Conflicting Advice for Dungeon Masters
As Dungeon Masters, we’re surrounded by advice: videos, blogs, podcasts, and the insights of fellow players. Some of it resonates immediately—like those classic debates between Rules as Written versus the Rule of Cool. But some advice feels like it’s pulling in opposite directions, and that’s where it can get tricky.
For example, one of the oldest debates is whether to stick to the rules exactly as they’re written, or to break them for the sake of an epic story moment. Both approaches have their merits—and ultimately, the right choice depends on your group’s preferences and what creates the best experience at your table.
Or take the balance between planning and improvisation. Planning gives you a solid foundation, but too much structure can leave you stuck if your players veer off course. Improvisation can bring energy and collaboration, but it can also feel daunting if you’re still building confidence. In the end, most DMs find they need to balance both—having a loose framework but leaving space to adapt in the moment.
Then there’s character death—a topic that can spark heated discussions. Some argue it should always be meaningful and tied to the story, while others see it as a natural risk of the dice. Here, the best move is to talk to your players ahead of time about how you want to handle death and risk in your campaign.
So, what can you do when you run into conflicting advice? My own approach boils down to a few core ideas:
Contextualize: Consider whether this advice fits your campaign and players.
Evaluate the Source: Look to people who run games like the one you want to play.
Experiment: Try small changes and see what works before committing to something new.
Adapt: Don’t be afraid to tweak or discard advice that doesn’t fit your table.
Trust Your Instincts: In the end, you’re the one shaping the game. Let your creativity guide you.
It’s easy to get overwhelmed by all the voices out there. But remember—everyone’s advice comes from their own experience, and yours will too. Ultimately, you’ll find what works best for you and your players.
If you’re curious about how I navigate these conflicts in more detail, check out the full video on the channel. And if you have your own thoughts on these classic debates—like the best way to handle character death or finding the sweet spot between planning and improvising—drop a comment. Let’s keep the conversation going.
Cheers,
Brian