Technology has obviously become a huge part of our modern lives. Gamemasters should embrace it, especially if you are not prepping for sessions.
Technology provides role-players a lot of helpful options when we’re at the gaming table. Let’s use everything at our disposal to help us create better RPG sessions and campaigns.
PowerPoint in TTRPGs
Using PowerPoint is more useful if you are preparing for sessions. I used to this, but now that I usually don’t prep I don’t. But there are those who can benefit from the tip.
If you have access to a TV during your RPG sessions you could create a PowerPoint deck of certain interesting locations, pictures of cities, pictures of people and then as you play show your players what exactly you’re talking about.
For example, if your players are on a long journey you can gather beautiful pictures of landscapes, waterfalls, forests, mountains, deserts, or whatever you need. This can create a really in-depth environment and experience for players especially ones that are more attuned.
I created massive slide decks for my epic Jedi campaign years ago and my players loved it. Sadly, it was too much work. However, technology can be used to cut down GM prep.
Laptop or Tablet for RPGs Sessions
If you can have a laptop or tablet at hand while you are gamemastering, you have a world of information and resources at your fingertips. You can look up random tables, rules, and maps as you need them without any prep.
Any time you need a creature, just do a Google search all of the D&D OGL monsters are online with full stats.
If you need a map google, “dungeon maps.” You will find some amazing dungeon maps that you can use right on the spot.
For example, recently was running a post-apocalyptic session. I rolled on a random table and my players found a half-buried submarine. Of course, they wanted to search it for loot.
I needed a map of the submarine quick.
I had my laptop next to me, so I hopped online. I was able to find a map of a submarine from a simple Google search. I was able to describe the inside to the players as they were searching the submarine for goodies.
Also, having PDFs of random tables or of the rules on your device is a tremendous help. You are able to search quickly through the entire document and find the rule you need fast.
Using Google Maps in Tabletop RPGs
Depending on what game you’re playing and what time period it is set in, you can use Google Maps. If you’re playing a modern setting or a near-future setting you can simply use Google Maps as your world map.
For example in my post-apocalyptic OpenD6 game called Anarchy, a main feature of the game is to use Google Maps concurrently while you play.
I simply Chromecast the Google map to a TV screen. Players can see exactly where they are. The landscape and buildings are right there. It brings the game to life in a very realistic manner without.
Other Tech Uses in Tabletop RPGs
There are many more ways you can use technology when running Tabletop RPGs. Here are some more examples.
- Send secret text messages certain players
- Show pictures of NPCs
- Have the players choose pictures of their PCs
- Have a group message thread to discuss the game
- Display a map so everyone can see it easily
And the list goes on and possibilities are limited only by your preferences. In short, use technology to cut down your GM prep and have more fun.
Coming Up
More tips on no-prep GMing and more. Never miss a post and get free dungeon maps.