Group rules

Here's a bit for the boring stuff before we get into having some fun.

The Dragonscale group is a casual gaming group rather than a structured one but it has always adhered to a common sense code-of-conduct. 

There are a few general things that I would ask everyone to be aware of regarding player conduct when at a Dragonscale table. I know I don't really have to say any of this, but a reminder is often useful for us to have. Please see below for some friendly reminders of quality-of-game-for-everyone stuff you already know:

General Player Conduct

I like to keep a friendly table and keep everything fun and free-flowing, whatever it is we're up to. It’s hugely important to me as a host or GM to ensure my players are comfortable and having a good time. To that end I insist that the following rules of conduct be followed during game-time:

• Try to show up on time to a game session. If life gets in the way (that's cool - we know sometimes it does) contact someone in the group so we know if/when to expect you and can arrange entertainment/food/transport etc. 

• Treat other players (and your GM) with the respect you would want for yourself.

• We play lots of different games and it's often the case that people are learning on the fly. Have a little patience with those around you if they are dealing with an unfamiliar game or rule-set.

• We sometimes cook, go out for food or get takeaway during game sessions. If you have certain dietary needs, let your host know. Nobody wants to make a player sick or leave a player going hungry.

• To speed the game along for everyone, try to have your actions ready when your turn comes around whenever possible.

• If you don't know how to play, ask for help! Don't worry, the group is always friendly and will be happy to give you a hand.

• If you don't like the game you're playing, let your host or GM know. We won't force anyone to play (unless you're playing Call of Cthulu, in which case it's only part of the creeping madness engulfing your group. (Knock Knock? Who's there? Hastur who??))

• Try not to tell other players what to do. It’s quite alright to discuss tactics, decide on actions as a group or coach other players but it is most definitely NOT okay to outright tell other players what they can and can’t do. If you don’t like a player's intended actions, convince them – don’t demand of them.

•  Put your mobile device down! Don’t play with your laptop, tablet or mobile phone at the table unless you’re looking up something relevant to the game. It’s hugely disrespectful to the efforts of your fellow players (or GM) to play computer games, listen to music, use social media, message other people or even make/take calls during a game session. feel free to use your devices to help you along with digital resources for the game but if you want to do other stuff that takes your attention away from the other players then please drop out of the game and let the others enjoy their game without delays or uninterruptions.

• If you need your phone handy for work or home responsibilities that’s OK, just make sure you are paying attention to your game and your friends around the table.

• We often play in one another's living spaces so please respect their living space by helping to clear up food/gaming stuff after the game. Don't go messing up anyone's crib - that ain't cool!

Role-Playing Game Conduct

Table manners are exceedingly important to the enjoyment of an RPG game. In addition to the above rules I'd also ask you to be mindful of the following when playing in an RPG with us:

• All players are equally important and bring something different to the table. Please don’t talk over your fellow players or diminish their input in any way.

• You aren't expected to know every rule in the system we're playing. All we ask is that you have a pretty good grasp on what your character can and can't do. If you are unfamiliar with the system we're playing, buddy up with someone who knows it better to help you through the session.  

• You don't need to act or use a funny voice during the game, but you are welcome to do so if you prefer. This is a game for fun, not a drama class, so don't feel pressured to 'act' your character if you don't want to. Just because we sometimes use funny accents doesn't mean you are obligated to as well.

• Try to get into the spirit of the setting. You'll have more fun that way and won't bring anyone else down.

• Pay attention to what’s going on around you. Try to stay engaged with the game – after all, you only get out of an RPG session what you put in.

• Speak up. If there’s something you want to do or something you’d like to clarify or say than take your opportunity to do or say it. As a GM I do not limit player actions (although I may coach against party-destructive, obviously self-defeating or similar actions).

•  If you need materials, make sure to let your GM know as early as possible. Often we can provide pencils, dice, minis, books, character sheets, notepaper etc. 

• The shortbread tax must be paid. I think this one is self-explanatory ;-)

For this group all of the above will be self evident. I can sum all of the above up in one simple sentence: "Don't be a disrespectful or disruptive d*ck!"  :)

Enjoy your games!