Guarding the Party: Vetting New Players

Why Adding New Players Matters

Tabletop RPGs thrive on collaboration, trust, and shared storytelling. When a group has already built a rhythm, introducing a new player can either enrich the dynamic or disrupt it. That’s why it’s worth treating the process with care. Read on for how to do that.

📝 The Case for Short Form Interviews

Think of a short form interview as a casual but intentional conversation before someone joins the table. It doesn’t need to be formal — 10–15 minutes is enough. The goal is to understand:

• Playstyle preferences: Do they enjoy roleplay-heavy sessions, tactical combat, or exploration?
• Experience level: Are they brand new to TTRPGs or seasoned veterans?
• Scheduling and commitment: Can they reliably make sessions, or do they prefer drop-in play?
• Creative interests: What kinds of stories or characters excite them most?

This step ensures alignment between the new player and the group’s established culture, and evaluating whether they’ll be a good fit.

🤝 Getting to Know the Person First

Beyond mechanics, you’re inviting someone into a social circle. Some things to ask about could include anything you’d like, but here are some suggestions:

• Their favorite stories, games, or characters.
• What excites them about joining your campaign.
• How they imagine contributing to the group dynamic.

These conversations build rapport and help everyone feel more comfortable when the dice hit the table.

I recently met a GM for a group playing Deadlands, which is a unique alternate history Civil War setting. It reminds me of a cross between Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Hunter and Jonah Hex. I’m fascinated by it, but others may not be.

Jake, Exiles Gaming

⚠️ The Consequences of Skipping This Step

If you skip a process, you risk:

• Mismatched expectations: A player who wants high-stakes combat might feel bored in a roleplay-heavy campaign, which could lead to ridiculous, unnecessary murder-hoboing.
• Scheduling headaches: A player who can’t commit regularly may stall the group’s momentum, especially during key moments.
• Loss of cohesion: The established players may feel their dynamic is disrupted, leading to disengagement.
• Problematic dynamics: Without vetting, you may invite players who clash with the group’s usual play style or personality, creating friction that drains energy from the table, or even someone who intentionally disrupts the group.

In short, skipping the “get to know you” stage can turn what should be a fun addition into a source of tension.

🎯 Final Thoughts

Adding new players should feel like expanding the story, not risking its foundation. A short form interview is a simple tool that protects the group’s chemistry while welcoming fresh energy. It’s about respect — for the new player, for the existing group, and for the shared world you’re building together. Looking at a new gaming group? All you need is a set of dice!