DM Styles and Preferences
For many of us who’ve ventured into the world of Dungeons & Dragons, we’ve either found ourselves behind the DM screen or observed a variety of DM styles with different settings, themes, and tones. One of the most significant factors that can make or break a game is the Dungeon Master’s style. It’s crucial to remember that there’s no “right” or “wrong” style—just different approaches, and what works for one group might not work for another.
Before we dive deeper, let’s acknowledge that while most DMs are still honing their craft, there are “bad” DMs. New DMs will naturally experience a learning curve, and perfection isn’t the immediate goal, we’ve all been there. Just remember if you’re starting out you aren’t “bad”, you're learning and it is important to acknowledge feedback as you grow but don’t use it as fodder against yourself. You’ve got this! There are some DMs, however, who can be challenging to work with due to their inflexibility or lack of player engagement. These are the DMs who neglect to involve their player, treating it as their game they are “allowing” their player to explore. These are the “bad” ones. It’s vital to remember that D&D is a collaborative storytelling experience. The best DMs build the narrative with their players, not just for them, and regular check-ins can help ensure everyone is on the same page.
Now, let’s explore the various DM styles and preferences:
Roleplay Heavy vs. Combat Heavy
Every game includes elements of both roleplay and combat, but DMs often lean more heavily in one direction.
Roleplay Heavy DMs: These DMs craft their games like a rich narrative, focusing on character interactions, moral dilemmas, and story development. Combat is present but secondary, allowing players to delve deeply into their characters and engage in complex dialogues and decision-making. If you thrive on character development and narrative depth, a roleplay-heavy game might be your ideal setting.
Combat Heavy DMs: On the flip side, combat-focused DMs emphasize tactical gameplay, encouraging players to strategize and optimize their combat abilities. These games often feature intricate battles and challenges where player skill and strategy come to the forefront. If you enjoy mastering your character’s abilities and engaging in dynamic combat encounters, this style might be more suited to your preferences.
It’s important for players to identify their preferred style of play. Discussing these preferences with your DM before the campaign starts can help ensure that the game aligns with your expectations.
Improviser vs. Planner
The balance between improvisation and planning is another key aspect of DMing:
Planners: As a planner, you may find yourself meticulously preparing each session, outlining possible scenarios and preparing for various player actions. This approach can be time-consuming and may sometimes feel like it leads to less flexibility. Most planners don’t go to this extreme, or if they do, they either burn out or adapt to a more manageable level. Planning in a manageable way comes from pre-building encounters that can be used in multiple scenarios and setting goals for players rather than drafting their narratives.
Improvisers: These DMs excel at adapting on the fly, building the world and story in real-time based on player choices. This style requires quick thinking and flexibility but can lead to a highly dynamic and evolving game. These DMs are the masters of adaptability.
Both styles have their strengths, and many DMs find a balance between planning and improvisation. Understanding your DM’s approach can help you better engage with the story and contribute meaningfully to the game.
Rules as Written vs. Homebrew
Rules provide structure and a framework for gameplay, but DMs often vary in how strictly they adhere to them:
Rules as Written: Some DMs prefer to stick closely to the official rules, using them as a foundation to build their campaign. This approach ensures consistency and fairness but can sometimes be restrictive.
Homebrew: Others embrace homebrew content, adapting or creating new rules to fit their unique campaign. This flexibility allows for a more personalized experience but requires careful balancing to avoid disrupting gameplay.
Regardless of the approach, the “Rule of Cool” can be a valuable tool. Allowing creative or epic moments, even if they bend the rules, can enhance the game for everyone. When a player proposes an idea that might stretch the rules, consider it as a negotiation. Use responses like “Yes, and…” or “No, but…” to keep the game exciting and dynamic.
Conclusion
While there are many facets to being a Dungeon Master, the key takeaway is to keep the game enjoyable for everyone involved. Regular check-ins with your players and being open to feedback can ensure that the game remains fun and engaging. After all, D&D is about storytelling and adventure—so embrace the journey and enjoy the game!
