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Why Do I Prep?


  • So I don't have to draw maps or explain complex tactical situations at the table
  • So I can have the right terrain and minis
  • So I can prepare dynamic lighting and tokens in roll20
  • So I can prepare music and background soundscapes
  • So I can practice appropriate voices before the session
  • So I don't forget my best ideas
  • So I can collect and organize my thoughts about all the things that could happen
  • So I can think about NPCs and foes and their motivations
  • So I can take the time to create and scale just the perfect foes to move the spotlight around in the party
  • So I can bring fresh new ideas to the table without falling back on things I have already used and am comfortable with
  • So I can plan literary style elements like foreshadowing and foils
  • So I don't waste time thinking and letting players get bored
  • So I can choose the best way to handle different potential scene
  • So I can work in connections between PC backstories and the plot
  • So I can practice pronunciation of new names
  • So I can use a premade setting
  • So I can review stale or new rules that might come into play
  • So I can prep vignettes for players to read before the session with world info
  • So I can get excited about what is coming up in the game
  • So I can feel confident and unstressed at the table
  • So I can practice my dialogues and choose just the right words
  • So I can make cool handouts
  • So I can make cool props
  • So I can prerecord special sound effects for foes and NPCs
  • So I can give players a heads up when a PC-driven storyline is coming up and make sure they can be there for it
  • So I can prepare details that PCs might want to know
  • So I can venture outside of my comfort zone
  • So I can create mechanics to support new scenarios
  • So I can make combat more interesting with details and skill challenges
  • So I have something to come back to when we miss a few sessions
  • So I have recorded memories of our games
  • So I have something I can refer to to reuse content
  • So I don't get caught off guard
  • So I can be the best GM I can be
  • So my players can have the most fun possible

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