Running a RPG

Running Games

Role-playing games are aimed at new and experienced players. Games are typically expected to be 4 hours long and accommodate 6 players. (Although alternative game lengths and player counts will be considered).

We consider all RPG systems and editions except playtest editions.

RPG games are run in 4 hour slots commencing from 09:00, 14:00 and 20:00 on Friday and Saturday and 10:00 and 15:00 on Sunday.

If you decide to run a RPG at UK Games Expo there are several things you should consider before submitting your game. This guide includes what we expect from you as a GM (Gamesmaster) and conversely, what you can expect from us.

In addition, we'll cover:

• What type of game we are most likely to accept and why
• How you submit your game
• What to do if you have any problems or questions.

Below, we've included some frequently asked questions that may help you to decide:

Do I need to be a professional GM?

No. If you're happy to, you can become a GM for a group of players you've never met before!
All conventional GM's have to start somewhere and while UKGE is a large convention it does have some of the best GM support systems available. So, as long as you are willing to provide your best effort, we're happy to present you with the opportunity.

What type of games can I submit?

We accept pretty much any system that players want to play.
This includes: DnD, Pathfinder, Call of Cthulhu, Alien, Traveller, Runequest.
Also one shot games such as Honey Heist, Everyone is John, often prove to be great convention games.

Our golden rule is:

Do we think there will be a demand to play it?
If so, we'll be happy to host it.
Please note: The least successful submissions are likely to be 'Homebrew' systems.
RPG Systems still in playtest are not suitable for the RPG schedule.

How many games can I submit?

As a sensible rule, we recommend a maximum of 5. We consider, anything over this amount may become an onerous task and difficult to manage successfully. It may also have a detrimental effect on the participating players.

What support is there for GMs?

Support is offered in various ways by UKGE.

Accommodation

If you have 5+ games accepted by the RPG Manager then we will provide accommodation within the UKGE accommodation block. This will typically mean you will be offered a hotel room, including breakfast, for the Friday and Saturday night. This will be a shared room with another GM. You can request who you share with.

Show Entry

For each four hour game of six players you will be given one day entry to the show. So if you run a game each day this will give you a three day pass for the show. The pass is not transferable and can only be used by the person running the games.

Food vouchers

For GMs running 5+ games food vouchers for each show day will be provided. The value of these vouchers will be the equivalent of a lunch item from the food court vendors at the Hilton Hotel. These vouchers cannot be replaced if lost and cannot be exchanged for cash. They are only valid for the year they are issued.

RPG Manager

Before the show you can direct any questions you may have to our community manager. They can be contacted on rpgs@ukgamesexpo.co.uk

At the show there is an onsite RPG Manager who can deal with any onsite issues you may have. Details of how to contact them are given in your welcome pack.

Room Captains

In each RPG room there are several tables. One table has a yellow table cloth and the GM at that table is designated the room captain. If you have any difficulties with a player or the room you can speak to them and they are there to support you and help deal with the problem.

Scenario Library

UKGE holds and is building a number of convention suitable scenarios from various popular RPGs. These can be made available to you if you want to run a game but are not sure what to run.