The Lazy RPG Podcast - D&D and RPG News and GM Prep from Sly Flourish

Top GM Tips Gamehole Con 2025 Seminar – Lazy RPG Talk Show

Oct 24, 2025
David Christ, founder of Baldwin Games and skilled convention GM, shares insights on managing player expectations and improvising in unpredictable scenarios. Allan Patrick, a veteran GM focused on player consent and pacing, emphasizes the importance of safety tools and clear communication for enhancing table dynamics. Together, they explore innovative techniques for designing engaging adventures, like allowing player agency through hidden rails and crafting collaborative sessions. Their practical tips aim to help both new and experienced GMs elevate their gameplay.
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ADVICE

Let The Story Unfold

  • Let the story unfold at the table instead of forcing a preset plot.
  • Expect player choices to derail plans and improvise rather than rigidly stick to scenes.
ADVICE

Pause For Consent

  • Use a 'pause for a minute' signal so anyone can stop the fiction and check consent.
  • Resume only after players confirm they're comfortable and back in the scene.
ADVICE

Give Multiple Entrances

  • Present multiple clear entry options to force genuine player decisions and prevent predictable planning.
  • Embrace whatever the players choose and improvise the consequences.
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