Make Them an Offer They Can’t Refuse

Written by Tyson J. Hayes on 2009/12/02 – 08:00 -

Players are naturally selfish about their characters; they want better loot, greater fame, and more of the almighty experience point. So when it comes to getting them to do anything to help you with your game, try a simple trick. Bribery.

The bribe can be any number of things; for a character back story or portrait an XP award is most fitting, as you can use them as props or story hooks. Conversely, a great recap of the last session may only be worth a benny, as it’s only truly useful one time.

Now you may be thinking that you’ll be handing out the rewards like a homeless shelter during the holidays, but rest assured if you only reward quality your players will respond in kind. Now let’s be clear, don’t lord it over them and don’t let one player get way ahead of the others. There will be players that do every little thing you ask them and you may find yourself dolling out the rewards to them, but make sure you extend the offer to your other players as well.

Simply put, a little bribery can go a long way. Once you get your players working on these things, they’ll start doing them without prompting. As your players introduce new characters and story elements into the game, they will build your world with you, creating a deeper, richer, and ultimately more satisfying experience.


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