Tips

How to Have a Great, Long-Standing Gaming Group: 

Meet regularly. Once a week is helpful. There’s something magic about once a week for creating a strong bond and consistent play.

Game consistently. Always meet at the same time and day and set a hard stop time. This can change over time (with the seasons, as players’ work schedules change etc.), but try to keep it the same from week to week. Meet even if not everyone can make it. If playing an RPG, play a one shot or board games if essential members of the party can’t make it. People will be more likely to come to game if they know game will be on.

Rotate locations to accommodate members. 

Rotate GMs. This is key since many groups fall apart for lack of a GM. For RPGs, it’s great if everyone who wants to gets a chance to GM and everyone is encouraged to give it a try. Build up your group’s GM capacity.

Rotate games. Play a variety so that every one gets to play their style (role and roll!).

Share snacks! Gaming is better with snacks and bevvies. If gaming at someone’s place let the host keep the leftovers and bring them to the next week’s session.

Recommended snacks:

• Healthy snacks! Cut up fruit and veg make great nibbling. 
• Weird snacks! That new thing you want to try in a weird flavor you would not normally buy? Bring it to game. 
• Snacks that everyone may enjoy (consider your members’ likes/needs).

Create shared history. Record what happens during your games sessions, who is there and major events (in game and in life).

Ideas:

• Keep track of the QOTN. 
• Take an occasional flattering group pic. 
• Name your gaming group. 
• Keep a game journal for your group.

Create bonds. Game with people you care about/care about the people you game with. Spend the first 20 minutes of a session catching up on the important things in people’s lives. Yes, the point is to game, but this connection will keep your group going.

Meet up to socialize. Attend your group’s parties. Participate in your group’s big life events (graduations, babies, weddings, funerals). Plan non-gaming events with your group, too. 

Consider longevity. A game group can reduce stress, increase happiness, and create social connection. Look for ways your group can be a “Right Tribe” for its members.