The environment in which the game is played is a very important, and often overlooked, aspect of the game.
The environment in which the game is played is a very important, and often overlooked, aspect of the game. A good, comfortable environment can make a good game a great game, while a bad environment can make even the best of games a bad affair. A comfortable gamer is a happy gamer.
This is a very basic guide, and is in no way meant to be a complete how-to. It is also centered around a set of ideal circumstances. In many cases, the reality of your gaming environment differs from that ideal. However, in games as in life, do the best with that you’ve got.
Play Area: The physical space in which you choose to play will without a doubt have an effect on your game session. The play area, usually a table of some sort, should be large enough to comfortably accommodate however many players you have.
Also, there should be enough seating for all attending. It doesn’t have to be anything overly lavish, a simple folding metal chair will suffice in most situations.
The play area should be central to your players, so they can all easily see what is going on.
Lighting: Face it, playing in the dark sucks. Lighting should be enough to illuminate the play area, allowing players and game masters clear views of dice, character sheets, maps, and anything else they may need to pay attention to.
Lighting can also be creatively used to enhance mood. Dimmer switches, for example, can be used to simulate that poorly-lit tavern your D&D games always seem to start in.
Refreshments: Remember to feed and water your gamer. Hunger and thirst can be very distracting while gaming. Providing everyone with snacks and beverages increases everyone’s level of comfort, as well as helps keep them focused on the game.
As an addendum, you should also make any rules regarding the use of alcohol and tobacco beforehand. Do you mind if everyone nurses a few cold ones? Is the play area smoke-free? Be sure everyone attending the game knows these rules ahead of time. If you allow either, make sure to have ashtrays on hand as well as a way to refrigerate the brew. Remember: not only is warm beer a faux pas, it’s just nasty.
Music: When it fits a situation or setting, music can provide ambiance and background noise to the game, which can add a whole new level of immersion to the players. Is the current scene in your Shadowrun game taking place in a dance club? Put on some techno. The trick with music, though, is keeping it from intruding on the action. It should be loud enough that the players hear it in the background, but not so loud they have to raise their voices to be heard over it. In conclusion, a comfortable gaming environment can be most beneficial and ehnhance the enjoyment of everyone involved. I hope this guide has proven useful to anyone who has never hosted a gaming session, as well as provided food for thought for those who have.
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