Running role-playing games (RPGs) for larger groups can be challenging, but with the right strategies and tools, it can also be a rewarding and enjoyable experience for both the game master and the players. This article will explore some tips and tricks that can help game masters successfully run RPGs for larger groups, from managing logistics and communication to creating engaging and immersive game sessions.

Introduction

Running an RPG for a larger group can be intimidating but also a lot of fun. With more players come more possibilities for interaction and collaboration, as well as more challenges and complexities. However, it also requires different skills and approaches than running a smaller group game. This article will discuss some key strategies and best practices for running RPGs for larger groups.

Setting Up the Game

Determine the Group Size

The first step in setting up an RPG for a larger group is to determine the size of the group. While there is no definitive answer to what constitutes a “large” group, a good rule of thumb is considering a group of 6 or more players as large. This number may vary depending on the system and the game master’s preferences, but it’s important to have a clear idea of the group size before starting to plan the game.

Choose the Right System

The choice of the system can significantly impact the game’s success for larger groups. Some systems are better suited for larger groups than others, depending on the complexity level, the rules’ flexibility, and the ease of scalability. It’s important to choose a system that can accommodate a larger group without sacrificing the quality of the game experience.

Create a Session Zero

A session zero is a pre-game session that allows the game master and the players to discuss and establish the game’s rules, expectations, and goals. It’s especially important for larger groups, as it can help prevent misunderstandings and conflicts later on. During session zero, the game master can also gauge the players’ preferences and adjust the game accordingly.

Managing Logistics and Communication

Use Technology to Your Advantage

Managing a large group game can be challenging in terms of logistics and communication. However, many tools and platforms can help game masters streamline the process, such as virtual tabletops, chat programs, and scheduling apps. These tools can enhance the game experience by providing more interactive and immersive features.

Assign Roles and Responsibilities

Assigning roles and responsibilities to the players can help distribute the workload and ensure everyone is engaged and involved in the game. For example, the game master can assign a player as the “timekeeper” or the “note-taker” or delegate some of the rules adjudications to experienced players. This can also help create a sense of ownership and investment in the game among the players.

Encourage Communication and Feedback

Communication and feedback are crucial for running a successful game for a larger group. The game master should encourage open and respectful communication among the players and provide opportunities for feedback and suggestions. This can help address any issues or concerns that may arise during the game and ensure that everyone is having fun.

Creating Engaging and Immersive Game Sessions

Focus on Collaborative Storytelling

In a larger group game, shifting the focus from individual heroics to collaborative storytelling is important. This means encouraging the players to work together, share the spotlight, and contribute to the game’s narrative. The game master can facilitate this by creating opportunities for group decision-making, social interactions, and shared goals.

Use Props and Visual Aids

Props and visual aids can help enhance the game’s immersion and engagement, especially for larger

groups. The game master can use maps, miniatures, handouts, or music to create a more vivid and realistic setting. This can also help players visualize their characters’ actions and the environment and stimulate their creativity and imagination.

Vary the Pace and Intensity

Running a game for a larger group can sometimes lead to slower or less dynamic gameplay, especially during combat or other action scenes. To prevent this, the game master should vary the pace and intensity of the game and avoid long periods of downtime or inactivity. This can be achieved by adding time limits, increasing the number or complexity of enemies, or introducing unexpected events or twists.

Embrace Improvisation and Adaptability

Running a game for a larger group can also require a higher degree of improvisation and adaptability from the game master. More unpredictable actions and choices come with more players, and the game master should be prepared to respond creatively and flexibly. This means being open to unexpected outcomes, adapting the story to the players’ actions, and thinking on the spot.

Conclusion

Running an RPG for a larger group can be challenging but also a rewarding and exciting experience for both the game master and the players. By following the tips and strategies outlined in this article, game masters can successfully manage logistics and communication and create engaging and immersive game sessions. Remember to prioritize collaborative storytelling, use technology and visual aids, and embrace improvisation and adaptability.

FAQs

1. How many players are considered a “large” group for an RPG?

• While it may vary depending on the system and the game master’s preferences, a group of 6 or more players are generally considered “large” for an RPG.

2. What are some recommended virtual tabletops for running RPGs for larger groups?

• Some popular virtual tabletops include Roll20, Fantasy Grounds, and Tabletop Simulator.

3. How can the game master encourage collaboration among the players in a larger group game?

• The game master can facilitate group decision-making, social interactions, and shared goals and create opportunities for the players to work together and contribute to the game’s narrative.

4. How can the game master manage the pace and intensity of the game for a larger group?

• The game master can add time limits, increase the number or complexity of enemies, or introduce unexpected events or twists to vary the pace and intensity of the game.

5. What should the game master do if conflicts or misunderstandings arise among the players in a larger group game?

• The game master should encourage open and respectful communication among the players, provide opportunities for feedback and suggestions, and address any issues or concerns that may arise promptly and constructively.

Building shorter RPG campaigns can be a great way to provide a fun and engaging gaming experience for players without requiring a long-term commitment. Here are some tips for building shorter campaigns that can provide a satisfying experience in just a few sessions:

1. Choose a focused story. When building a shorter campaign, it’s important to choose a focused story that can be completed in a shorter period of time. Consider selecting a story that has a clear beginning, middle, and end, and that can be resolved within the 8 to 12-session timeframe.
2. Establish clear goals. At the beginning of the campaign, establish clear goals for the players to achieve. This can help provide direction and purpose and give players a sense of progress as they work towards completing the story.
3. Create interesting NPCs. Non-player characters (NPCs) can be an important part of any RPG campaign and can help provide depth and richness to the story. Create interesting NPCs that players can interact with and that can provide clues or guidance to help move the story forward.
4. Use pre-made adventures. If you don’t have the time or resources to create your own adventure, consider using pre-made adventures that are designed to be completed within a shorter timeframe. These can provide a great starting point and help ensure the story can be completed within the allotted sessions.
5. Include memorable encounters. Remember to include memorable encounters that players will enjoy and remember long after the campaign. These could include epic battles, puzzles, or unique environments that players must navigate.
6. Allow for player agency. Even in a shorter campaign, allowing players to make decisions and have agency in the story is important. This can help them feel more invested and engaged and provide a sense of ownership over the story.
7. Wrap up the story. At the end of the campaign, make sure to wrap up the story satisfactorily. Provide closure for the players, and ensure that all loose ends are tied up so that players feel a sense of accomplishment and completion.

In conclusion, building shorter campaigns for RPGs can provide players with a fun and engaging gaming experience without requiring a long-term commitment. By choosing a focused story, establishing clear goals, creating interesting NPCs, using pre-made adventures, including memorable encounters, allowing for player agency, and wrapping up the story in a satisfying way, you can create a satisfying and memorable RPG campaign.