Podcast Summary: "How to Be a Better TTRPG Player with Ross Bryant" | Quests N’ Answers

Introduction

In the episode titled "How to Be a Better TTRPG Player," hosted by Dan Casey of Geek & Sundry, Ross Bryant joins as a guest to delve into the intricate world of tabletop role-playing games (TTRPGs). With a rich background in improvisational theater and experience in various actual play podcasts, Ross offers unique insights into enhancing the TTRPG experience for both players and game masters.

Ross Bryant’s Journey into TTRPGs

Ross Bryant begins by sharing his late introduction to TTRPGs, emphasizing that unlike many who discover these games in childhood, he became an "adult adopter." His fascination was initially sparked during a visit to a comic book shop in Norfolk, Virginia, where he encountered TTRPG modules for games like Forgotten Realms. However, the complex numbers and tables left him perplexed about the game's mechanics.

Notable Quote:
"I would have fallen head over heels in love with them, but I just never was... I’m an adult adopter of these games."
[02:43]

Ross’s gateway into TTRPGs occurred when a friend from his improv group in Chicago invited him to play GURPS (Generic Universal RolePlaying System), marking his "Road to Damascus moment" where he recognized the profound potential of TTRPGs.

The Intersection of Improv and TTRPGs

Ross elaborates on how his background in improvisational theater significantly influences his approach to TTRPGs. During the pandemic, feeling constrained in traditional theater, Ross and his friends formed the "Stream of Blood" streaming channel, which later became part of the Glass Cannon Network. This transition provided a creative outlet that fostered "imaginative communion with your friends."

Notable Quote:
"It became this incredible creative outlet at a time where... I felt extremely constrained and, like, bummed out at the idea that maybe improvisation in art form is about to just vanish."
[04:06]

The Ritualistic Nature of TTRPGs

A significant portion of the conversation delves into the ritualistic aspects of TTRPGs. Ross draws parallels between TTRPGs and historical communal rituals, highlighting how the act of rolling dice and creating a shared narrative mirrors ancient practices of storytelling around the campfire.

Notable Quote:
"These games have always... been infused with this sort of charged with this sort of occult energy... it's like a communal ecstatic ritual."
[09:47]

Ross discusses how elements like random chance (e.g., dice rolls) and collective imagination contribute to the ritualistic experience, fostering a sense of shared reality among players.

TTRPGs as an Art Form

The conversation emphasizes TTRPGs as a unique art form where every participant actively shapes the narrative. Unlike passive forms of entertainment like movies or video games, TTRPGs allow for dynamic storytelling where each player’s actions and decisions influence the unfolding plot.

Notable Quote:
"There is nothing like it that's such an ecstatic experience... I truly think that these games are an art form."
[17:38]

Ross contrasts TTRPGs with other media, pointing out that the collaborative nature of storytelling in TTRPGs creates a deeply satisfying and emotionally resonant experience.

The Value of Play and Mental Health

Dan Casey and Ross Bryant discuss the intrinsic value of play, especially in the context of modern life’s relentless pace and stress. Ross argues against viewing play as frivolous, emphasizing its importance for mental well-being and creative expression.

Notable Quote:
"Play is just good for you... We do these things because we love them now, not just because... it's going to create new linkages in my neurons or whatever."
[29:23]

Ross cites Ursula K. Le Guin to counter the notion of TTRPGs being merely escapist, framing them instead as vital outlets for imagination and communal bonding.

Chill Touch: Merging Improv and TTRPG Mechanics

Ross introduces "Chill Touch," a live comedy improv show that subtly incorporates TTRPG mechanics. The show involves improvised scenes inspired by audience suggestions, integrating dice mechanics to generate unique combinations that fuel the performances. This fusion aims to blend the spontaneity of improv with the structured storytelling of TTRPGs.

Notable Quote:
"The premise of our show is that we build a table of suggestions... and we create unique combinations that the dice allows to inspire us to do our scenes."
[31:13]

Ross explains that "Chill Touch" serves as an homage to the genres beloved by TTRPG enthusiasts while providing a fresh platform for improvisational performance.

Storytelling and World-Building in TTRPGs

Drawing from his improv background, Ross discusses his approach to storytelling and world-building as a Game Master (GM). He emphasizes the importance of focusing on what characters want rather than rigidly adhering to preconceived plots. This method encourages organic story development driven by characters' emotional motivations.

Notable Quote:
"As long as a character is always pursuing something they want, and the more personal and sort of emotional it is, the better, the more they push for that plot just happens. It happens totally organically."
[37:53]

Ross also highlights the benefits of improvisation in adapting to players' unexpected actions, ensuring that the narrative remains fluid and engaging.

Favorite TTRPGs and Recommendations

Ross shares his favorite TTRPGs, including "Call of Cthulhu" and "Blades in the Dark," praising their narrative focus and innovative mechanics. He also introduces a lesser-known game, "Eat the Reich," which combines World War II settings with vampire lore, showcasing his enthusiasm for games that offer unique and engaging premises.

Notable Quote:
"Blades in the Dark, the flashback mechanic in that is so awesome... It empowers everyone to contribute to the narrative and the world-building."
[58:08]

Ross encourages listeners to explore both popular and indie TTRPGs to discover diverse storytelling opportunities.

Conclusion

The episode wraps up with Ross Bryant promoting his upcoming shows and encouraging listeners to engage with his work on platforms like Instagram. Dan Casey reinforces the episode's central message: the importance of integrating play and storytelling into one's life for both personal enrichment and communal connection.

Notable Quote:
"Come and follow me there. And please come. Like. Dan was so kind, bringing up the Improvised Shakespeare Company with those kind words."
[65:10]

Where to Find Ross Bryant

Listeners interested in following Ross Bryant’s endeavors can find him on Instagram under the handle @RossBB. Additionally, fans can attend his improv shows, including the Improvised Shakespeare Company and Chill Touch, which are available both live and via live stream.

Final Thoughts

This episode of "Quests N’ Answers" offers a deep dive into the multifaceted world of TTRPGs through the lens of Ross Bryant’s rich experiences in improvisational theater and actual play streaming. Whether you’re a seasoned player or a curious newcomer, Ross’s insights provide valuable perspectives on enhancing the TTRPG experience, emphasizing the blend of creativity, communal storytelling, and the inherent artistry within the games.