Jackmonkey Games and Media

Category: Role Vs Roll

  • Reverse Railroading GM Technique

    Before we talk about reverse railroading we need to talk about what is railroading.

    Railroading is a commonly debated and somewhat controversial game-mastering method in the realm of tabletop role-playing games (RPGs). In this approach, the Game Master (GM) exerts a high degree of control over the game’s narrative, often guiding players along a predetermined plot or story path. This term derives from the idea that players are metaphorically placed on a “railroad track,” with limited freedom to deviate from the planned storyline.

    In a railroaded campaign, the GM meticulously designs the game world, plot events, and encounters, leaving little room for player improvisation. The storyline unfolds with a predetermined sequence of events, and players are expected to follow along. While this method can ensure a tightly woven narrative with well-defined arcs and dramatic moments, it can also lead to player frustration if they feel their choices and creativity are stifled.

    Railroading is a divisive technique; some players enjoy the structured experience it offers, appreciating the clear objectives and storyline, while others prefer a more open-ended, player-driven approach where their decisions have a more significant impact on the game world.

    The Reverse Railroad game master technique

    Balancing railroading with player agency is crucial for a successful RPG experience. Experienced GMs may employ railroading selectively, using it sparingly to maintain the overall narrative while still allowing players to explore and make meaningful choices. Ultimately, the choice of whether to use railroading in an RPG campaign should be made with the player’s preferences and the game’s overall goals in mind.

    The Reverse Railroad

    So what happens when a Gamemasters needs a specific end and yet wants to give the players control of how they get to there? This is where the reverse railroad comes in.

    The reverse railroad GM technique is where you provide a scene similar to many of the crime dramas on TV. The players are looking over the body of the Queen who was obviously stabbed in the back with the rouge’s knife. The King walks in and catches the players over the body…… “Two Days Before”

    Setting Up a Reverse Railroad

    It’s all about expectations and fun! Think about the movie Titanic. The ship sinking wasn’t considered a spoiler because the interest lay in how it happened and who survived. The same principle applies to reverse railroading.

    When setting up the reverse railroad, you need to be clear with the players:

    • What will happen at a certain point
    • What control they have in their methods of reaching that point
    • Rewards for not exploiting their knowledge of how the session ends
    • Penalties for using that knowledge
    • Extra bonuses for making it seem seamless

    For example, in the last episode of the Star-Fall Actual Play podcast Season One, the players were told that the villain “Jeramia Lightfoot” had “plot immunity” because he is a key character much further down the plotline. While they needed to fight him, they could not kill him. As the GM, I would alter the effects to make sure he survives:

    • Players were aware they could not kill him.
    • Players were told he, however, could kill them.
    • Players would be given extra XP for finding a reason not to perform the “deathblow” if they knocked him out (“You deserve to die, but that is not justice” or “I pull the trigger at the gun pointed at his heart, and it goes… click”).
    • Players were not told how they would get there or what would lead to that point, only that there would be a fight, and he could not die… wound, capture, maim, yes… die, no.

    While I expected the players to resist this, they loved it. They knew before the game even started what was going to happen, but not how it would happen.

    Tips for Running a Reverse Railroad

    1. Communicate with Players: Don’t surprise the players with a reverse railroad. Let them know that it will happen and give them time to think about it. This is not something you want to announce at the beginning of a battle. It should be done at the start of the session (or earlier).
    2. Reward Pretending and Roleplaying: Be generous with rewards for pretending and roleplaying. Extra XP, magic items, etc., are all appropriate rewards for good roleplaying.
    3. Reward Not Exploiting Future Knowledge: Be generous with rewards for not exploiting future knowledge.
    4. Penalize Exploiting Future Knowledge: Warn players about strict penalties for exploiting future knowledge. For example, just because a player knows they’re alive in a future scene doesn’t mean they won’t suffer significant setbacks if they exploit this knowledge.

    Reverse railroading can create memorable and engaging sessions when done right, providing structure while still allowing for player creativity and agency. By balancing predetermined outcomes with player-driven actions, you can craft an exciting and dynamic RPG experience.

    This blog post was sponsored by “Lithgow Tech Services” builders of custom gaming computers https://www.lithgowtech.com

  • How to play an asshole and have the other players not hate you.

    The whole point of Role playing games is to play someone you are not. This is why a lot of people like to play Fighters or Wizards. Me I like to role-play asshole character, you know those people who you rather not spend any time with. T
    he problem is that a lot of the players like to do carbon copies of the “Wolverine” basically an asshole. But they do this in a way that makes the other players not want to play with them.

    When playing an asshole give them a reason

    “Logan” has been done to death. Friends don’t let friends play another Logan. I say this because most of the time the people that are attracted to playing a Logan character are not really thinking about their character backstory beyond the whole orphan with no memory and claws bit.

    Having a good backstory about why your character is an asshole is important because it not only makes your character more interesting but will give you more to draw from.

    For example Jaro my Wood elf Ranger is not a likeable person. He was in the last Orc war and had seen a lot of bloodshed. He saw the forest that he loved being burnt to the ground to gain a tactical advantage. And while he did fight the Orcs he never blamed them for the bloodshed. To this day he will treat an orc with the respect they deserve (They did not order the burning of the forest)

    Jaro does not like people or cities and is really grumpy when he has to deal with either. He is happiest when he is resting in the forest with his Mastiff Sono

    Now that we have his backstory this gives me a reason for his actions. Generally I make him grumpier when in the city and more relaxed in the forest.

