The Importance of Group Dynamics

[Kzach]

A common underlying topic of board discussion seems to be problems with group dynamics. Treasure distribution, rules-lawyering, power-gaming, arguments at table, turning up late or cancelling at the last minute, etc.

All of these can be traced back to how individuals interact with the group.

As someone who, for various reasons, has had to start new groups quite often, I've a zero tolerance policy for any sort of disruptive behaviour. I now usually try and cherry-pick players who I feel will suit my play style. In other words, I create a group dynamic that will be conducive to a fun game.

This has been primarily because, in my experience, not doing so has resulted in a conflicting group dynamic. Which leads to many of the problems that are expressed on these forums daily.

Which leads me to the conclusion that group dynamics, no matter what the RPG being played, should be the most important factor in selecting who it is that plays with you.

I've heard a saying elsewhere that I feel sums this up well, although I have to paraphrase it as I can't recall the exact wording, "If you wouldn't want to have a beer with them outside of gaming, don't game with them."

This, I feel, solves all the other problems you might have with a gaming group. It is the GUT of RPG's.

 

[Mazlyn]

My zen moment...

Hey Kzach,
Haven’t you ever thought it odd that you "…for various reasons, has had to start new groups quite often"?

Did it ever dawn on you that "…disruptive behaviour" is a subjective term?

What about "…cherry-pick players who I feel will suit my play style" isn’t just a little bit authoritarian?

There are those who see the world as "sheep and sheepdogs" and maybe it’s true. I also agree with the axiom that gaming is supposed to be fun. But I would implore you to take a moment and think about overcoming the small challenges of capable opponents (some of which are on our side of the table!)

I truly believe that I have some of my most enjoyable games with adversaries and party members who won’t just "toe the line". I see it as a challenge to accomplish a goal with the "broken" tools dealt us. And it is just as much a failure for the group to dissolve by everybody going home mad as it is for a "party wipe".

Just a thought friend. (and a little tweak!)
Nothin' but love

"There is no glory in outstripping donkeys." ~ Marcus Valerius Martialus

 

[RFisher]

I've a zero tolerance policy for any sort of disruptive behaviour.

Ironically, intolerance is what I find hardest to tolerate. We’re all only human.

I game primarily to meet friends and have an excuse to hang out with them. People come first; the game, second.

I've heard a saying elsewhere that I feel sums this up well, although I have to paraphrase it as I can't recall the exact wording, "If you wouldn't want to have a beer with them outside of gaming, don't game with them."

But I don’t drink. (^_^)

Seriously though, I’d agree with that sentiment. But I don’t think there are that many gamers who I wouldn’t mind hanging out with outside of gaming.