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Conflict Resolution
How to handle disagreements at the table and maintain a positive environment.
1
Common types of conflict
- Rules: Disagreement about how an ability or roll works. Solution: make a quick decision, keep playing, review the rule after the session.
- Between characters: Opposing interests within the story. Can be fun, but watch that it doesn't become real tension between players.
- Between players: Someone monopolizes the conversation, interrupts, or makes decisions that negatively affect the group.
- Pacing: A player doesn't get to participate or the game moves too slowly.
2
What to do
1. Pause the situation: "Let's take a moment to review this."
2. Listen to all sides before deciding.
3. Differentiate player from character: "This is a conflict between characters, not between you."
4. If the problem is serious, discuss it privately after the session.
3
Prevention
Doing a Session Zero, defining behavior rules, and using safety tools eliminates most conflicts before they happen.
4
When to escalate
If a player consistently disrupts the game despite conversations, it's okay to ask them to leave the group. Your responsibility is to the whole table, not one player. On Adarle20, you can use the platform's support system if you need guidance on handling difficult situations.