPCs

• Mistake: Failing to develop non-player characters (NPCs) can lead to a lack of depth in the story.
• Solution: Give NPCs distinct personalities and motivations. Use them to enhance the narrative and provide emotional stakes.

7. Poor Time Management

• Mistake: Sessions running too long or too short due to poor pacing or lack of organization.
• Solution: Plan sessions with clear objectives and time limits for each segment. Be mindful of pacing to keep players engaged.

8. Not Engaging All Players

• Mistake: Focusing on a few players while others feel left out can lead to disengagement.
• Solution: Ensure all players have opportunities to contribute and shine. Rotate spotlight moments to keep everyone involved.

9. Failure to Adapt

• Mistake: Sticking rigidly to the planned story, even when players deviate significantly.
• Solution: Embrace player creativity and adapt the story to incorporate their choices. This can lead to richer storytelling.

10. Being Unprepared for Conflict

• Mistake: Not anticipating player conflicts or disagreements, which can disrupt the game.
• Solution: Establish ground rules for discussions and conflicts before starting. Be ready to mediate and find solutions to keep the game flowing.

Conclusion

Becoming a successful GM takes practice and experience. By being aware of these common mistakes and learning from them, new GMs can create enjoyable, engaging, and memorable gaming experiences for their players. The key is to prioritize fun and adaptability, allowing the story to evolve naturally with player input.