1) Play The Character
Dungeons & Dragons and similar games are based on role-playing. Obviously you will have more fun if you attempt to play as if you are that character, but at the same time the game is only a game—which should really be obvious to everyone and a statement I shouldn’t need to make. Even so....
- Your character is not you.
Don’t be afraid of getting into character. If you’re playing a Warrior, go ahead and charge into the fray ahead of everyone else. If you’re a Priest, hang back and keep your allies alive. If you’re in a town trying to get information, you’re probably not going to ask nicely if you’re a scary, tough, or impatient individual. This is fine, and adds to the fun of the game.
- Your character is still you.
You don’t have to think completely different than you normally do as you. If you’re going through a dungeon and spy a chest, and your group has run across trapped chests in the past, it’s fine if you don’t immediately rush over and open it. Just because you have a low intelligence doesn’t mean you’re dumber than the rocks blocking that last corridor, and just because you have high wisdom doesn’t mean you always remember where you put your scroll of Firebolt. Again, just play for the game.
- The other characters pay attention.
If you act like a coward and dart back two corridors every time a threat appears, the other players will start leaving you behind. Likewise, if you regularly charge ahead to kill first and leave your mages open to attack, you may often find yourself with no Cleric around to save your life. Any game is more fun when you play as if you’ve got comrades at your back; and besides, why act like a map is a solo mission when you’ve got someone around to help you out?
These tips are really common sense concepts. Broken down, they mean don’t be afraid to have fun, don’t go overboard, and . . . well, have fun. Ultimately, it’s just a game, so enjoy it.
