[Torg] Trimming player decision-making

[Phil Dack]

--- Sam Frazier II <sdf_ii at yahoo.com> wrote:
> Grind to a halt? WTH? I don't think so. If a player can't
> think of what exactly they are going to do by the 
> time you ask them, say you'll come back, finish the round.

I know this is the standard, Good GM's guide to dealing with
slow players, but it doesn't work for me. Our group only meets
about 12-14 times a year, and we play for fun. If I take that
approach, the 2 (3 some days!) players who take that extra time
will feel under pressure and potentially not enjoy the game as
much. I sometimes get a sense from games that the rules are
core, and players must adapt to work with them. I don't buy
that. For me at least, players are at the core of the game, and
its the rules that must flex to accomodate their irritating
nuances! I don't think it's realistic to expect my players to
change their behaviour; it's more appropriate to tailor the game
to fit their style and needs. Albeit more work!!

> I wouldn't suggest the mocking

Oh, we do that too :)

You're right about discussing with the players and making things
clear about pacing. And indeed, in particular combats I will do
that. But to do it every single time means I penalise those
players who are a bit slower. And yes, its worse because we play
different games every few sessions so no-one has quite all the
rules and options at their finger tips.

> They'll learn. 

Or we'll beat it into them ;-)

Phil


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