How is the Dungeon Master (DM) Chosen in Dungeons Dragons?

In the intricate world of Dungeons Dragons (DD), the role of the Dungeon Master (DM) is a crucial one. But how is this person selected? Is it a random choice, or is it a decision made by the players themselves? The process can vary widely from group to group, often involving a blend of agreement, cooperation, and the natural inclination of individuals towards leadership or storytelling.

A Common Practice: First DMs and Rotations

Typically, the choice of the first DM isn't a random one. It is often determined by a mutual agreement within the group, with each person taking turns at the helm. This ensures that everyone gets the chance to immerse themselves in the role and its responsibilities.

For example, my friend John became the DM for DD, while I took on the game of Mutant Epoch. Similar arrangements were made for other games. But this dynamic can shift over time as players grow more interested in different aspects of the gaming experience.

Charity and Curse: The Next DM in Line

The DM for the next session is usually chosen as a break for the previous DM. This can be seen as an act of kindness, but it can also lead to unexpected adventures.

I, for instance, found myself stepping in for John to run DD and Mutant Epoch. This role rotation is part of a cooperative dynamic where players take turns, but it can sometimes lead to circumstances where the old DM never returns.

Is There a Ritual to Choose the DM?

While the idea of a sacrificial ritual may seem outlandish, there are lighthearted traditions within some groups. A playful and humorous ritual can be part of the selection process, involving promises and induction ceremonies.

One such ritual, which skirts the line between a joke and a joke gone awry, mimics a sacrificial rite. It begins with finding a suitable candidate, often a newcomer or someone unfamiliar with the intricacies of DD. The candidate is then convinced of the DM's power and the allure of the role, through hushed words and false promises. This induction process can be quite persuasive, complete with the burning of old character sheets and the handing over of ceremonial "stone tablets," in the form of the Player's Handbook and Dungeon Master's Guide.

A More Serious Case: The Unwitting FOOL

In some groups, the process is more serious and can involve a certain level of insincerity. For example, in Mutant Epoch, the group might find a candidate, typically a new player, and convince them of the DM's authority and the unique power of the role. Once convinced, the DM is then put through the ringer with false promises and inducements, leading them to believe they must attend regular meetings and embrace the "home brew" secrets that only the DM can bring to the table.

Then, come a full moon, the initiation begins. Character sheets of the past are burned, new ones are drawn, and the hopeful candidate is laid out upon a 1x1 grid map. Hushed words are whispered, and the group confirms the candidate's willingness to take on the role. After accepting, a solemn prayer to the god Guy Gacks is recited, and the candidate is ultimately inducted.

Consequences of the Selection

After the induction, the new DM must quickly prepare for their first session. If lucky, the players might not show up due to scheduling conflicts, allowing the DM to find their footing. However, if the players do appear, they are likely to behave on their best behavior during the session, knowing that they might not have another chance to veto this new DM.

These rituals and practices, though playful and sometimes exaggerated, can highlight the importance of trust and cooperation within a DD group. The selection of a DM isn't just about who can take on the role, but also about who is willing to embrace the challenges and responsibilities of being a person who shapes the entire gaming experience.

Conclusion

The process of selecting a Dungeon Master in Dungeons Dragons is a blend of tradition and cooperation. Whether through ritual, rotation, or mutual agreement, the role of the DM requires a certain level of trust and shared commitment. As a group, finding the right person to take on this crucial role is a testament to the collaborative spirit of DD communities.