Are youy gaming in the new Millenium?

[Liquidsabre]

I had a discussion with one of my fellow DMs in my group and we were both wondering how many groups and/or GMs utilize Computers/Software in their Games? How many hi-tech groups can there be in the 21st century? We've integrated a lab-top with some GM software and a sound system hook-up for sound effects and appropriately timed mood music.

Anyone use hand-helds? I ask because I've come across GM-software tools for them on the web. Currently we have 3 lab-tops running at a table of 6 or 7 and we have plans for a new table and network system. Why, some might ask? It's fun of course. Anyone else?

 

[thol]

two things.

first, without trying to be a jerk, i would like to point out that it is not "lab-top" but "laptop". this is a common misconception that drives me nuts. again, i am only pointing this out good-naturedly.

second, i use a laptop frequently when i game, mostly with my character info on it, as it is easy to update and print. for renewing and keeping track of spells, it makes for quick work.

for the few times i've DMed since laptops have been easily available, i have only used it for quick reference for game material of my own creation, or for quick notes, but never as a full-fleged DM companion. if i were to DM regularly, i would look into some of the various software that is available for such a thing.

 

[Ankh-Morpork Guard]

I'm the only one with a laptop in the game, and I prefer to keep it that way. I still use books and a DM screen and the laptop has a few programs I use during the game, but I prefer my players to not be distracted by a computer so I'm the only one.

 

[Barendd Nobeard]

I voted semi because (1) I do not use any in the home games I run, but (2) my DM does in the game I play in (he can't run a game without his laptop). I even put a lot of spell stuff & wildshape stats for my druid on my new pda, but then our PCs all died, so that was wasted effort.

 

[Liquidsabre]

two things.

first, without trying to be a jerk, i would like to point out that it is not "lab-top" but "laptop". this is a common misconception that drives me nuts. again, i am only pointing this out good-naturedly.

Thanks, I know how petpeeves can be. I just typed rather quickly is all, sorry.

I'm the only one with a laptop in the game, and I prefer to keep it that way. I still use books and a DM screen and the laptop has a few programs I use during the game, but I prefer my players to not be distracted by a computer so I'm the only one.

This is actually a growing concern of mine as I find more attention being diverted to the thier screen. Especially since one of the players has recently taken to keeping his whole char sheet on his laptop, great for spell reference and such but his paper sheet and laptop have grown inconsisitencies due to recording some things (but not all) on each.

As Nobeard used his pda, it's a good idea. I'd almost restrict players to pda's for referencing spells, etc to keep down the distractions (and the back of screens blocking player view heh).

 

[Davelozzi]

Generally, I don't use a computer at all (and voted the third option for that reason) but there have been a few times when I've used it to pull up an image to show the players.

Between sessions, on the other hand, I use it all the time while working on the game.

 

[Crothian]

Never during a game, but I do tend to use the computer throughoutr the week.

 

[DragonLancer]

I use my PC to write up and print my adventures and notes, but the electronic has no place at the gaming table.

 

[caudor]

I've tried DM Genie. The program looks to be very handy, although my trouble is in mastering the use of the software itself, and getting my adventures into it before a session.

I often end up just skipping it during quick sessions though.

 

[Salad_Shooter]

My DM has a tendency to drag his desktop down to the room we game in...we need access to a few text files that he has only on his comp (his print cartridge has been dead for ages...). Almost bought a laptop. Then I realized I was a few thousand poorer than I thought I was. So no laptop.