Player Complaints

It is not possible to please every player all the time, and DMs ought not to even try to do so. There will inevitably be times when players disagree with a decision you have taken. It is important both to listen to any comments that players make, and to not let them disrupt the course of a session.

Example: Player A disagrees with your interpretation of an RP Spell that their PC has just cast and wants to discuss it at length. Instead of debating the matter during the session, leaving Players B, C, and D stranded, you tell Player A that you will not discuss it now, but will listen to what he has to say if he wants to PM you afterwards.

Remember both that many players have extensive D&D knowledge – and may have extensive NWN DMing experience – and may be able to help you develop as a DM. Of course, other players may not be so helpful: DMs are not obliged to engage every complainant in lengthy debate – listening to what they have to say is enough. Do not let noisome players diminish your enjoyment of the game, or take up more time than you have available. ALFA has structures in place to deal with individuals whose actions damage the enjoyment of others and DMs should be aware of when it is appropriate to make use of them.

Example: Player A’s Teleport fails, with serious tactical consequences, because of the presence of an anti-magic artefact, the centre of a yet-to-be-unravelled plot. Player A PMs you to complain and to demand an explanation. You should tell Player A that there was a good reason for the failure and advise him to investigate in-game, in character; you do not need to provide any explanation beyond that. If the player continues to press for an OOC explanation, remind them that they are not entitled to one: if the player persists, bring the matter to the attention of your HDM or the DM Administrator.

Ultimately, DMs are the arbiters of the in-game world and players need to respect DM decisions: it is the duty of the DM to ensure that those decisions are worthy of respect.

Formal Complaints

If players have serious concerns about DM decisions they are entitled to raise the matter with either the appropriate HDM or directly with the DM Administrator, who will investigate. In such circumstances, an AR will be made available to assist the DM.