HOSTING A GOOD GOOD STORY GAME (THAT EVEN IMPRESSES YOURSELF)Because if I doesn't MOVE you, whaddya doin'?
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If you’re reading this, you’re the most likely to introduce story games to your circles. In story games, this means you’re the host. Remember, to play a story game is simply to tell a story as a group. But it needs a little setup to get started, and then a little push down the hill to build momentum. And that’s you; you’re the Force. As the host, your job isn’t to control the story: it’s to keep it moving. Think of yourself as a conductor of an orchestra, not the sole author of a book. You’re no master of the game; you’re the host and facilitator. You just help deliver the story-baby. “just”. HA. Sometimes it’ll feel a lot more chaotic and frantic. But it’s VERY rewarding. Before we go any further,let’s review the story game rules. They’re only seven lines long:
Got it? Let’s roll. Before the game, prepare a scenariowith a clear starting situation and some tension to resolve. Keep it short. A few sentences can do plenty. Something like:
Then list the relevant places, characters, and factions.Sometimes these are obvious (ie directly from the scenario pitch), sometimes you have to explore the margins of the premise for possibly relevant proper nouns. You may have five, two, or twelve characters listed to start, that’s okay. More can be added during play, others die on or exit the stage, some are simply forgotten. Characters might start with a name and some punchy traits and goals. No need to write paragraphs about each person (although you could). Following up on the cowboy example, you might have something like:
Lastly, have a dice mechanic readyfor if there’s uncertainty. If it’s your first time pick between one of these three:
To start the story game,present the scenario in your own words. Maybe even give it a dramatic read in your best James Earl Jones or Meryl Streep. Make sure everyone knows the starting point. They may ask a question or two, but as long as they have a basic understanding of the premise, you’re golden. Invite the table with the question “What happens next?” Be comfortable with the silence that follows. . . . . . . What the— Who put that there?? . . . . . This is called “wait time” in the educational spheres. Yes, it has been known to make people clench. If no one goes, look at the bravest person at the table and say “what happens next?” They might not have a firm answer. You gotta coax it out of them. Pretty soon another player will chime in. Then you might say what happens next too. Now you’re cooking. Listen actively and build on what players say. Ask questions if something is unclear. If someone says something happens that goes against the game (ruining the tone, trolling, or otherwise disrupting things), you are given the power as host to veto what was said. Apply vetoes sparingly and before dice are rolled. This is to maintain coherence and fairness. No spitting in the punchbowl. You set the creative frame. If players drift too silly or too grim for the group’s tastes, gently nudge them back (which, to be clear, doesn’t require an explicit veto of their actions). That’s what a good host does: sets expectations and keeps the experience in line with those expectations. If players say things that contradict each other, it’s an opportunity to “roll dice” but you can also try having them as complications. Instead of saying “that can’t happen,” ask “could both be true or some mixture of the two?” If it’s not possible or not interesting enough, roll dice to see which idea wins out. Call for rolls when things are uncertain or when consequences will make the game more interesting: “I think it’s likely that action will go poorly.” “I think it’s unlikely that they’ll be convinced of that. Let’s roll for it.” Encourage quieter players to chime in. Playing host means inviting others in on the revelry. Ending the Game:When the scenario’s wraps-up, stop. You’ll feel that core tension release, those unanswered questions resolve, and then it’s game over. Resist the temptation to keep going. Games that finish are often the most satisfying. Smile at everyone. Say “and that’s the end.” Thank everyone for playing and then have a drink. :) Tip:You don’t need to be neutral. You can root for drama, interesting consequences, and sudden reversals. The goal isn't a balance between character power, screen time, or even player input: it’s a great unfolding of a shared story. Play to see what happens and don't be afraid to take a side. FINAL TIP:Need a scenario to start RIGHT NOW? Well, here’s a pitch: zombies break into your living room. What happens next?! If you need a print out with more layout and art, I hear you. Here’s the game, totally free of charge. I just want you to try it out and get started!: ZOMBIES RIGHT NOW - ON ITCH.IOStory Games Sojourn is free today. But if you enjoyed this post, you can tell Story Games Sojourn that their writing is valuable by pledging a future subscription. You won't be charged unless they enable payments.
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Thursday, 14 August 2025
HOSTING A GOOD GOOD STORY GAME (THAT EVEN IMPRESSES YOURSELF)
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