Swarmkeeper
Hero
I agree with much that has already been said. Here’s a few paraphrased/additional points:
1. Spread the spotlight. Engage the players as a group and individually throughout the session. That is, not just setting a scene and asking them “What do you do?” But also ask an individual player “What does Freya the Fighter do?”
2. Be prepared. Read the adventure (if running a published one). Set up and think about encounters that are very likely to happen that session. For example, I like to make notes on the monsters they might face: HP, AC, initiative, attacks - that allows me to jump right into - and efficiently run - combat, if that’s what happens in the session.
3. Entertain your players - and yourself. If the DM isn’t enjoying the session at all, well, game over.
1. Spread the spotlight. Engage the players as a group and individually throughout the session. That is, not just setting a scene and asking them “What do you do?” But also ask an individual player “What does Freya the Fighter do?”
2. Be prepared. Read the adventure (if running a published one). Set up and think about encounters that are very likely to happen that session. For example, I like to make notes on the monsters they might face: HP, AC, initiative, attacks - that allows me to jump right into - and efficiently run - combat, if that’s what happens in the session.
3. Entertain your players - and yourself. If the DM isn’t enjoying the session at all, well, game over.
