Best Of

@FleaMarket said:

@person said:
My experience so far has been that people understand that its part of the game. The games I've been in have been pretty non judgmental spaces with other people who would like to do the same. You're playing with others who are on board, not a bunch of unaware normies.

I think those who can find such a group are very fortunate. To be both among and also one of those on board. Have you watched much of Critical Role @person? I'd be interested in your take on their dynamic. Even professionals such as them, I'm not sure it's always understood to be part of the game.

I'll echo @Jeroen 's post, that people who play table top games, board and RPG, are on the more socially awkward side of the spectrum and tend to be pretty supportive and open. Though there are certainly awkward people there who don't get it, but they seem to be in the minority.

I listen to the podcast version while working usually. I listened to all of campaign 2 and am pretty much up to date on campaign 3. Regarding their dynamic, they're long time friends so there is plenty of good will built up, and my understanding of the acting/improv world is that in the process of experimentation and spontaneity sometimes lines are crossed, but its accepted that that can happen. I don't see much of it among them though.

Regarding your anxiety in general. Its usually better to take small steps and acclimate gradually, rather than just imagining yourself jumping right in and acting super outgoing. I've spent a lot of time gradually working my way out of social anxiety, probably worth a thread in itself, and have plenty more work to do. I can say that the standard go to strategy of hiding out and protecting oneself doesn't work in the long run and usually makes things worse, it reinforces to the brain that socializing is dangerous.

I have to say, it’s been my experience as well, @FleaMarket Role-playing groups tend to be made up of people who understand that it’s all part of the process, who have some connection to the idea of ‘play’ as an adult. It’s all fun and part of the game, and sometimes there’s a little joking around and you take that in your stride, sometimes people give you compliments on good play and saving the group, it varies.

There tends to be a process, a gradual opening up, when you join a role playing group. There is a bit of feeling your way, of gently trying things out as you get to know each other. Of course some things are left until later, and these are generally the more sensitive areas.

Emotional trust seems really important when playing with a group. The vulnerability of adding your personality to the performance knowing others may respond in harmful, playful, dismissive, or encouraging ways. I, my self, am quite sensitive to those responses. Maybe less sensitive to the way I respond to others.