I almost exclusively run PBTA games nowadays because of this. And if the players are totally inexperienced we’ll run a one-pager like Lasers and Feelings or Honey Heist first.
Rules just bog down the play speed too much unless everyone is an expert, paying attention, AND not drunk, which is basically never.
If this happens, the RPG is too complex for that player. Play a simpler system.
I almost exclusively run PBTA games nowadays because of this. And if the players are totally inexperienced we’ll run a one-pager like Lasers and Feelings or Honey Heist first.
Rules just bog down the play speed too much unless everyone is an expert, paying attention, AND not drunk, which is basically never.
Or get less simple players
In my personal experience that’s much more difficult
You could give AI players a go. Give a seat to each of the major AI systems
Can’t be worse than player drama even when one starts bullying the others.
Sounds horrible tbh. A big part of the hobby is meeting new friends. This sounds like a good way to become socially isolated and depressed.
It wasn’t a serious suggestion