Do you use a DM screen?

[Rechan]

This is something I've actually been wondering for a while.

Every setting puts out a DM screen, in addition to the standard DM screen.

But I never use them. One, I like to roll in the open. Two, I can't see as well as I would like, especially those little numbers on the d20, so occasionally a player next to me will call the number out.

I also use cardboard counters instead of minis I keep in a plastic baggy on a table to my side, so no need to hide those. Monster stats on notecards, and the occasional note on a piece of paper in a folder (although really, I wouldn't care if they looked at my notes; this group is very casual).

I can see the benefits of having a little list of information on the inside, but I often print off a helpful thing (like the conditions list) and put that in a binder where I keep all my DM stuff (names, monster stats, paper) or write down something (like how a grab works).

 

[Aus_Snow]

Yeah, I generally use a DM screen. Some systems, no. Most, yes.

They're useful.

 

[jdrakeh]

Yes, I do use a Gm screen, though not generally as something to hide dice rolls behind. I think that they're most handy for displaying cheat cheats (for both the players and the GM) in an easily accessible and cost effective manner. I mean, I'd love to be able to drop money on a brand new laptop and a digital projector to go with it — but buying a $25.00 customizable GM screen and making photocopies as needed is a much more responsible expenditure.

 

[Griego]

I play online exclusively, so is that a yes, or no?

 

[Jack99]

I make all my rolls in the open. I do however use the DM screen, for easy reference and to hide my papers. This is a recent switch. The last couple of years, I have been using my laptop instead of papers, but it was recently ditched for a more old school approach

 

[blargney the second]

I roll in the open, but I like to hide my minis behind the DM screen. The setting ones are also handy for things like dates and other proper nouns.
-blarg

 

[airwalkrr]

I use a DM screen, not because I like to be able to fudge rolls, but because I don't like players using my rolls to determine meta information. For instance, if they see I rolled an 11 and know that I hit their 25 armor class, they know the monster must have at least a +14 to hit. Not all my players do, but some do, and some do it obnoxiously. I would just smack them, but I prefer nonviolent solutions. A DM screen keeps the peace and helps remind me when that next poison check is coming up.

 

[TheHeadSage]

I use a DM screen for the reference tables and to hide my dice rolls. Not to fudge them, but to prevent meta-gaming and to increase the tension in combat. Worked well in the group.

 

[blargney the second]

Oh yeah, I call my screen my mini corral.

 

[roguerouge]

No. My player thinks I'm being hostile and distant when I trotted that out.