Sometimes, you’re just not feeling it. You love playing, but the motivation for your upcoming tabletop RPG session is just not there.
Even the most devoted tabletop RPG fans can feel unmotivated before an RPG session. Maybe you’re physically tired, mentally drained, or just not in the mood to roll dice and roleplay. Well, there’s good news?
There are plenty of ways to reignite your excitement and show up, ready to create an amazing story with your group. Whether it’s getting your body moving, finding creative inspiration, or connecting with your fellow players, these tips will help you gear up for your next RPG session, no matter how “blah” you’re feeling.
This is the beginning of a two-part series. By the time you are finished, you will have plenty of hacks to always be willing and ready to play in your tabletop RPG session.
Exercise: Get Your Body Moving Before the RPG Session
Physical activity is an excellent way to shake off lethargy and gear up for your RPG session. When you move your body, you increase blood flow, release feel-good endorphins, and clear mental fog—all of which helps you approach the game with more energy and focus.
How to Do It
Take a Walk: A brisk 10-minute walk does wonders for both body and mind. Let the rhythm of your steps guide your thoughts as you imagine the challenges your group might face in the RPG session. If you’re the Game Master (GM), use this time to brainstorm unexpected twists or memorable NPC quirks.
Stretch It Out: Combat the fatigue of sitting all day with quick stretches. Loosen your shoulders, roll your neck, and get ready to lean into maps or character sheets with renewed vigor.
Dance Party: Match the vibe of your RPG session with a fitting playlist. If your group is diving into Blade Runner, try some moody synthwave. Prepping for Vaesen? Let eerie Nordic folk music set the tone as you let loose for a few minutes.
Example
Picture this: it’s game night, and you’re scheduled for an exciting Numenera RPG session. But instead of feeling pumped, you’re yawning on the couch. You lace up your sneakers, step outside, and take a quick stroll around the block.
With every step, your thoughts shift to your character. What relics might they uncover tonight? By the time you return, your excitement has caught up with the anticipation of the RPG session.
Goal-Setting for Your Character
One of the easiest ways to feel more engaged in an RPG session is to set a goal for your character. Having a small, achievable target gives you purpose and a sense of accomplishment, even if the larger narrative feels overwhelming.
How to Do It
Start by reflecting on your character’s personal journey. What motivates them? Use this to define a session-specific goal, like “discovering a key clue” or “forging a bond with another character.”
Think of roleplay moments that can create fun, memorable interactions. For example, aim to tell a story from your character’s past or reveal a hidden trait.
Your goal doesn’t have to be serious. Sometimes it’s about creating levity in an otherwise tense RPG session. Maybe you want to make the whole table laugh with a perfectly timed one-liner.
Example
Imagine you’re preparing for a City of Mist RPG session, playing a journalist-turned-sleuth who’s trying to expose a conspiracy. Instead of waiting passively for the GM’s prompts, you decide your goal for the session is to gather enough intel to blackmail a rival. This intention gives you a clear focus, making every clue and NPC interaction feel meaningful. It’s a small step for your character, but it turns the RPG session into a dynamic and fulfilling experience.
Read Novels or Listen to an Audiobook
Immersing yourself in thematic media is like a warm-up for your imagination before an RPG session. Stories with similar tones or themes can inspire new ideas and get you in the right mindset.
How to Do It
Choose a story that complements your RPG session. If you’re playing Blade Runner, read a classic noir novel like The Big Sleep or listen to Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep?
Audiobooks are especially convenient—you can enjoy them while commuting or prepping dinner before your RPG session.
As you engage with the story, think about what excites you. Is it the pacing? The character dynamics? The vivid setting? Let those elements influence your approach to the RPG session.
Example
It’s the night before a Vaesen RPG session, and you’re feeling a little disconnected from the game. You queue up an audiobook of The Witch Elm by Tana French, a moody thriller set in a mysterious countryside.
As you listen, the eerie atmosphere and twisted plot spark ideas for your character. By the time you sit down for the RPG session, you’re primed to embody the haunting tone of the world, and you feel ready to bring your A-game.
Group Inspiration: Chat with Your Group
Sometimes, the best way to get excited for an RPG session is to connect with your fellow players. Sharing enthusiasm and ideas with your group reminds you why you love the game and can reignite your energy.
How to Do It
Before the RPG session, start a group chat or call. Ask everyone what they’re looking forward to or what they hope to achieve during the session.
Share your own goals or ideas. Hearing what excites your friends can help you see the session in a new light.
Use humor and camaraderie to break the ice. A few jokes or funny predictions about the session’s events can get everyone laughing and hyped up.
Example
You’re scheduled for an Outgunned RPG session, but the thrill of high-octane action isn’t hitting you like it usually does.
In the group chat, someone says, “We need to pull off a Die Hard-style escape this time.”
Another adds, “I’m bringing my character’s dual pistols—they’re going full John Wick tonight!”
Suddenly, you’re picturing your own hero leaping through explosions or swinging from a helicopter. The group’s hype is infectious, and you’re back in the mindset to kick off an epic cinematic adventure in the RPG session.
Motivation can ebb and flow, even for the most experienced players. But with a few simple strategies—getting your body moving, setting goals for your PC, finding creative inspiration, or leaning on your group—you can transform your energy before any RPG session.
The next time you feel unmotivated, try one of these methods and watch how quickly the spark returns.
Remember, every RPG session is an opportunity to create stories your group will treasure for years to come. So lace up your sneakers, set a goal, or send that pre-game meme—it’s time to make your next RPG session more immersive, enjoyable, and meaningful!
