If this is your first time using the Deck of Player Safety, don’t worry! It’s quick and easy. Just read the suggested guidelines below and check out the INSTRUCTIONS page for adding the Deck of Player Safety to your game. The Deck of Player Safety makes your life as a Game Master easier as it can prevent problem topics and behaviors from arising in the first place so you don’t have to deal with them during or after the session.

Make clear the theme of your game:

When advertising your game, be upfront about the subject matter of the adventure. If it is all about assaulting the Temple to the Snake God, make sure everyone knows it includes SsSsSsSnakeSsSsSs right from the start. This can prevent anyone with a snake phobia from sitting at your table in the first place.

You are the facilitator…

…and in control of your game.  If a topic arises that should not be part of your game, you are responsible to immediately halt the game and address the issue.  It can be a simple “Let’s move on from that topic.” but if you are running a convention or organized play session and ever feel you need additional assistance, pause your game and consult the organizers for your event.  They are there to help and support you.

“Hotter-than-hot” topics are off the table:

For convention and organized play, your game should respect the G, PG-13, or 17+ rating established by your organization. With that in mind, certain “hotter-than-hot” topics are not in the deck and should be excluded by default.  Those topics include but are not limited to: rape or sexual abuse, suicide, animal abuse/torture, child abuse, mental disabilities, mocking physical disabilities, sexism, homophobia and anything else you deem too “hot” for your game. Do not discuss these “hotter-than-hot” topics with your players (unless asked) as even their mention could be sensitive for some.  Should any players engage in a “hotter-than-hot” topic, or any topic selected from the deck, immediately intervene and move on from the topic. 

You have the hot buttons, now what?: Check the ADJUSTING YOUR GAME page for suggestions on how to adjust your game on the fly.

NOTE: If children are present, either run a Rated G game, or have their parents review the deck for them.