Critical Miss: Issue 4 (How To Win a Role-Playing Game)

How To Win a Role-Playing Game

Step 2: Note-Passing

Placing blame is only the first step. Now, keep in mind that these steps are not supposed to happen one after the other. Once you get used to one step, include the next step in your weekly routine. Unlike the last step, this step is done from a first-person instruction. This is because only the person trying to win knows this. (I know this step due to talking to those who have succeeded.) Taking notes is something you learn from observation.

Now, on to confusing the GM into thinking you are just being an interesting role-player. Have a notebook ready (you can use the note-taking book, but it's much more fun to tag along another one (for reasons unknown)) and jot down interesting things for the GM. Start out with small things to interest him/her, like humorous suggestions on what he/she should do during a non-plot area of the campaign.

Another thing that GMs like to do is psych their players out with little things. For example, travelling back in time and making everyone afraid to do anything is a fun idea. Or perhaps if someone makes a grim predicament of what they think will happen, fulfil their wishes. These suggestions that you make should just be light. In the future, use more personal things to frighten them, and make them think that the power of the GM is on your side.

Some good examples of notes to pass up:

Look at me and laugh.

Say "Why not? It could be a laugh."

I bet you �5 that you can't make Bob's character look gay. Send that way too friendly pirate/guard after him.

Say "That's a great idea!" Put your dice in your pockets, and rattle a few Peanut M&M;'s for a few rolls, then accidentally make your GM screen fall over.

This step is for presiding over the odd, non-campaign affecting events that happen. Well, you won't have control over them, but the party will think that you inspired it. Something like this will help you make friends and lessen any chances of others questioning your actions. Also, if you make the right notes, most of the party will think you are giving him ideas for the game, as well as all the side events. Be afraid, be very afraid�

Moulding your PC...