Confessions of a Game-Mistress

Often my husband and I, or one of my friends and I, find ourselves in the unenviable position of not having a handy gaming group to play with. As the usual game-mistress, I am delighted to help out in this situation. One-on-one games can be fun!

One-on-one gaming is a different environment than playing with a group, and therefore has some VERY different challenges.

As a GM, the one-on-one aspect means that I am the sole voice for all the other beings in the world. Whether the player is playing one character, or several in troupe-style, all the interactions hinge around the GM. I have to think harder about the world the character is in, and how they can be satisfied with the environment while keeping the sheer number of NPCs to a mildly-reasonable level. (Most of my players would tell you I don’t succeed in the last bit. I talk to ‘myself’ a lot. )

One-on-one can also be liberating, as the game can be tailored tightly to the playstyle and preferences of the player. Group consensus isn’t required, the player is by default the party leader, and the player sets the tone. Roleplaying is highly encouraged in 1on1 play, as otherwise things fall flat fast. Most of my 1on1 games involve very little combat, but that’s the preference of my players. Complex plots and mysteries can also be tailored to the swiftness level of the player.

The downsides. 1on1 play either requires a driving plot or a motivated player. It can stall out if the plot fades, or the player is content to react instead of act. It also requires much legwork on the part of the GM - fewer players means fewer people to remember what that NPCs name was, or where exactly the McGuffin was supposed to be.

On the plus side, 1on1 means you’ll be able to draw people out more. I always run a 1on1 piece with any new gamer coming into our established group - that way I’ll get a feel for their likes and dislikes, and they can feel out my gaming style. It also means when you are stuck on the long car ride in the dark, you and your buddy will have something to entertain you besides talk radio, and you’ll stay awake. (If you’re falling asleep while gaming, you need to pull over anyhow. )

Oh, and lest we forget, if you’re doing this with your spouse/significant other, 1on1 gets much more fun. Like romance in your games? Live action play is a great spice!