gaming through the holidays

Posting this a bit earlier than my usual Thursday thoughts, but figured this was important enough to ponder as we rush into the holiday season.

Personally, I grew up gaming with the family during the holidays. That was the best time. We were all present and there for the next 6-8 hours minimum. We could do a lot of gaming. As the family grew though, we switched from RPG to card games. Now that I run a group, and am involved in a few others, we have to take into account our schedules.

The regular groups I play with do not involve family, and we all have our own families to spend time with. Generally, I want to keep on gaming (it’s in my blood after all), but I cannot think just of myself. I take the time away to reconnect with my own family, be supportive of their adventures during the holidays.

My players also need that time. If someone cannot make it to a session, postpone the campaign, do some one shots, or reschedule. The player that has to miss game night will feel important to the group (as it should be), and excited to return when they can. Above all, do not punish their character in game for their commitment to something other than gaming.

Happy Holidays!