Rewarding

Its that time of year again...

Time to re-watch those classic movies, to meet loved ones and give gifts! With a spirit of sharing I have an idea I wanted to share.

Most RPGs allow for conditional bonuses, a +2 boost if you are putting in extra effort... Most RPGs also offer bonuses for good role playing. Extra XP points or a re-roll if your head is "in the game."

Usually the GM hands these out, but there is no reason the players themselves cannot award an MVP!

When the game is over, have players nominate and decide from themselves who did "the best" for the day! The reward for this winner should all be decided upon by the group, players and GM.

Even better the reward should be something appropriate to what made that player stand out. Paying close attention in a dangerous fight scene can boost defense for example. Or helping explain a complicated plan to others may temporarily boost a character's intelligence.

In addition to the rewards granted, this mini election also has some secondary effects.

Chiefly, it helps prevent a GM from picking favorites. A referee and judge who is partial to one side will not be making good and fair decisions. The players can help do that instead by choosing who they think did a great job. It may well be the same player who is chosen as the best for every game. But if everyone feels that way then that is where the story goes. Encourage that good behavior.

Another thought on voting this way, is that you might ask players to vote in secret, to justify their nomination, or take turns picking a winner themselves. This can help draw attention to elements of game play others were not noticing. If one player wants to reward behavior other people missed or thought unimportant, that players voice is amplified when acknowledgement is given. Acknowledgement and recognition help to round out of game for everyone involve. To help prevent it from being an event for 2 or 3 "active participants," and some "observers."

Obviously you want your involvement in the game to be good for everyone at the table. A MVP award if just another way to ensure everyone is contributing and that those contributions are welcome.