Post/Author/DateTime	Post
Esgay 12-08-05, 07:41 PM	I'm DMing for my old group again next sunday, trouble is everyone can attend, normally we have 2-3 people can't make it but on sunday everyone can. That's 7 PCs (plus companions) and i'm just wondering how in the world do i DM for so many? I'm thinking of making it fairly Roleplay-intensive possibly with a few 'quirky' enemies (disarmers and sunderers) but i'm just wondering how to make it challenging and fun for everyone The party consists of a fighter, druid (with riding dog companion), monk, sorcerer (with zombie gnoll), cleric, ninja and ranger. A fairly mixed bag but a bit on the combat-oriented side. Has anyone had expeience with DMing a larger group and what do they find works well? Please help, I'm at a bit of a loss as to how to work it.
Tytalus 12-08-05, 07:58 PM	Let me suggest the exact opposite. Roleplaying encounters often work better for small groups, as with so many players it's difficult for everyone to play an important part. I'd also recommend not using 'quirky' opponents: if there are that many PCs in combat, working with unfamiliar rules can further slow down the game. Unless you are rock solid with the involved rules, I'd go for standard fare instead. What I found works well with large groups are situations that require some planning on the PC's behalf. E.g., an assault on a larger force that (without proper planning) is too strong. I.e., if you want role-playing, try to arrange situations where it happens among the party and involves all PCs (as opposed to few PCs talking to an NPC). Good are also larger battles that give everyone a chance to do something useful. Opponents using area-of-effect attacks, such as spells or breath weapons work nicely, too, as they require some maneuvering. For simplicity, choose only one or two different kinds of opponents and give them all the same stats. I suggest going for a medium number of somewhat tough opponents. In any case, put an extra effort into preparation: have the monsters' stats not only at hand, but be also familiar with their tactics and the most important numbers (DCs, AC, to-hit, etc.).
smoker 12-08-05, 08:10 PM	My max group ever was 20 players at a tabletop game. And some of my players had two characters. I split the group up into 2 10 player groups. And once a month the whole group would play. This is a case where you want to split the group into more manageable parts. I can easily DM 10 players without a problem. In your case of seven, I would go 3 and 4. I would have someone in the 3 player group play two characters. Then, just switch back and forth between each group at the session. Just be sure to leave each of the groups on a cliffhanger before switching to the other group. As long as you leave each group with stuff to discuss and figure out, you will keep everyone interested. smoker