Discussing Party Dynamics

As the GM, you’ll want to ensure that the party dynamics are healthy and that everyone has a role to play in the game. Discussing party dynamics during session zero can help prevent conflicts later on. You should discuss how the characters know each other and why they are working together, and any potential conflicts that might arise within the group.

Establishing House Rules

Every TTRPG campaign has its own set of house rules. During session zero, you should discuss any additional rules or modifications to the core rules of the game. This can include homebrewed rules, rule changes, or any rules specific to your campaign.

Discussing Equipment and Resources

During your session zero, you’ll want to discuss the equipment and resources available to the players in your campaign. This can include magic items, weapons, armour, and any other resources that might be available to the characters. You should also discuss how characters will obtain these resources and any limitations or restrictions on their use.

Discussing Game Mechanics

You should have a conversation with your players about the game mechanics during session zero. This includes discussing how combat, skill checks, and other game mechanics work. You should also discuss any additional mechanics specific to your campaign.

Discussing the Campaign’s Objectives

It’s important to discuss the objectives of your campaign during session zero. This includes discussing the main story arc, any subplots, and potential side quests. This will help your players understand what they’re working towards and what their goals are within the game world. You can also discuss any potential rewards for completing objectives and how those objectives might tie into character motivations and backstories.

Wrapping Up

After discussing all of the above items, it’s important to wrap up session zero with a final discussion and agreement from all players. You can review the expectations and boundaries discussed, clarify any lingering questions or concerns, and establish a plan for future communication and feedback. Make sure everyone is on the same page before you start the actual gameplay.

A session zero is an essential part of any successful TTRPG campaign. It sets the foundation for the game and ensures that everyone is on the same page before starting the actual gameplay. By using this comprehensive session zero checklist, you can cover all the necessary topics and ensure that your players are invested and engaged in the campaign. Remember to communicate openly with your players and be flexible in your approach to the game. With the right preparation and communication, you can create an exciting and memorable TTRPG experience for everyone involved.