Session Zero Checklist

Session zero is a group activity to help plan and prepare for starting a new campaign or adventure.

Session Zero is a planning session that takes place between the group before beginning a new campaign. It's used to discuss important aspects of the upcoming game, such as the game's genre, setting, tone, house rules, character creation guidelines, and the expectations and boundaries of the group. It's a valuable opportunity to ensure that everyone is on the same page, fostering a shared understanding of the game's direction and themes.

Story

The story is the heart of any campaign, and it's essential for players and the host to discuss the narrative direction together. This includes character backstories, relationships, and key plotlines. The goal is to build a compelling, cohesive narrative where all players feel involved and motivated.

• GENRE: Clarify whether you're going for fantasy, sci-fi, horror, historical, or other genres.

• SETTING: Discuss the specifics of the setting, including its time period, technology level, and any unique features. Provide an overview of the game world's history, major factions, cultures, and important locations.

• TONE AND THEMES: Determine the desired tone of the game, whether it's serious, lighthearted, gritty, or epic. Discuss themes you want to explore, such as heroism, survival, or personal growth.

• GAME PLAY: Decide the balance between roleplaying interactions and gameplay mechanics. Will the game emphasize character interactions and decisions, or will it include strategic combat and skill challenges?

• GOALS: Share the overarching goals of the campaign, whether it's to thwart a villain's plans, explore uncharted lands, or achieve personal milestones. Ensure characters' motivations align with these goals.

Game Rules

Every group may have slightly different expectations for how rules are interpreted and enforced. Discussing rules during Session Zero ensures everyone has the same understanding of how the game will be played and what modifications may be in place.

• CHARACTERS: Provide details on character creation rules, such as allowed or restricted backgrounds, skills, special powers or any other game element. This ensures that characters fit well within the world.

• TABLE DYNAMICS: Discuss communication norms, turn-taking, and ways to make sure everyone has a chance to contribute. Address any preferences or concerns regarding spotlight time.

• DEATH: Discuss how character death will be handled. Is it permanent, or are there ways to bring characters back to life? Clarify how new characters will be introduced.

• HOUSE RULES: If you're using any house rules or modifications to the core mechanics, explain them clearly so everyone is on the same page.

Code of Conduct

A positive and respectful environment is key to creating an enjoyable game experience for all players. Setting expectations for player behavior and table conduct ensures everyone feels comfortable and included.

• ROLES: Discuss the roles and responsibilities of the host and the players. Discuss any rules related to the general code of conduct and set expectations and boundaries with regard to behavior between the host and players. Discuss any specific tools that will be used to mitigate behavior crossing established boundaries, such as warnings, timeouts, or table expulsion.

• SAFETY TOOLS: Discuss using safety tools like Lines and Veils, the X-Card system, and other tools to ensure that the group knows how to navigate sensitive topics and uncomfortable moments during gameplay. Ensure everyone feels comfortable with the game's content themes and any potentially controversial or sensitive topics.

• CONFLICTS: Discuss boundaries for conflict between characters in the group. The director should ensure that everyone understands that any conflicts, mild or otherwise, between characters in the game should not be interpreted as a conflict between players. Some amount of friction between characters is expected, and occasional conflicts should be viewed as a fun role-playing opportunity that players are encouraged to enjoy.

• DISPUTES: Talk about how disputes or rule interpretations should be resolved, both during game sessions and between sessions. During game sessions, that could be a vote among players, a final ruling by the director, or other alternative methods.

Schedule

Consistency in scheduling helps maintain momentum and ensures all players stay engaged in the campaign. It's important to agree on a schedule that works for everyone, while also being flexible when conflicts arise.

• SESSION LENGTH: Determine the typical duration of your sessions and how often you'll play, whether it's weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly.

• FREQUENCY: Determine the typical duration of your sessions and how often you'll play, whether it's weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly.

• SCHEDULING: Discuss which days of the week are best for everyone and decide on the most convenient time slot. Confirm everyone's time zone and make sure all players are clear on the session start time in their local time. Establish when the campaign will begin and discuss any expected breaks or end dates (e.g., around holidays or busy times).

• COMMUNICATION: Agree on a way to remind everyone about upcoming sessions, such as using calendar invites, group messages, or reminders on a shared app.

• ABSENCE: Decide how the game will proceed if a player is absent. Options might include rescheduling, continuing without the player, or using a stand-in.