Dungeons and Dragons: Family Fun or a Night Out with Friends?

Many tabletop role-playing games (TTRPGs), including Dungeons and Dragons (DnD), are often associated with groups of friends. But what about playing with family members? Is DnD a suitable game for the whole family to enjoy, or is it more suited for a night out with friends?

When Does DnD Work with Family?

It's not uncommon for TTRPG enthusiasts to find themselves running and playing aspiring DnD adventures with their significant others (S/O) or family members. However, the suitability of DnD for family play largely depends on the group dynamics and personal relationships within the family. There needs to be a certain level of trust and comfort for it to work effectively.

The Role of Social Relationships

For some people, the opportunity to set aside time for a TTRPG is seen as a break from the demands of family life. This break from family dynamics is often welcomed, especially when board game or TTRPG nights are considered a regular 'night out' from the usual routines of work, school, or home life. However, this doesn't mean that family play isn't possible or enjoyable.

Creating a Social Contract

When it comes to running a TTRPG session, it's important to maintain a social contract where everyone has a voice and feels valued. In my experience, adopting a 'democratic' approach to game management has allowed me to build a trust-based table dynamic. This means that input from all members, even the youngest, is considered, and this trust has led to a long-lasting and stable group.

Pre-Existing Trust and Newcomers

Trust is crucial when adding new players to your group. It's essential to have pre-existing relationships and a level of trust with the rest of the group. This can help ensure that new players are well-received and that existing dynamics remain positive. For example, in my current group, we've had reliable play for over six months, and recently, we've successfully integrated a new friend into our table who was known to two members of the group. The addition of this new player didn't disrupt our dynamic, and the social contract was upheld.

Family Dynamics and Social Baggage

Board games and TTRPGs can be social events that happen routinely. However, it's important to leave certain family dynamics at home. Family members and significant others often bring a different social dynamic to the table, which can be challenging to navigate. Setting boundaries and maintaining a prosocial environment where everyone feels comfortable and trusted is crucial for a successful gaming session.

Trust and Reciprocity

It's also important to note that trust isn't a one-way street. Just as you feel free to express opinions and have an influence on the game, so too should other players. Maintaining a two-way trust ensures that everyone's input and feelings are valued, leading to a more enjoyable and inclusive experience.

Conclusion

Whether DnD is a game for your family or just for friends depends entirely on your group dynamics and personal relationships. While it may be challenging to mix family dynamics with a gaming session, creating a strong social contract and maintaining pre-existing trust can make for a memorable and enjoyable experience. Ultimately, the key is to foster a space where everyone feels welcome, respected, and like they have a voice.