Roleplaying Games Safety & Content Guidelines

For all Roleplaying game sessions run at Tabletop Legends

Roleplaying is about crafting stories where everyone at the table feels safe, included, and engaged. These guidelines are here to help both games masters (GMs) run great games while protecting the comfort and wellbeing of everyone. They are also here for Players to understand their responsibilities within each game and what to expect from their GM.

1. GMs Know Your Players

Take a few minutes before each new campaign or one-shot to check in with your players. Ask what kind of tone they enjoy (light, dark, gritty, heroic, comedic).
Use a consent or safety tool if you’re running mature content — e.g. Lines & Veils, the X-Card, or a simple “Pause / Fast-Forward” rule.
Remember that what’s fun for one player may be distressing for another. Adjust accordingly.

2. Handle Sensitive Content with Care

Avoid including real-world hate, discrimination, or graphic violence against specific groups.
Depictions of harm, horror, or trauma should serve the story — never the shock factor.
Get clear consent before running mature or horror-themed material and clearly mark your game as such when advertising it.

3. Keep Everyone Safe

If someone asks to pause, skip, or stop a scene, do so immediately and without debate.
If a player seems uncomfortable but hasn’t spoken up, check in privately after the session.
Follow the club’s Code of Conduct at all times - it applies equally to GMs and players.
Report any incidents or concerns to a committee member (especially if they involve safety, harassment, or discrimination).

4. Respect the Table

Give everyone equal spotlight - no one should feel sidelined or talked over.
Encourage cooperation and fair play; discourage PvP unless part of the story.
Keep house rules consistent and transparent. The goal is shared fun, not control.

5. Mind the Tone

Even horror or grimdark campaigns should offer moments of relief or agency.
Set expectations clearly: “This will be a gritty survival story” “This game may include body horror.” “This game will depict despicable evil”
Be mindful of combining horror and cyberpunk or fantasy themes - balance tension with safety and empathy.

6. Respect Personal Property

GMs may bring in rule books, dice, maps, miniatures and other gaming aids. Treat them with respect and ensure safe return at the end of each session.

7. End on a Good Note

After each session, check in: “Everyone okay with how that went?”
Offer players a chance to talk about what they liked or what felt uncomfortable.
Close with a small debrief - it keeps the fun grounded and the group connected.

8. Remember Why We’re Here

You’re the host of a shared story, not a referee in a competition.
Keep the table creative, collaborative, and kind. If players feel safe, they’ll take bigger risks - and that’s where the best stories live.