Tuesday, November 20, 2012

Say No

In recent years, the philosophy of “yes, but” has become a hot ticket for GMs. Let me assure you, this was not always the case. I’m reminded a bit of the way philosophies come into and out of fashion in business management (are you a one-minute manager in search of excellence?).

If that sounds dismissive, it’s not meant to be. There’s a lot to be said in favor of “yes, but.” As GM philosophies go, it’s better than most.

It can, however, become a trap for the unwary or overly generous GM who’s trying to build a world with a strong theme.

(Read the rest at Kobold Quarterly ...)

2 comments:

  1. I try to be as accommodating as the setting will allow, but only just.

    As a player, I am decidedly in Group 3. If another Group 3 player were in one of my games and the concept they brought to the table did not fit the setting, I would work with the player to find out what exactly interests them about the concept and then find that idea in another character type that fits the setting.

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  2. I've never enjoyed games with Group 3 players, whether I was playing the game or running it.

    I tried being a "Yes, but..." DM and hated the experience. Now I just say "No".

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