Signs of a Bad Dungeon Master: What You Should Watch Out For

Playing with a bad Dungeon Master (DM) can turn what should be an enjoyable and challenging experience into a frustrating and unfulfilling one. In the realm of roleplaying games (RPGs), particularly Dungeons and Dragons (DD), your DM has a significant influence on the atmosphere and gameplay. Here are some tell-tale signs that indicate you’re working with a poor DM who is unlikely to improve.

Frequent Retcons and Favoritism

One of the most common issues with a bad DM is the frequent revision or reimagining (retconning) of past events to make a player character (PC) look bad in the present. This tactic can shatter the narrative coherence and the sense of agency that is crucial for maintaining player engagement. Additionally, favoritism towards certain players is a red flag. A DM who consistently gives more plot-based opportunities to one player while neglecting others is not creating an equitable and immersive experience.

Manipulating Story and Character Progress

A bad DM may manipulate the story and character progress to fit his or her preconceptions. For example, if a player is reluctant to play a character because of previous negative experiences, a bad DM might sabotage their chances of success or even kill off their character. This behavior is not only unfair but also kills the momentum and excitement that comes with continuous character growth.

The DM also may railroad, forcing the players to follow a predetermined plot line. This not only stifles creativity but also robs players of the freedom to make meaningful choices that could impact the story. Furthermore, a bad DM might neglect or ignore a player's backstory, which can lead to a disconnect between the character and the narrative.

Emotional Burnout and Friendship Strain

The strain of dealing with a bad DM can lead to emotional burnout. Players who constantly feel railroaded or punished for not following the DM's vision may become disenchanted with the game. This can affect not only their enjoyment of the game but also their relationships with their fellow players. If a DM becomes notorious for player killing, where characters die repeatedly for no good reason, players might be forced to leave the group or even terminate the game altogether.

Sexism and Unfair Treatment

Sexism and unfair treatment are unfortunate but real issues in many gaming communities. A bad DM might force certain stereotypes on players, such as having a female character be a healer out of necessity. Moreover, they might punish certain players based on gender or personal preferences. This not only fosters an unwelcoming environment but also undermines the transgressive potential of creative storytelling and character development.

Choosing Better Options

Given the above issues, it's often worthwhile to play with other DMs or even consider leaving a group that is led by a bad DM. The benefits of playing with a well-regarded DM far outweigh the potential negative impacts of a bad one. Conducting a roleplay session or campaign with more experienced or positive DMs can provide a much richer and more engaging experience for all involved.

In conclusion, if you find yourself in a group with a bad DM who consistently retcons events, shows favoritism, manipulates the story, creates emotional burnout, and practices unfair treatment, it is crucial to consider alternative options. Quality Dungeons and Dragons experiences are better served by skilled and fair DMs who value the agency and creativity of all players.