Miskatonic University Podcast MUP Ep 309 – GM Like a Pro: How to Build Great Atmosphere
Oct 28, 2024
Your Friend Nate, a narrative game runner and podcaster with a flair for storytelling and improvisation, joins the discussion to enhance your game mastery. They dive into defining atmosphere, exploring its emotional impact and how to build tension through contrast. Nate emphasizes using the five senses and simple sensory cues to create depth, encouraging players to contribute their own details. They also highlight the importance of varied tones and the power of memory-linked cues like smell and taste to evoke strong reactions. Tune in for actionable insights and fun homework!
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Episode notes
Atmosphere Is The Game's Breath
- Your Friend Nate describes atmosphere as the game's breath that runs in the background and surfaces only when needed.
- Treat atmosphere as ongoing presence that frames players without making them the constant center.
Verisimilitude Anchors Horror
- Keeper Dave frames atmosphere as verisimilitude that makes the fictional world feel real to players.
- Use detailed, mundane realism to heighten contrast with cosmic or horrific elements.
Contrast Creates Group Consent
- Atmosphere creates group consent to move into intense or silly moments by shaping ebb and flow.
- Proper contrast—light then heavy—lets players grant permission for bigger emotional hits.
