Handling a Rules Lawyer at the Table

At some point in the life of a GM, there has been that one player whose knowledge of a system is infallible. They studied it, played it since they were but a mere child, and are ready to remind you of every little discrepancy in the rules even if it hurts their fellow party members. They can end games and ruin friendships, but most of all they can make the game a no fun quagmire for the GM.

Handling this sort of player is a true test of social skill, requiring a bit of a backbone as a GM. Before you even consider approaching them on this, look at a few factors:

-          Are the players verbally or visibly upset when the Rules Lawyer starts to grumble?

-          Is the Rules Lawyer only speaking up when it is in their favor?

-          Most importantly, is the Rules Lawyer hurting your enjoyment of the game?

If they tick any of these options above, then you need to take action immediately. If you let it linger, it will hurt the game in the long run and people will drop out. Worst of all, if it bothers you the most, it can hurt the quality of the game resulting in a massive degradation of player enjoyment that can be difficult to come back from.

Turning the negative energy the person at the table is generating into a positive one can be difficult. Often times many will understand if you tell them to bring any rules questions up after the game with you, in order to keep the table moving and play time unbroken. However, there are a few who will take this as a way of silencing them, being unwavering in their dedication to the written word of RAW (Rules as Written). The best way to handle this is turn that negative energy into something positive for the whole table. Let them know that you could use their expertise and knowledge in areas such as Skill Resolution, which is often times a section that many players are unfamiliar with. Have them help the group out by providing basic handouts on commonly misunderstood rules that can slow a table down if they get out of hand. Using the person as a tool instead of a hindrance is a great way to turn their energy into something that benefits all, and can help take a burden off of your shoulders!

It is sad to say however that there are many who will try to abuse their standing knowledge of the game for their own goals, or to harm other players at the table. Trying to speak with them can prove futile as they continue their old ways, or worse, start to become distraught at the table. These players should be cut from the roster and a replacement found, if possible. It is the hardest thing to do as a GM, but think of the game and your enjoyment. Think of the time and energy everyone else, including yourself, have put into the table. Will it sour some grapes? Yes, but in the long run it is worth a bit of heartbreak for a long term relief of knowing you can enjoy your own games.

Remember at the end of the day: The GM’s word is law, and for good reason. Never be afraid to back up your feelings or decisions.