Group Dynamics

An often overlooked component of a tabletop role-playing game is the group dynamics. While having a good game system, a cool campaign setting, and an awesome storyline are all important, the game will only be enjoyable if the attendees share a similar play style and etiquette.

Conventional tabletop role-playing games are about the interactive story that gets created by the GM and players. The story will only be fun if everyone is enjoying themselves during the sessions. Unfortunately, there were many instances in which that wasn't the case for me. In some games, I even regretted being there.

My approach to gaming would sometimes collide with that of the other participants. While some people focused solely on the tactical nature of the game system, I wanted to focus on the inner struggles of my characters.

The aforementioned disagreement illustrates the problems that arise from differing playing styles. While some people are willing to modify some aspects of their approach, expecting someone to completely change their entire style of play will lead to frustration.

Dissimilar etiquette can equally frustrate, if not anger, individuals during the game. The way a person behaves, and what they say, will greatly influence the experiences everyone has at the sessions.

Truthfully, there were some people I really enjoyed as both players and GM's but not could not stand outside those roles. Unfortunately, when you game with a person for four or more hours, there will be a lot happening outside of gaming.

Most everyone would, at one time or another, say or do things that made others uncomfortable. There were some, however, that were absolutely insufferable.

In those cases, the simplest and best solution is to move forward. Forcing an individual to change can easily lead to a complete disaster.

I have had to apply that principle several times. If the group dynamics were not working well, even after spending a lot of effort in it, I would just move forward and save myself the grief of seeing the problems escalate.

It all comes down to your enjoyment of the game. Are you content with the group's overall approach to gaming? What about their etiquette? If the answer to those questions is a resounding "no", moving forward may be the best option.