Dungeons And Dragons: 10 Essential Tips For New Players
2. Don't Be That Guy
Unfortunately, as fun and welcoming as D&D is, it’s still absolutely possible to be a “bad D&D player.” This isn’t an issue to do with skill, but with your attitude toward the game itself, meaning that it’s easy enough to avoid being “that guy.”
Over the entries we’ve covered so far, a number of negative mannerisms have been mentioned, all of which are avoidable. Cheaters and non-team-players are big offenders, but there are a few less obvious player types that need to wind themselves in before coming to the table.
Failure to commit, for example, can be a big issue. It’s totally understandable that players will miss sessions occasionally, but when it’s week after week with absences or lateness, it begins to hinder the game for the rest of the party, who need to keep catching this player up.
Arguing constantly with the DM or continuously butting in when your character isn’t at the forefront of the conversation will also drive your party to their limits. It’s the DM’s game and it’s one that requires patience and turn-based actions. It’s OK to take the backseat for a while - you won’t be forgotten about.
Honestly, this is probably the simplest tip on this list: Don’t be a dick.