Adaptation

Thinking Critically: A D&D Discussion

I am once again joined by Manny a.k.a. Growed Up Geek to talk about adaptation. One great way to kill two birds with one stone is by integrating player character backstories into published adventure modules; not only do you get to customise the module and make it unique, but the players feel embedded in the world and get to make it their own. As for DMing, there are two kinds of adaptation: Micro - that moment-to-moment, immediate response to player actions, and macro - adapting the world in response to the dynamic plot. For both, the DM is part charlatan, part conman, part magician, and the ratio between those three is hugely variable. It's a unique proposition! Manny and I also share our tips for allaying that newer DM fear of "what the heck am I meant to be doing?" Ultimately, don't put undue pressure on yourself, no one is expecting global level talent from any given DM. This is a street that goes both ways, as at the core of D&D is generally being a decent human. Many problems, both in-universe and at the table can be resolved with compassion and empathy.

• 00:00:00 - Introduction
• 00:02:33 - Adapting Modules
• 00:18:05 - Tips for New DMs
• 00:41:37 - Macro Adaptation - Incorporating Backstories
• 00:54:33 - Making Space for Players
• 01:04:07 - Outro and Patreon

Find Manny (@Growedupgeek) on:

• Twitter: https://twitter.com/Growedupgeek
• Twitch: https://www.twitch.tv/growedupgeek
• YouTube: https://youtube.com/channel/UCbHErVkfA9d_UnxMs0lSwZQ

Find me on:

• Website: https://www.thinkingcritically.co.uk
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/ThinkCritDnD
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thinking_critically_dnd/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ThinkingCriticallyDnD
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCH_BSgazjwyshzo1jazHeaQ
• Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/thinkingcritically
• Ko-Fi: https://ko-fi.com/thinkingcritically

References:

• 'Emotion' episode of Thinking Critically

Patrons:

• Matt Street @mpstreet88: virtualtimehustle.com

Intro Music: 'Local Forecast' by Kevin MacLeod
Intermission Music: 'Chill' by Kevin MacLeod
Outro Music: 'Local Forecast - Elevator' by Kevin MacLeod