Etiquette at My Table
In general, I plan to run my games with “the rule of cool” rule basis. Keep it nice, civil, & friendly. If you have a question, ask me. Here’s some specific rules to be aware of:
Everyone is Welcome
All members of any game, players, DMs, and otherwise, are expected to respect the other members and players, and all people are welcomed here. This includes treating each other with respect regarding race, age, sexuality, gender, religion (or lack thereof), and other physiological or ideological characteristics/beliefs. Every person is entitled to this respect.
Call and address every person & their characters by the name and pronouns they’ve given you.
Share the Stage
Help make sure that everyone, even a new or shy player, has the opportunity to shine in the game. It is expected that all players give others a chance to speak, not interrupting them, discouraging them from talking, or from participating. Keep distracting or off topic interruptions to a minimum. Do not engage in inappropriate content, mean-spirited insults, forcefully telling others how they should play or act, or other intentional behavior that is hurtful.
If you are asked to stop a behavior, stop immediately. Refusing to do so will result in being removed from the game.
Since these games include collaborative storytelling, be ready to contribute to building the world, story or NPCs and to respond positively to the contributions and improvisations of other players.
This is a Yes, And... style game.
Safety Tools
Use the Red Stick to indicate significant discomfort or a need to regain distance from the narrative. No Explanation Needed.
Use the Yellow Stick to indicate that the scene is ok for now, but should not escalate.
Use the Green Stick to indicate you are ok to continue, especially in a potentially intense or high conflict scene.
While the rating for most games is Mature, gender or racially based violence on the part of players will not be tolerated. Formal consent is required for interactions beyond flirting. Foul language is allowed, but it should be kept to a minimum and be respectful of all participants in game. Game specific cursing is admired.
There is zero tolerance for harassment here, consider this your only warning if you are found violating this rule.
Rulings & Disagreements
There will be times when a player may disagree with another player or myself about how something is supposed to be done or the way things are handled. In those situations, I have the right to make a judgment call. If you disagree with the call, you can speak to me about it later out of game. I recognize that mistakes happen, but it’s usually better to have fun than deliberate over the rules, especially during the time constraints of a One Shot.
Adapted, with permission, from Dungeons With Dragons Blog
We all have more fun when we feel safe...
Having clear expectations and ready safety tools means that players can feel more confident to take risks, try new things and explore the story and themselves. This adds benefit to everyone at the table and makes your game time more fun.
Mastering Dining Etiquette: Formal vs. Casual
Dining in Style: Formal Events
When it comes to formal dining, the fork and knife rules are stricter than a bouncer at a club. Remember to always keep your elbows off the table and use the silverware from the outside in (no, you can't just grab the closest fork). It’s all about showing respect for the meal—and the company!
Casual Gatherings: Keep It Chill
Casual is the name of the game outside a formal setting, like a picnic or campfire cookout. You can ditch the fancy utensils and dive right in. Just don’t forget the napkins; no one wants a s'more disaster making a mess of your shirt!
Getting the Seating Right
Trying to navigate seating arrangements? It's like choosing teams for dodgeball. For formal dinners, wait for the host to guide you to your seat. At casual get-togethers, feel free to plop down where you please—just make sure you save a spot for the snacks!
To Toast or Not to Toast?
If there’s a toast happening, get ready to raise your glass. In formal settings, it’s polite to wait for the host to speak first. In casual settings—hey, just go for it! Raise a glass and celebrate the good times. Just remember: sloshing your drink is a no-go.
Chowing Down: When to Start Eating
In a formal setting, it’s polite to wait until everyone is served before diving in. Trust us, no one wants to watch you devour your entrée solo! At casual gatherings, you can generally dig in when hunger strikes—just be ready to share!
Saying Thank You: Graciousness Matters
A heartfelt thank you goes a long way, regardless of the dining scenario. In formal events, a verbal thank you to the host is a must. At casual meals, a simple nod or a full-on high five for the chef works wonders. Let’s spread that gratitude!