Our tips for your first RPG session
Want to launch your first role-playing game as a game master? Good news, you've come to the right place!
We've put together some tips and essential steps you need to follow to successfully organize your first session with your players.
Choose an accessible gameplay system
Even if you're an experienced player who's familiar with many rulesets, this may not be the case for the players who'll be following your session. As a game master, you play an important leadership role. Remember to make your gameplay system accessible.
If you're using Amsel Suite software, you can start with familiar gameplay systems, such as Dungeons & Dragons 5e, FATE Core or Call of Cthulhu, and personalize the mechanics.
Introduce players to your world
All good GMs should take the time to introduce their players to their world before starting a first session. This allows them to immerse themselves in your world and fully understand its possibilities and constraints.
If you're using Lore, our worldbuilding software, to develop your universe, you can read the synopsis of your world. This will enable you to keep it short and sweet.
Add player characters
Will you let players create their own characters, or will you use premade characters?
Regardless of which option you choose, add them to Tome, our storytelling dashboard role playing, as a memo. You'll then be able to summarize all the player characters' information.
If you decide to create your own player characters, be sure to leave a few aspects open, such as personality traits. Your players will feel more comfortable with their characters if they can tailor them to their playstyle and mood.
Launch your scenario
When you're ready, launch the scenario you've imagined for your players. You've probably been a player before you were a GM, so think of all the catchphrases and techniques you've heard that helped you get immersed in the session.
If you're using Tome, our storytelling software, you can easily follow the players' adventures and decisions. We recommend spending more preparation time in Tome if you're just starting out as a game master. It will be useful during the session to have everything at hand.
Use your imagination
You'll probably be overwhelmed by the questions and choices of your players during your first RPG session, but don't be afraid! Use your imagination and add elements as you go along.
Thanks to Tome's integrated personal messaging system, you'll be able to take note of all the new elements and place them in your scenario. This will enable you to pick up where you left off during your next session.
If you'd like to become a better GM, you can also check out our tips for improving your improvisation as a game master.
Don't forget that role-playing is all about getting together with friends and, above all, having fun!
