Table Etiquette & Expectations#

These guidelines ensure everyone has a fun, respectful, and enjoyable experience at our table. All players are expected to follow these rules.

1. Punctuality & Attendance#

Be on time. Sessions start at the agreed time and location (online or offline).

  • Grace Period: 40 minutes after the scheduled start time
  • Quorum Rule: If 3/4 of players are present, the session will begin immediately (even before the grace period ends)
  • Late Arrivals: Players who arrive late may join the session in progress
**Why This Matters**: Starting on time respects everyone's schedule and maximizes our gaming time together.

2. Respect the Spotlight#

Don’t interrupt other players when they’re speaking, roleplaying, or taking their turn.

  • Wait for natural pauses before speaking
  • If interruptions become frequent, the GM will implement a “speak when called upon” system
  • Everyone deserves their moment in the spotlight
**The Goal**: Everyone should feel heard and valued at the table.

3. Honor the Campaign Style#

Respect the type of campaign we’re running.

Different campaigns have different tones and expectations:

  • Some are serious and dramatic
  • Others are light-hearted and comedic
  • Some focus on combat, others on roleplay

Match your play style to the campaign’s tone, and be flexible with the GM’s vision.

4. Respect Safety Tools & Boundaries#

Honor everyone’s comfort levels. We use Lines & Veils to ensure a safe space for all players.

What Are Lines & Veils?#

  • Lines: Hard boundaries—content that will not appear in our game
  • Veils: Soft boundaries—content that happens “off-screen” without detail

Our Commitment#

  • Respect all Lines and Veils without question
  • If something makes you uncomfortable, speak up
  • The GM will address issues immediately and privately
  • This applies to both online and offline sessions
**Remember**: A safe table is a fun table. Everyone's boundaries are valid.

5. Rules & Dispute Resolution#

The GM has final say on rulings.

  • The GM makes final decisions on rule interpretations
  • Players may reference the rulebook to clarify rules
  • However, the GM’s ruling stands during the session
  • Discussions about rules can happen after the session
**At the Table**: Keep the game moving—trust the GM's ruling. **After the Session**: Discuss rules interpretations respectfully if needed.

6. Avoid Comparisons & Unsolicited Criticism#

Do not compare this game to other GMs or campaigns.

Please avoid:

  • Comparing to other GMs (professional or personal)
  • Referencing “better” or “worse” games you’ve played
  • Describing your “ideal GM” or “perfect game”
  • Making negative comparisons during the session

Providing Feedback#

If you have constructive criticism or suggestions:

  • Communicate privately with the GM (not at the table)
  • Be respectful and specific
  • Focus on actionable feedback
  • Remember that GMing is challenging and everyone is learning
**Why This Rule Exists**: Public comparisons undermine the GM's confidence and disrupt the game for everyone. Private, constructive feedback helps everyone improve.

7. Removal from the Table#

The GM reserves the right to ask a player to leave.

If behavioral issues cannot be resolved through communication:

  • The GM may ask a player to leave the table
  • This decision will be made carefully and only when necessary
  • The goal is always to maintain a positive experience for all players
**This is a last resort**, used only when other solutions have failed or when someone's behavior is severely disruptive.

Summary: The Golden Rules#

  1. ⏰ Be on time and ready to play
  2. 🎭 Let others have their moment — don’t interrupt
  3. 🎬 Match the campaign’s tone and style
  4. 🛡️ Respect everyone’s boundaries and safety tools
  5. 📖 Trust the GM’s rulings during play
  6. 🤐 Give feedback privately, not through comparisons
  7. 🤝 Work together to create a fun experience for everyone

Questions or Concerns?#

If you have any questions about these guidelines, or if you’re experiencing issues at the table, please speak with the GM privately. We’re all here to have fun together!

**Remember**: These rules exist to make the game better for everyone. Thank you for being a respectful and engaged player!
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