Are You About to Get Kicked From the Table?
Dungeons & Dragons is one of the best RPGs around. You don a new character, meet like-minded people, and spend a few hours every week scouting for adventure. But with collaborative games comes troublesome players, and we’re here to break down which traits make you the best and worst kind of player.
1. You Don’t Show Up
D&D relies on punctuality and enthusiasm—and players who don’t show up can quickly derail a campaign. It’s one thing to get called into work last minute, but it’s another to cancel every session, ghost people, or leave players in the dark about a change of plans.
2. You Don’t Learn Anything
To call D&D overwhelming is…an understatement. For new players, you have everything from guides and YouTube videos pumping you with information, and it’s hard to keep on top of every rule. However, it’s important at least to learn the ins and outs of your character. Even if you need to ask questions, come prepared with some knowledge.
3. You’re Just There to Cause Trouble
Ah, the instigator. While they’re not inherently terrible players, there’s a thin line between diving into battles and causing unnecessary trouble. A good dungeon master curbs this kind of behavior, but not everyone is willing to stop the guy who launches fireballs into an innocent camp.
4. You Make Excuses
We’d all love to be a level-one wizard with heavy armor and 500 HP, but it’s just not in the cards. Players who create nonsensical builds won’t win any brownie points at the table. Dungeon masters won’t—and shouldn’t—budge on basic rules just to appease one player. So, tell your low-level bard to put down that greatsword.
5. You Aren’t Invested
It’s obvious to everyone when another player isn’t interested in the campaign. They’re either on their phone or don’t make notes, and they haven’t spent any time learning about their character. It’s even worse when they don’t show up and then complain about missing important plot points.
6. You Question Everything the Dungeon Master Does
No one said you have to agree with everything the DM does. With so many rules and characters to monitor, dungeon masters might forget a few things along the way—but correction isn’t the same as challenge. 5e rules differ greatly from BG3, so questioning every little thing the DM does only stresses them out.
7. You Have a List of Demands
Do you want your ranger in green armor instead of red? Would you prefer they’re left-handed? No problem! Do you, on the other hand, insist you get heavy armor that grants advantage on stealth checks? Do you refuse to any other weapon than the one you built yourself? Now it’s hairy territory.
8. You Make Things Weird With Other Players
There’s absolutely nothing wrong with open-minded characters or flirtatious NPCs—so long as everyone’s on board. Players who try to touch other characters or fluff off behavior as “part of their character” make it uncomfortable for everyone. They’re usually kicked from the table too.
9. You Metagame Too Much
Metagaming isn’t necessarily a bad thing! However, it all depends on how you and the DM go about it. So long as you and the dungeon master work together to make the most cohesive series of events, you’re in the clear. But if you make forbidden knowledge obvious, it tends to spoil it for other players.
Moroboshi assumed (based on copyright claims). on Wikimedia
10. You Don’t Include Anyone Else
A big part of D&D is encouraging a collaborative environment. Players who don’t engage with others or only act in their own interests quickly irritate everyone else. If you’d rather play in a small group, it’s best to ask ahead of time.
Though some players make campaigns a little harder, others slide right into a DM’s favorite kind of player. Let’s explore which ones make the best experience.
1. You’re Part of the Team
The best players ensure everyone has a good time! They listen to other people, remember pieces of their lore, and keep them involved during battles or decision-making. They might gently razz other players too, which can make it even more fun.
2. You Pay Attention to What’s Going On
Dungeon masters pour a lot of time into their campaigns, so they always appreciate players who listen. Whether you’re the one to recap previous sessions or stay on top of minor details, everyone loves the person who pays attention.
3. You’re a Fair Homebrewer
Homebrewing can make or break a campaign. When you run creative lore by the dungeon master, you both get to build a unique story together, which is way better than introducing some weird, unbalanced story. Good players also introduce their ideas to other players so everyone’s on the same page.
4. You Act Out Your Character
Some people find the “actor” a little annoying, but we’re the complete opposite. We admire people who dive into their characters—new voices, funny mannerisms, and thorough backstories keep every player immersed.
5. You’re a Storyteller
You don’t need to be a DM to tell a good story. Great D&D players come equipped with a full backstory and their character’s motives, which helps curb campaigns. They’re ready to dive right into the action and carefully think about the ins and outs of their character.
6. You’re Enthusiastic About the Campaign
DMs love a little enthusiasm! From thanking dungeon masters after a great session to the simple act of showing up on time, good players look forward to what’s in store for them. That kind of enthusiasm also inspires others.
7. You Don’t Take Things Personally
We know it sucks to get a critical miss but that’s just how the dice rolls. The best players don’t take crummy rolls or difficult boss fights to heart. Dungeon masters try to keep things fair and getting upset over acts of fate can rub people the wrong way.
8. You Engage in Table Talk
Don’t be shy about table talk. Asking questions or opinions shows fellow players that you respect their opinions. It’s a great way to engage with others and keep things collaborative.
9. You Understand Your Character
Even the most seasoned players misremember rules—but good D&D players at least have a basic understanding of what their character can do. Dungeon masters don’t want to have to explain the rules every time, especially if you’ve been playing for several weeks. That’s what your sheet is for! 
Harrison Baere on Wikimedia
10. You’re a Responsible Player
From showing up on time to turning your phone on silent, responsible players make the whole campaign better. DMs and fellow players alike appreciate anyone who takes the night seriously.
