Computers at the gaming table

[Harmon]

Some time ago there was a thread questioning computers at the gaming table, and I stated something about how much a help they were to me as a GM and a Player.

I might have been wrong.

Its an aid that has turned into a problem. Today during the game I watched as Player and GM sat staring at a computer screen rather then running and playing the game we had gathered for. One person went to reading some rather interesting news during a role playing moment, which kinda took away from the moment.

I even tried to pull them away from their computers while my daughter was sleeping, but instead I was left alone while cyber space worked its spell to distract. Luckily my daughter woke up thirty minutes into gaming so I had something to do, but it was an hour of waiting that annoyed me.

I think that computers have greatly improved our game, and helped us with research during the game, but today I was pretty annoyed by two of the three computers at the table.

So.... because I am capable of saying it- to any of you that feel I unjustly ignored your negative comments about computers in the afore mentioned thread, you have my apologizes. All my experience was positive to that point and indeed up to today (yesterday as of 30+ minutes ago).

Take care, and peace all (cause its the only way to get anywhere in the world with friends).

 

[Gold Roger]

Maybe it was just one of those bad gaming days? I've had that happen as player and DM. On some days everyones attention span on gaming has the length of an atom, as everyone won't stop the off-chatter, people randomly start reading and sleeping ot, in your case, imerse themself in their PC's. I hope your next session runs normal again.

Though, as much as I want a Computer as DMing help, there are some of my players I'd never want to have one at the table. They are just to easily distracted. If that's the case with some of your players, you might want to pull the plug.

 

[The Lemon Merchant]

I've been contemplating adding computer access to my table. The room in my new house that is going to be the game room is also seconding as my office. The layout is such that it would be quite easy to integrate my desk into the "DM Station" of the table.

I'm curious about other people's experiences with a computer and Harmon, how about your positive experiences. I'd really like to know if it's worth it.

 

[DragonLancer]

I don't allow computers or laptops at the gaming table for the very reasons that happened to the OP. They are a distraction more than a helpful tool.

 

[Bacris]

We have computers at our gaming table - but no online access. Limits what you can do, thereby limiting distractions

 

[JRR_Talking]

yep, we have just started using a PC for the GM

no interent access at all though

John

 

[wolfpunk]

We have one DM who likes to use a laptop when he DMs (we take turns in our 3 person group), it has yet to be a problem for us. Not to mention that access to the SRD is super helpful. Although, I will say we do occasionally get distracted and end up watching movie or game trailers. I think what makes it ok at our table is we are all really good friends that hang out outside of playing D&D and so we get together to hang out as much as we get together to play d&d. The laptop when we have it allows us to show each other things that are going on in our lives outside of gaming.

I know what it is like to have players that are distracted and I agree that that is not any fun, so if the laptop causes interruptions that are not ok for the group, you should talk it out as a group, and decide what should be done.

 

[MythosaAkira]

I've been using a laptop for DMing for years and haven't had any complaints from the players, but I never have any chat windows open or browse the Web or anything like that. I would consider that to be extremely rude, whether done by a player or a DM.

I use the laptop for SRD access, campaign management tools, background music/effects, etc. It there as a gaming tool and nothing more.

 

[Philotomy Jurament]

I use my computer when I prep, but no computers at the gaming table. Never liked them for that.

 

[Mark]

I have started using a DMing laptop though I have utilized a PDA for a few years anyway. It has been a big help. I have one player who uses one also and sometimes I have to be sure he is not playing one of his emulated gameboy games.