Who Makes the Rule?

I don't like this video at all. I am a baseball fan, and this video is pretty terrible. That said, it does bring up an interesting point, or at least a subject to discuss for D&D. What is a good way to make rules when an issue comes up in game? The player(s) wants a ruling to go one way (represented by the hitter in the video), and the DM (represented by the pitcher) wants it another. The pitcher could also represent another player at the table and not the DM. What is the best way to solve those issues? The umpire in the video seems to go back and forth, and takes several minutes but has no real power to make rules. The MLB, whatever their process is, made a decision following the game. What's interesting is what input was listened to and respected during the actual game.

A player or myself might notice something about a spell or an item that begs questions. How does something work with respect to a particular situation? Does a full strength Cube of Force allow for sufficient oxygen? You get the idea. Around my table, we discuss it as a group. Players who have opinions attempt to relay their opinions. The DM does as well. The best argument tends to win, and a rule is made. This process does not necessarily take context into account, and is admittedly informal. But what it is not is the DM getting his or her way all the time.

Okay, you are a long-time DM. Your players are brand new. I would hope that the players would have more than a little respect for decisions the DM makes. Surely the DM has come across problems before and ruled with some wisdom. That assumption is unwarranted, perhaps, but we can see situations where the new players shouldn't be deciding. On the other hand, as I think aloud, a new DM running with experienced players should not be quick to judge against them.

I am not discussing DM authority here. That needs to be in place, just as an umpire still has some authority in baseball. The process for making rules at the table should be open. As much time as needed should be made. Perhaps a situation allows for greater contemplation. Maybe everyone around the table could go home at the end of the session and think about the decision during the week. Openness is the theme, that and respect.

I am also not talking about problem players who might use argument to ruin a session. If you are not mature enough to abide by a rule, then perhaps you need to grow up a bit before you play with me. I have unpopular "stun" rules in my game, but my players have accepted the fact.

So, don't be an autocrat. While your players certainly have a lot of desires for their characters, and would, perhaps, choose an easy path for character advancement, their input can also be very fair and thoughtful. We can not assume that good players are always competing with the DM for their own advantage. Listen to your players. Do it today.

Not enough to sway you? Well then there is this better written piece.