Possible New DM Seeking Advice?

Post/Author/DateTimePost
#1

Enryuken

Jan 21, 2015 21:06:39

Hi. First off, part of this is because I'm planning on stepping up into the shoes as a secondary DM. Meaning, if there's enough people, I'll be the third or fourth DM on the list.

 

Now, key thing? I'm nervous. I've tried DMing before just a bit, but I'm not confident I can do this overall. Most of what is being run by the head DM is custom content. While this isn't AL material as of yet (might be, I think he said he was in talks for it?) but I'm currently trying to decide if I want to take this final step.

 

As far as being a player, I find myself more going for the fun and the roleplaying aspect. Can I still do this as a DM?

 

Also, how harsh should I be as far as rules and fun? I've noticed that the two DMs we have don't exactly follow the rules closely, but I would like to at least make use of maybe the Advantage mechanics, Inspirations, and having fun. I like that Advantage makes it a bit more challenging to the players themselves pretty well.

 

My other nervousness is that as far as public speaking, I'm probably not that good at it, but once I get going, I tend to have fun and see what I can do.

 

So, I'm asking other DMs for advice for someone stepping into their first game of 5th Edition DM? Thanks.

#2

iserith

Jan 21, 2015 21:12:10

Most DMing is just repeating a few basic processes over and over again while focusing on the goals of play and using your imagination to bring things to life.

 

Read DM 101 (plus the links in my signature while you're at it). Also, check out DM & Players 102: Goals of Play.

#3

Bladewulf

Jan 21, 2015 21:26:34 		If you can, practice with a single player beforehand and do a few encounters.
#4

Archon007

Jan 21, 2015 23:22:35

Enryuken wrote:
#5

Noon

Jan 22, 2015 0:52:57

Enryuken wrote:
#6

Rhenny

Jan 22, 2015 4:09:35

Enryuken, if you like roleplaying, DM is great.  You get to play all the NPCs and monsters.  

 

Like Iserith noted, follow the basics.  also adding to Archon007's advice, the more you lead a group, the more comfortable you get.  

 

The anxiety you feel will turn to excitement.  I've been teaching for 20 years, and I still get nervous especially on Mondays. As I get rolling, the anxiety turns to energy, that gets channeled into class. Dming is like that too.