Game Masters play a key role in creating a safe, inclusive, and enjoyable environment for all participants of the game. Following the rules and ethical standards ensures a positive experience for beginners, experienced players, the GMs themselves, and the event organizers.

Our goal with you is to hold awesome TTRPGs. You and the players should also enjoy the shared story. TTRPGs are about adequate communication and joint creativity, so we ask you to follow a few simple rules and recommendations.

Rules:

1. Base. The default language of the games at the festival is Ukrainian. If you plan to hold the game in any other language, be sure to run this by the organizers in advance.
2. Respect. All players have the right to respect and benevolent treatment. The Game master should avoid derogatory comments, unconstructive criticism, or aggression towards the players. The GM is responsible for maintaining an environment that is open to all people, regardless of gender, age, ethnicity, sexual orientation, level of experience, or physical ability.
3. Safety. It is important to maintain an atmosphere during the game in which participants can freely express their thoughts and emotions for their characters. The GM should clearly understand the age restrictions he has specified, and clearly indicate the available content warnings in the game description. As the GM, you should be prepared to calmly pause the game and resolve conflicts between players or “turn down” a scene in the game in a timely manner if necessary. Do not hesitate to ask players about unpleasant moments in the plot before or during the game itself.
4. Consent. All participants should agree to the conventions of the game: system, theme, content warnings, interaction styles, and character traits.

Recommendations:

1. Knowledge of the rules. The GM should know the rules at a sufficient level to successfully conduct the game. The “Golden Rule” (or “The Master is Always Right”) is still in effect, but try not to overuse it. If you are playing a game for beginners, make sure to include this in a special section when registering the game. Be prepared to provide all printed materials to the beginner and explain the rules before the game.
2. Fairness. Give all players equal opportunities. Maintain neutrality and encourage fair play aimed at mutual enjoyment. There is no need to pressure players who are not enthusiastic or constantly limit hyperactive participants. Try to maintain a balance so that everyone finds their star moment in the game.
3. Flexibility. The duration of one game session is no longer than 4 hours. Be prepared to adapt the scenario or pace of the game according to the dynamics of the table and the needs of the participants.
4. Reflection. A short discussion after the game is recommended so that players can share their impressions. This contributes to the development and improvement of the gaming experience. You will also be asked to fill out a feedback form via QR code, Telegram link or paper questionnaire.

Important clarifications:

1. If you have free spots for the game, we recommend that you warn the organizers in advance that you are ok with recruiting additional players on the day of the festival. In this case, prepare all the necessary handouts to choose from for the players who come to your game at the last minute.
2. You will receive the contact details of the registered players. You can contact them in advance and clarify all the details.
3. It is recommended to agree on the use of “stop words” or gestures that signal discomfort.