D&D 5E (2014) Constructive Criticism

cranberry · Jun 8, 2023

I think the comic says it all. Be tactful.

Also, only provide criticism on things the DM can change.

Paul Farquhar · Jun 9, 2023

EzekielRaiden said:
Speaking as someone who primarily GMs at present, getting real feedback is hard. Most times, my players simply say they had a good time.

Players are often reluctant to criticise DMs because the might be asked to "demonstrate how it should be done"....

EzekielRaiden · Jun 9, 2023

Paul Farquhar said:
Players are often reluctant to criticise DMs because the might be asked to "demonstrate how it should be done"....

I mean, I suppose that's a concern, but I'm fairly confident my players don't think I would ever ask them for that.

Snarf Zagyg · Jun 9, 2023

Critics are men who watch a battle from a high place then come down and shoot the survivors.

As a general rule, I have found some (not all, maybe not most) people who truly love giving "constructive criticism" are simply a variant of the backseat driver; perfect content to let someone else be the DM/GM/Referee, while saving their energy to "helpfully inform" the person that they're doing it wrong - with the unsaid (but perfectly clear) premise that they would do it better.

If you find that the person who is the DM/GM/Referee is doing an intolerable job, such that you have to continuously provide them tips on how they should better run the game for you, so that you can have a better time, then I usually would suggest that you offer to run a game or two yourself. After all, it is better to show than to tell!

That said, the best way for a DM to improve is to get reps. To do it over and over again with a group of people that understand the best way to improve is to keep doing it, and to learn from mistakes. Don't "offer constructive criticism," talk to your friend after sessions and discuss the game. Most people want to have a good time, and talk about the things that are working great ... and the things that aren't working as well.

IMO.