Miskatonic University Podcast MUP Ep 308 – GM Like a Pro: How to Pace Your Games
Oct 14, 2024
Explore the art of game mastering with insights on pacing your games effectively. Discover the importance of communication and aligning expectations with players. Learn practical prep strategies to minimize dead time, and explore techniques like pre-rolls and the 'talk, fight, repeat' model. The hosts discuss when to slow down or speed up pacing based on player preferences. They also share tips for recapturing pacing and knowing when to end a session. Plus, enjoy a delightful pet picture shout-out!
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Pacing Is How You Use Time
- Pacing is how you use time in your game: speed, information flow, and language shape the felt tempo.
- Good pacing creates tension, release, surprises, and engagement across interactions, scenes, and sessions.
Start Scenes With Clear Goals
- Before each scene ask: what is the scene's goal and what are the stakes?
- Use that answer to choose slow-burn or action pacing so scenes earn emotional impact.
Roll Key Checks Upfront
- Pre-roll or collect common checks (Spot/Listen/Initiative) at scene start to avoid dead time.
- Use recorded results to branch the scene without pausing for multiple rolls.