    But how to keep the other players from hating you?

    I have seen this a hundred times. Someone decides they are going to play and asshole so they can get away with being a total jerk to the other players. No not their characters but the players. And the moment someone calls them on their bad behaviour they say “But that is what my character would do” (In other words I’m not going to be accountable for my behaviour and fuck you) Then be grumpy when they are not invited to other games.

    Some players also have a hard time separating the difference between someone and their character .. here are some tips.

    Let other players known the difference between me as the player and my role-play as an asshole character

    Part of what I do is make a general announcement to the gaming group that I am playing an asshole character and he will insult other characters on a regular basis. However I as the Player is not an asshole.

    By declaring this to the other players they can see a difference between me and Jaro.

    Use a different voice

    This sounds silly but anytime you do something as your character use a different voice or accent. This will clearly mark that you are acting as your character and not your self as a player. This is very important when there is anything having to do with an insult

    play and asshole character
    Photo by Pixabay on Pexels.com

    Accept feedback without fighting back

    This is a hard one. The difference between you an a real asshole is that the real one will not accept feedback from the other players. If someone says that what you have done or said is “Not cool” you need to accept that and apologise.

    If you take it personal you are not playing an asshole you are one. You need to accept the feedback.

    Find another character to hate and get permission to do so

    IF you are ever in the room with me and my wife when we play together as players you will know our character will almost always hate each other. We do this because I can always be an asshole toward one of her characters without fear of actually hurting her feelings as she knows my true nature.

    While some people think this may sounds silly there is a good reason for this. It allows you to play your character to its fullest and have another player you trust play off your characters personal traits

    Have a redeeming value

    While Jaro will insult anyone who walks near him he tends to be very kinds with animals and will go out of his way to be their champion. While he has no problem hunting (Have you ever tried to keep a Mastiff fed … yeah that is a lot of meat ) he is always humane In his hunting methods and never hunts for sport.

    That said while he will insult any of the party members he will always ..Always have their back and will risk his life to save them. Grumbling all the way.

    Asshole monolog

    This is an underused method of role-play asshole character without actually hurting any of the players feelings. When you are asked to do something your character goes on a monolog about how the idiots are in command and you need to do as you’re told . OR find some reason to complain.

    Jaro: “What the hell why do we always need to go into town. (In a baby voice) Look at me I am a bard I like cites because because I need attention blah blah bal . Fucking bards .. why do I need to babysit a bard who is just going to piss off the towns guard … again ”

    While this is funny it is also clear that my character is bitching about something and is still being useful .

    So this is how torole-play asshole character without being a real jerk yourself

  • How to Role Play a fighter

    How to Role Play a fighter

    Title: Becoming the Sword: Roleplaying Your Fighter Beyond the Stats

    When it comes to role playing a fighter in tabletop roleplaying games like D&D, Pathfinder, or GURPS, there’s a vast realm of possibilities waiting beyond the mere numbers on your character sheet. Here are some tips to breathe life into your fighter and create a memorable roleplaying experience that goes beyond the surface:

    **1. *Craft a Compelling Backstory*: Every great character starts with a compelling backstory. Think about where your fighter came from, what shaped them into who they are today, and what motivates them to pick up arms. Personal history adds depth to your character, influencing their behavior, goals, and relationships.

    Role play is the whole point of the game. So why not role play your fighter as well. The bard should not be the only character in the party with personality.

    role play a fighter

    **2. *Flesh Out Personality Traits*: Your fighter should be more than just a weapon on legs. Consider their personality traits, quirks, and flaws. Are they honorable and steadfast, or perhaps a bit reckless and impulsive? These traits can guide your roleplaying decisions and interactions with the world.

    **3. *Code of Honor*: Does your fighter abide by a strict code of honor? Maybe they never strike an opponent when they’re down or always offer a fair fight. A code of honor adds an extra layer of complexity to your character and can lead to interesting moral dilemmas.

    **4. *Forge Meaningful Relationships*: Interact with the other characters in the party beyond combat scenarios. Develop friendships, rivalries, and alliances that help your fighter grow and evolve over time. A fighter who forms emotional connections is more engaging and relatable.

    **5. *Name and Reputation*: Does your fighter have a distinctive name or title that sets them apart? Whether they’re known as “The Blade of Dawn” or simply by their given name, having a recognizable moniker can make your character stand out in the game world.

    **6. *Balancing Feats and Personality*: While it’s tempting to choose feats and skills that maximize damage output, consider how these choices align with your character’s personality and background. Opt for abilities that resonate with your fighter’s journey and growth.

    **7. *Embrace Flaws and Challenges*: A flawless character can be uninteresting. Embrace flaws, fears, and challenges that your fighter must confront. Overcoming these obstacles can lead to significant character development and a more immersive roleplaying experience.

    **8. *React to the World*: How does your fighter react to different situations? Do they have a quick temper, or are they the voice of reason? Tailor your responses based on your character’s established traits and history.

    In your blog post, emphasize the importance of delving into your fighter’s personality, background, and motivations. Encourage players to move beyond the numbers and into the rich storytelling opportunities that tabletop RPGs offer. By immersing themselves in their fighter’s world, players can create an experience that’s not only about winning battles but also about personal growth and meaningful interactions. So, step into the shoes of your fighter, wielder of steel and keeper of stories, and let the adventure unfold! Role play your fighter in a way that makes everyone have fun.

    ITs a lot more fun than I roll to hit over and over again.