clearstream
(He, Him)
Following a couple of interesting threads on modes of play, I wondered what mode I might run my next campaign in, and what modes other DMs run theirs in. Thinking specifically in terms of 5th edition D&D (I know that other systems support divers modes, I'm interested in 5e here). If you have time, could you concisely state the terms of your mode of play? For example, for my next campaign I am thinking about -
We do this so the established facts can unfold flexibly, in any direction.
We do this so that character ability is undiluted by player ability.
[EDITED to add the purpose behind each choice.]
1. DM crafts the situation
Rather than having a story in mind, the DM crafts the situation—made up of elements with reason for being and dynamics that govern them.We do this so the established facts can unfold flexibly, in any direction.
2. Play to find out
There is no pre-scripted story. The story emerges from -- player choices in the situation +
- creature means and motives +
- world dynamics and affairs +
- game mechanics that afford, constrain and resolve those things
3. Let the rules stand
RAW is adhered to in the way that it is explained, given campaign-specific, written, exceptions. Players can rely on their characters’ abilities. If an ability lets them achieve an outcome without explaining the steps, they can do that.We do this so that character ability is undiluted by player ability.
4. Players decide, DM arbitrates
Unless under magical mind control, players choose what their characters do. The DM arbitrates -- what creatures do, based on their means and motives
- how the world behaves, based on dynamics and affairs
- how game mechanics are applied, based on RAW and RAI
[EDITED to add the purpose behind each choice.]
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