GM Advice: Session Zero

Hey everyone,

Today's GM advice is all about the pre-game, specifically the one session that can make or break a campaign before it even starts: Session Zero. It is one of the most important tools a Game Master has, and it's a step I never skip before starting a new campaign. It’s a session where everyone gets together to lay the groundwork for the adventure to come, and it can prevent a huge number of problems down the road.

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What is a Session Zero?

A Session Zero is a collaborative meeting before the first official game session. Its purpose is to make sure everyone is on the same page and excited about the game they're about to play. It's not about rolling dice or fighting monsters; it's about setting expectations and building a solid foundation.

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Why is it So Important?

Running a good Session Zero accomplishes several key things at once:

1. Establish Tone and Expectations

This is where you, as the GM, pitch the campaign. Is this going to be a gritty, serious game of political intrigue, or a light-hearted, high-action dungeon crawl? This is the time to align everyone's expectations. If one player is expecting a silly beer-and-pretzels game and another is expecting a deep, character-driven drama, there's going to be friction. A Session Zero gets everyone aimed in the same direction.

2. Create Characters Together

Instead of everyone showing up to session one with a character they made in a vacuum, a Session Zero allows for collaborative character creation. Players can create characters that have pre-existing relationships and a reason to work together. This helps avoid the classic "five strangers meet in a tavern" problem and builds a more cohesive party from the very beginning.

3. Set Boundaries and Safety Tools

Every table has different comfort levels. A Session Zero is the perfect time to discuss boundaries and implement safety tools (like Lines and Veils or the X-Card). This is where you can ask players if there are any themes or topics they'd prefer to avoid in the game. Establishing these boundaries upfront creates a safe and comfortable environment for everyone, ensuring that the game remains fun for the entire group.

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A Quick Session Zero Checklist

Here are the key points I always try to cover in my Session Zeros:

• The Campaign Pitch: A brief, 1-2 paragraph summary of the game's theme and style.
• Tone & Themes: Discuss the expected tone (e.g., serious, goofy, horror) and any major themes.
• Character Creation: Build the characters together, establishing links between them.
• Boundaries & Safety: Discuss any hard "lines" (things that won't be in the game) and soft "veils" (things that can happen but will be "fade to black").
• House Rules: Go over any homebrew rules or rule changes you'll be using.
• Scheduling: Confirm the game schedule and how to handle cancellations.

Taking an hour or two (or twelve with some character creation systems 😄) for a Session Zero is an investment that pays off for the entire life of a campaign. It ensures everyone starts on the same page and is ready to have a great time.

As always,
Michael Garcia a.k.a. TheCrazyGM