Mike’s Rant

There’s one in every party.

Soft-spoken. Watchful. Never interruptin’.
They smile when others shine, and they wait their turn without complaint.

But somehow, every session ends and they’ve spoken maybe twice.

And it ain’t cause they’ve got nothin’ to say — it’s cause the rest o’ ya keep talkin’ over them like you’re auditionin’ for a solo campaign.

IF YOU DON’T LET THEM TALK, I’LL CAST SILENCE — ON ALL OF YA!

1. Volume Ain’t the Same as Value

Louder don’t mean better. Just cause someone’s quiet don’t mean they’re passive, slow, or disinterested.

Maybe they’re:

New to the game
Socially cautious
Roleplay shy
Tryin’ not to step on toes

That’s not a weakness — it’s restraint. And if you never give ‘em room? You’re not a great player — yer just hoggin’ the spotlight.

Want proof? Look at The Quiet Player’s Guide to Gettin’ Noticed. It ain’t about speakin’ louder — it’s about speakin’ well.

2. Invite, Don’t Pressure

Don’t shove the spotlight in their face. Just open the door.

Say:

“You got anything you wanna do here?”
“What does your character think?”
“Would you like to lead the next one?”

Then shut up and listen.

Let the moment breathe. Let it be theirs. And don’t swoop in the second they hesitate — silence ain’t failure. It’s thinkin’.

A Table That Listens Is a Table That Lasts

Don’t just play with folks — play for them. Be the kind of player who lifts voices that ain’t their own.

👉 Check the rest of the Player Tips if you want to be more than just “the funny one” or “the tactician.” Be the one folks want back — every campaign, every time.

3. GMs, This One’s on You Too

If you see the same players dominatin’ scenes? Redirect.

Say:

“Let’s check in with [quiet player] for a moment.”
“You’ve done a lot — let’s pause and hear from someone else.”
“Anyone who hasn’t acted yet want to weigh in?”

Yer job ain’t just to run monsters — it’s to run a space where everyone plays.

Want scrolls for GMs strugglin’ with table balance? Point ‘em toward What to Do When Nobody Prepares But You. There’s wisdom in the corners o’ the table — sometimes you just have to light it.

4. If You Are the Quiet Player — Yer Voice Matters

Lad, I see ya. And I’m tellin’ ya now:

The table is better when you speak.
Even once. Even softly. Even weirdly.

Let your rogue get a full sentence out before the bard interrupts. Let your druid share a memory. Let your warlock say “I’m scared” without someone makin’ a joke.

You’ll be remembered — not because you yelled — but because you chose your moment.

Want to see how a subtle build can hit hard? Look at The Sorcerer With No Idea Where His Powers Come From. He don’t speak much either — but when he does? It matters.

Be the Player Who Makes Space — Not Just Noise

The best players know when to talk — and when to invite others to speak.

👉 Contact the Tavern if yer table’s strugglin’ to balance voices. Or check the FAQ for more on supportin’ new players without drownin’ ‘em out.

FAQ

Q: What if the quiet player says they’re fine not talkin’?
A: That’s fair. But check in now and then. Give the option, not the obligation.

Q: How do I help without makin’ it awkward?
A: Be casual. Short, kind invites. And don’t pressure if they pass.

Q: I’m the loud one. How do I stop interruptin’?
A: Catch yerself. Take notes during others’ turns. Write yer ideas down instead of shoutin’ ‘em out.