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New GM: Player wants a new character early in the game (lemmy.sdf.org)

submitted 11 months ago by OneCardboardBox@lemmy.sdf.org to c/rpg@ttrpg.network

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We're 3 game sessions deep into a Vampire the Masquerade chronicle. I've just heard from one of my players that they feel like they've put a bit too much of themselves into their character, and they're starting to get uncomfortable with it. As such, they'd like to roll up a new char sheet and bring their current character out of the game. We've talked a little bit about whether they want their character to die, or to permanently leave the party, and that's still up in the air.

This is my first time as GM, and I'd like a few pointers on how to work with this. From an "off the table" perspective, I've already had a conversation with this player about what their needs are. I'm confident that the overall game is still fun for them, and that this isn't about any player-player dynamics.

From a narrative perspective, I'd love to hear how others have dealt with this before. In the past 3 sessions, I haven't had the chance to bring out the kind of enemies who could kill a PC outright (bloodthirsty elders, second inquisition deathsquads, conniving underlings). I don't want the player to have to go through several more sessions with a character they dislike just because it would have more punch further down the line.

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[–] K3zi4@lemmy.world 6 points 11 months ago

Few options available here I'd say, though I'm not aware of Vampire the Masquerade! Do the other players know that this player wants to reroll?

Definitely work closely with the player throughout the process and have them make the major decisions needed, though it's an excellent opportunity to drop a shocking moment on the rest of the party if they are happy for the character to die in order to feed the tension and danger of the story. It could be a good opportunity to introduce a huge villain in the story, a taste of what they'll eventually have to face down the line.

Other options could include taking something from the characters backstory that prompts them to leave the group in search of their own answers- retiring the character but leaving the option open for the future. Your players new character could be introduced as a prisoner or hostage, or even as an individual on their own mission that aligns with the current group.

There are so many different ways to approach, but the most important thing is ensuring the player is happy with the decisions. Having a little brainstorming session with them in private and putting a plan together you're both happy with is absolutely key though!