Dos and Don'ts of Player vs Player Combat in Tabletop RPGs



Player vs player (PVP) combat can be a divisive topic in tabletop RPGs. Some players enjoy the tension and drama of fighting against each other, while others feel uncomfortable with the idea of their characters turning on each other. If you're going to engage in PVP combat in a tabletop RPG game, there are some important dos and don'ts to keep in mind.

Do: Establish Ground Rules

Before engaging in PVP combat, make sure everyone at the table is on board with it. Talk it out beforehand and make sure everyone is comfortable with the idea of their characters potentially fighting each other. Establish clear rules for the combat, including what actions are allowed and how damage will be calculated. Make sure the rules are fair and consistent, and try to avoid any situations where one player has an unfair advantage over another.

Don't: Force PVP Combat on Unwilling Players

If anyone at the table is uncomfortable with the idea of PVP combat, don't force it. Remember, everyone should be able to enjoy the game without feeling pressured or uncomfortable. Respect the feelings and comfort levels of your fellow players, and be willing to adjust or even abandon PVP combat if it's not working for the group.

Do: Roleplay the Conflict

PVP combat can be a great opportunity for roleplaying and character development. Make sure everyone is invested in the narrative of the combat, and that the outcome is driven by the characters' motivations and actions, rather than just the dice rolls. PVP combat should be a chance for the characters to explore their relationships and conflicts with each other, not just a battle for supremacy.

Don't: Make it Personal

Remember, it's just a game! Don't let in-character conflict spill over into out-of-character hostility. Avoid attacking another player's character for reasons that are personal or unrelated to the game. Keep it respectful and professional, and remember that everyone is there to have fun.

Do: Consider the Consequences

PVP combat can have lasting consequences for the characters involved, and it's important to consider the impact of those consequences on the game world and the other players. Make sure everyone is prepared for the potential fallout of PVP combat, and that the consequences are fair and consistent with the game's setting and tone. If one player's character is killed or permanently incapacitated, make sure the other players have a chance to react and respond to the event.

Don't: Make it All About Winning

The goal of PVP combat should be to create an interesting and engaging story, not to "win" at all costs. If one player is dominating the combat, it can quickly become frustrating and unenjoyable for the other players. Remember that the game is a collaborative effort, and everyone's enjoyment and comfort should be a top priority.


Do: Keep it Fun

Ultimately, tabletop RPGs are about having fun with friends. If PVP combat is causing more stress and frustration than enjoyment, it's not worth it. Make sure everyone is having a good time, and be willing to adjust or even abandon PVP combat if it's not working for the group.

In conclusion, the dos and don'ts of PVP combat in tabletop RPGs come down to establishing ground rules, respecting the feelings and comfort levels of your fellow players, roleplaying the conflict, considering the consequences, avoiding personal attacks, not making it all about winning, and above all, keeping it fun. Remember, PVP combat can be a great way to create tension and drama in a game, but it's important to do it right.

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