This has been a repeating problem at my FLGS. Most everyone who plays D&D 4E there doesn't know the rules very well, and unfortunately, this includes many of the people running Encounters games.
I've looked over the RPGA General Rules document, but it didn't seem to touch on the subject, so I was wondering: What is the RPGA's stance on house-ruling; and if I know my GM is ruling something wrong, should I bring it up at that moment, or should I wait until after the session is over?
The DM should make adjudications when the rules are unclear or to keep play moving. If a rules call is necessary, it is the DM’s job to make the call and continue with the action. Players can take a brief amount of time to object to a rules interpretation, but after listening to the players’ objections, the DM should make a quick decision.
The DM cannot specify what rules elements are or are not allowed for characters. This Character Creation Guide determines the legality of player resources for characters, not the DM.
The DM cannot make up new D&D rules wherein an existing rule will suffice. The DM must use the D&D rules whenever possible to resolve complications that arise during the game’s play. Players have an expectation that their character’s abilities will function in a certain manner based on the rules of the game. The DM cannot, for example, make up a new jumping rule when one already exists under the Athletics skill entry.
In short, LFR DMs shouldn't be using house rules, when the situation in question is covered by existing rules.
Does this help?
This has been a repeating problem at my FLGS. Most everyone who plays D&D 4E there doesn't know the rules very well, and unfortunately, this includes many of the people running Encounters games.
I've looked over the RPGA General Rules document, but it didn't seem to touch on the subject, so I was wondering: What is the RPGA's stance on house-ruling; and if I know my GM is ruling something wrong, should I bring it up at that moment, or should I wait until after the session is over?
This is a common question that isn't RPGA specific. As long as it doesn't harm your Character, XP, or Gold, I would mention the slip-up to the DM after the Encounter. If it effects the party, and you know the specifics of the rule in question, mention it during a time where it will not hold up the rest of the party. I am sure that on someone elses turn, you would rather let him make a slightly unbelievable jump then have to wait 30 minutes for an official ruling from the PHB. You could simply mention the rules issue at the end
LFR rules, no. But sections of the CCG are generally applicable to RPGA games. But, I don't think Encounters is an RPGA event. I used to think that but I believe on the Encounters forum it has been stated as not being one.
This comes through a friend of mine via Tulach, but I am not convinced (my friend and I have had this discussion) that Tulach's comment was a "truth" vs. a perspective reflecting a potential future. The RPGA program is clearly evolving, but I don't think Encounters is meant to be outside of the RPGA guidelines... especially since there are no separate guidelines.
For D&D Encounters, it is likely fine for DMs to have a little more latitude. It is also fine for inexperienced DMs to run the event. Much of the beauty of Encounters is helping people get started with D&D. Mistakes will be made, and that is generally ok. Sometimes we have new DMs step up at the location I attend and they are doing a great job with great enthusiasm. I'm sure they mess up a few rules, but this is how everyone has to start.
If you see a lot of mistakes, and the mistakes are making the game less fun for you, I would talk to the DM in private. Every DM is different, and some might take offense if you challenge them on rulings. Something like "I am pretty sure this works differently, but I am glad to go with your ruling" is a soft way to say "yeah, right, no, it works like this", and will help you gauge how open the DM is to being corrected. Some DMs will be glad to have someone that really understands the rules and some will feel that the person is being obsessive compulsive and should just roll with it. There is no spoon.
But, there is enjoyment of the game. If incorrect calls are ruining the experience, especially if you see them as unfair or against the players, I would speak to the DM about it in private and be honest about what you like and what you don't like. Starting with a positive thing is always good, then state your concern in a nice but clear way - "Hey, I really appreciate your DMing. I am very glad to play each week and the story is cool. I hope you don't mind, but I have a request. Some of the changes you are making seem to create really difficult encounters. The rules generally say xyz, and I'm wondering if we could play the next session more along those lines?" Or, "I really hope I don't come off as a tool, but I really like tactical play and we are doing a few things differently than by the core rules. Could I talk to you about a few rules areas? I would really enjoy the game more if we used the core rules."
Because, after all, no one is 100% right all of the time, and those times when you run into "the creature has a special ability/my character has a feat/there's an item that lets them do this" sort of situations, you don't have to painfully extract your foot from your mouth.
Beyond that, the "Why don't you help me out so we're both using the correct rules" approach is much less likely to get a DM's hackles up than "You're wrong and here's why".
The same approach is also useful as a DM. "So, how is your character doing that?" is generally a better response than "Your character is breaking the rules."
What I don't know is if DMs get Reward Points for it. I would assume so if we're filling out table tracking forms.
DDE is, AFAIK, part of the WPN. Which is what the RPGA is now. The RPGA in name no longer exists... officially. I know after outr sessions we fill otu a table tracking form and the sessions do show up under the D&D Public Play history in your WPN account.
What I don't know is if DMs get Reward Points for it. I would assume so if we're filling out table tracking forms.
I can confirm 100% that DM's running the Encounters: Undermountain program obtain 1 DM Reward point per session. If you DM all 12 Sessions you will receive 12 DM Reward points for this half of the year of your 5 Required for the mailout. You will notice this under the Rewards Section of your Personal Information center. It is added weekly after the event is reported and processed.