Involving your players in world-building is an important aspect of a tabletop campaign. Whenever possible a dungeon master should allow the players to add their own ideas to the world. This is easier to do during a session zero with details like where the PCs are from and their backstories.
Ask questions like these during a session to give the players the power to add even more to the world. Let the players contribute to the world. This will increase their investment and foster greater immersion. These shared interactions lead to immersive role-playing and ownership over the campaign world. Use these questions when the characters arrive in a new location, use new abilities, or return somewhere familiar. Enhance your players’ engagement and world-building. Here are ten questions dungeon masters can ask players during a session.
- How do you know this NPC?
- What is for sale at the shop?
- What the fuck is up with that?*
- Where did you learn this language or skill?
- Where was the first time you heard that song?
- What does the smell remind you of?
- Any local festivals or celebrations where you are from?
- What historical event does the painting depict?
- What game are the children playing? Does it bring up childhood memories?
- What are some religious/cultural rituals where you are from?
When you incorporate the players’ responses into the world make sure to weave it into the narrative, make it relevant to the plot, and use NPCs the players have connections to. Build a shared lore with the players to encourage creativity while giving them the chance to impact the narrative.
Do you have questions to add to the list? Other techniques for getting the players to world-build during a session?
Let me know if you have any questions or concerns in the comments!
Good luck, I believe in you. See you in the future!
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