Getting players to help with hosting
In our larger games, we recommend an assistant host to help run the game.
For example, in Spellbound, it can be particularly useful to have another host run the library while the “main” host deals with the rest of the game.
Similarly with the larger games having another host to help with pickpocketing or combat can be helpful – particularly if the several players need the host at the same time.
However, some rules can be managed by the players themselves (perhaps overseen by a trustworthy player). For example, combat doesn’t require secret knowledge, or an awareness of the plot, and so could be something that the players manage themselves.
On the other hand, we don’t recommend allowing players to manage pickpocketing – that’s something a dedicated host needs to do.
Tips for players managing combat
Here are our tips for getting your players to manage combat.
First, don’t get everyone to manage combat. Not everyone needs to know anything about combat – generally only the “dangerous” characters need to know something about it.
So choose a small number of trustworthy players to become helpers. Ideally, players you know will be able to adjudicate combat fairly.
Second, share our standard combat rules with those players.
Third, encourage them to practice the combat rules before the party itself so they understand how they work and any problems and misunderstandings can be ironed out.
Ideally, do this a couple of days beforehand, or schedule a training session before the party. We would also explain that we wouldn’t expect them to adjudicate combat that they are involved in themselves.
Fourth, during our introductory speech, ask the helpers to identify themselves. That way the other players know that they can ask them for help.
Fifth, keep an eye on combat during the game, in case there are problems.
Sixth, as part of the debrief speech, thank the helpers for their help.
Other standard rules
While our standard rules also include capturing player and poison, combat has the most potential for other players to help with hosting.