The Quiet Damage of Comparison at the Table
There’s a poison that seeps into a game slower than envy, quieter than rage, but just as deadly — comparison. Aye, I’ve seen good campaigns sink to the bottom of the ale barrel because folks couldn’t stop measurin’ themselves against the next lad or lass at the table. Maybe it’s their lucky rolls. Maybe it’s their shiny loot. Maybe it’s the way the GM seems to chuckle more at their jokes. Whatever it is, it’s eatin’ at yer fun, and it’s got to stop.
The truth is, comparison don’t make ya better — it makes ya bitter. It’s like drinkin’ saltwater when yer thirsty. The more you gulp, the thirstier you get. And the more ya look at another player’s victories, the less you value yer own.
Mid-Session Reminder: If you find yerself thinkin’ “I wish I was as good as them,” take a breath and find one thing in the game that you can add right now. Could be a smart tactical move, a funny in-character quip, or just remindin’ the party of a past victory. That’s contribution, lad — and it matters more than bein’ the table’s biggest star.
Why Comparison’s a Campaign Killer
First, it warps yer role. Instead of playin’ to strengthen the party, you’re playin’ to beat the party. That’s not teamwork — that’s sabo-foolery. Second, it turns every win into a loss in yer head, ‘cause if it’s not your win, it somehow don’t count. By the time you notice the damage, trust’s already slipped away.
If you’re lookin’ for some inspiration on workin’ together instead of against each other, take a look at Loot Don’t Mean Leadership, Ya Gold-Grabbin’ Pebble Counter or Yer Not the Main Course, So Stop Hoggin’ the Spotlight. Both’ll knock a bit o’ sense into ya about what really makes a game thrive.
And if that envy’s got teeth, maybe it’s time to reread That Grudge Yer Clingin’ To? It’s Ruinin’ the Game — Let It Go, Lad before it takes a bite out of yer fun.
How to Break the Cycle
Name It. Acknowledge you’ve been keepin’ score in ways that don’t matter.
Flip It. Instead of thinkin’ “They’re better,” ask “What can I learn from ‘em?”
Drop It. Stop tallyin’ every perceived imbalance and focus on what makes this moment fun.
And if yer still strugglin’, I’ve got two words for ya: walk away. Sometimes the best fix for a game that’s bringin’ out the worst in ya is findin’ a table that brings out the best instead. Or, if yer feelin’ bold, start yer own table — pick players who share the spotlight, and you’ll never need to measure yerself against anyone again.
FAQ: The Quiet Damage of Comparison at the Table
Q: Is it wrong to want to be as good as another player?
A: No lad, it’s only wrong when that want makes ya bitter instead of better.
Q: What if the GM really is favorin’ another player?
A: Then it’s time for a respectful chat. Lay it out plain, without accusin’. GMs ain’t mind readers.
Q: Can friendly competition be healthy?
A: Aye, if it stays friendly and never overshadows the story. Keep the game first, braggin’ rights second.
Q: How do I know if I’m comparin’ too much?
A: If another player’s win makes ya groan instead o’ grin, you’ve crossed the line, lad.
