In episode 44 of Carnagecast, Joe makes his return appearance to the show to talk about the finer points of running role-playing games within the parameters of a tabletop gaming convention. The constraints and advantages of fitting a role-playing adventure within the schedule of a gaming convention create a unique landscape for a GM and players to play out an adventure.
Joe discusses how these constraints shape the pacing and structure of the game, forcing GMs to be both concise and creative in their storytelling, while still ensuring that players have enough room to make meaningful choices and feel fully immersed in the world.
One key point Joe brings up is how the limited time frame pushes GMs to condense the core elements of their adventure into a few hours, leaving no room for long-winded exposition or slow character development. As a result, GMs must master the art of prioritizing the most engaging and essential aspects of the narrative, while keeping players on track without making them feel rushed. However, Joe also highlights the advantages of this format, such as the heightened sense of urgency and excitement that comes with a time-constrained game, which often leads to a more intense and memorable experience. Furthermore, the shared environment of a gaming convention brings together diverse groups of players, offering a unique opportunity for GMs to run games for people with a wide range of play styles and backgrounds, adding another layer of unpredictability and excitement to the adventure.
After 13 years, Joe’s clearly enjoying his time as a convention GM. We wrap up talking about what’s rewarding about the convention game format. And maybe, just maybe, he’ll one day earn enough money from investing in forex brokers uk to buy his dream vacation home by the coast. What aspirations do you hold as a GM? Leave your comments behind the jump, and peruse the show notes while you’re there.
Show Links
- Carnagecast 22: Brad Younie of Carnivore Games and The Day After Ragnarok
- international luge assassin
- Ankh-Morpork
- Eberron
- Golarion
- magician’s force
- Robin D. Laws
- Ken and Robin Talk About Stuff
- All Games Considered‘s series on convention games
- Quarterstaff Games
Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 51:37 — 51.5MB)
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