Introducing a New Player – Engage Him Gradually

Written by Jeff Carlsen on 2009/12/29 – 08:00 -

You’ve done everything to get to know the new player and make him as comfortable as possible, but now the time has come to start playing. Everyone jumps in, becomes their characters, and the dice start rolling. But, of course, the new player is silent and uninvolved. What do you do?

  • Let him watch. Give him a little while to watch everyone else play for a bit, even after you’ve introduced his character. He’s learning the way people play, something you can’t teach and the rules don’t describe. You don’t have to push him before he’s comfortable.
  • Solicit questions Throughout the game, and especially during combat, the gamemaster should stop and ask if the newcomer has any questions. New situations are coming. Monsters that the experiences players know may confuse the newcomer. Make it clear that he can always ask for more info, but don’t wait for him to do so.
  • Don’t do all the player introductions at once. He won’t remember all the characters in detail. Instead, do the introductions throughout the session. Invite the new player to write down names and notes of things he finds interesting about the other players.
  • Have each player engage the newcomer at different times. Throughout the session, each player should take time to interact with the newcomer in character. This is in addition to the introductions, which may be done in or out of character. This lets the newcomer see each character’s personality, and keeps them involved throughout the game.
  • Don’t ask too many questions about his character. The newcomer doesn’t know his character yet. Don’t ask for that information during the first session. He’ll divulge what he’s got in his head, and that’s enough. Too many questions will overwhelm the newcomer.

Make sure to come back next week as we conclude Apathy University: Introducing a New Player.


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