Rolling or not rolling dice as a GM? Analysis and insights

Pubblicato il 12/10/2025

Among game masters and roleplaying enthusiasts, this question always sparks discussion: as a GM, is it better to roll dice or not? Every group has its own habits, and sooner or later every GM asks themselves what philosophy fits best for their table.

Some prefer total transparency, rolling the dice in front of players and accepting whatever result comes up. This approach gives the game a kind of tension that involves everyone, including the GM, who experiences the same uncertainty as the group. This is especially valued in systems where randomness is a key part of the narrative and even the most dramatic moments can be determined by a single roll. Others do not like to leave too much to chance. They prefer to roll secretly or even avoid rolling altogether. Story control and protecting the pivotal moments become the main focus. Those who follow this philosophy say their goal is to give players a coherent and balanced experience, sometimes even bending the rules to keep the plot consistent and meet group expectations.

There are also games and systems where the GM never rolls dice and leaves everything in the hands of the players. This choice tends to make the narrative flow more smoothly and helps keep players directly involved. In some cases, this approach streamlines gameplay, but it can take away from the GM the thrill of risk and the excitement that every random result brings. Some see dice rolling as a truly collective experience. Sharing the outcome with everyone adds adrenaline to the table and lets the GM feel like a player too. Throwing the dice together almost becomes a small ritual, reinforcing group spirit especially when the story moves in unpredictable directions.

Every table finds their own way, sometimes mixing different approaches, sometimes choosing based on the game system and the atmosphere they want to create. Talking openly with players and listening to what works best usually leads to better results than any written rule.

What type of GM are you? Share your experience in the comments.

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