10/11/2024

Striking the right balance between adhering strictly to the rules and allowing flexibility for narrative-driven choices can elevate a campaign from good to unforgettable. However, managing this balance can be challenging, especially for new Game Masters (GMs). Today, we’ll explore how to find that balance, starting with the importance of rules as written (RAW) before gradually incorporating house rules as your group becomes more comfortable.

Starting with Rules as Written (RAW)

When you’re new to a game system, whether Dungeons & Dragons, Shadowdark, or any other TTRPG, it’s crucial to stick to the rules as they are written. Here’s why:

• Consistency: The rules ensure fairness and consistency for everyone at the table. Especially early on, RAW gives you a clear guideline to follow so the players and the GM know what to expect. This fosters trust between players and allows them to make informed decisions based on their understanding of the rules.
• Learning the System: Adhering to RAW when learning a new system helps players and the GM become familiar with the mechanics, terminology, and pacing. Before introducing any modifications, it’s essential to first understand how the game is intended to function. This way, any changes or house rules can be made with a better understanding of their impact.
• Avoiding Confusion: Early in a campaign, deviating from the rules can sometimes lead to confusion or inconsistent rulings, which slow down the game or lead to disputes at the table. Following RAW minimizes this risk, allowing the group to focus on getting to know the system and each other’s playstyles.

Transitioning to House Rules and Flexibility

Once you and your group have played several sessions and are comfortable with the core mechanics, you may find that certain aspects of the game don’t quite fit your table’s desired style of play. This is where house rules and more flexible rulings come in.

• Tailoring to Your Group’s Playstyle: Every group is different. Some players enjoy strategic, rules-heavy combat, while others prefer a more narrative-driven experience. As you get to know your players, you can adjust the rules to better fit their style. For example, you might simplify certain mechanics, change initiative, or introduce custom rules that speed up combat to keep the story flowing. Great ideas can be found on website blogs or YouTube videos with a quick search.
• Encouraging Creativity: House rules allow for more creative freedom. For instance, if a player wants to attempt something that the rules don’t explicitly cover—like a daring acrobatic maneuver in battle—you can make a flexible ruling on the fly that enhances the moment. Allowing players to do the unexpected can lead to memorable, story-driven gameplay. Some games, like Dungeon Crawl Classics, have mechanics that have this flexibility built into the rules.
• Maintaining Balance: While flexibility is important, it’s equally important to avoid letting house rules unbalance the game. Make sure any modifications don’t give one player or character an unfair advantage, and always check in with your group to ensure everyone is happy with the changes.

Finding the Balance

Here are some tips to help you strike the right balance between following the rules and adapting them for story-driven moments:

• Start Simple: Especially if you’re running a game with newer players, keep house rules to a minimum at first. Allow everyone to get comfortable with the system before you begin altering it.
• Be Transparent: When introducing a house rule or making an exception to RAW, communicate with your players beforehand. Explain why you’re making the change and ensure everyone is on board. You may even want to have a group vote on the inclusion of the house rule before it is implemented in the game.
• Stay Consistent: Once a house rule has been established, apply it consistently throughout the campaign. If you find the rule isn’t working as intended, discuss it with your group and make adjustments together.
• Prioritize Fun: At the end of the day, the purpose of TTRPGs is to have fun. If a strict rule is bogging down the game or diminishing enjoyment, don’t be afraid to bend or break it in favor of the story.

Conclusion

Balancing rules and mechanics with storytelling is one of the most rewarding aspects of being a GM. While it’s important to respect the rules provided, remember that the ultimate goal is to create a shared narrative that everyone enjoys. By starting with the rules as written and gradually introducing house rules, you can create a flexible and engaging experience that keeps your group excited to return to the table each session.

Personally, I have used multiple versions of house rules in different campaigns over the years. Some worked and made the game more interesting while others fell flat. I posted a list of the house rules I have used and my thoughts on them here.

What are your thoughts on balancing rules and storytelling? Do you prefer sticking to RAW or running more flexible games? Let us know in the comments!

Keep on gaming!