Yer Not the Main Course, So Stop Hoggin’ the Spotlight
Mike’s Opening Rant: It’s a Party, Not a One-Dwarf Play
Had a ranger once — wouldn’t let anyone talk to an NPC without cuttin’ in first. Had a cleric who treated every scene like their personal sermon. Had a warlock who’d shove past plot, players, and portals just to make sure their tragic backstory hit center stage again.
And every time ya try to move on?
“Wait, I still have one more thing to say.”
NO, LAD — YA SAID TWELVE THINGS ALREADY AND THE TAVERN’S ON FIRE!!
Yer Voice Ain’t the Only One That Matters
👉 Mike’s Tavern believes in balance — in shared scenes, shared stakes, and shared story. Learn to listen, not just speak. Start with Tavern Etiquette and visit Player Tips if ya need a crash course in self-awareness.
Spotlight’s Meant to Rotate — Not Blind the Party
We all love a good moment. That critical line. That quiet flash of pain. That triumphant charge. But if yer the one who always needs to speak last, cry loudest, or punch biggest, then what yer doin’ ain’t story — it’s stage-hoggin’.
Here’s what spotlight hoggin’ looks like:
Interruptin’ other players’ scenes with “Well, actually…”
Doin’ extended solo scenes while the rest o’ the party sits quiet
Recenterin’ every arc to point back to yer own tale
Stallin’ scenes with monologues, over-detailin’, or narrative greed
Wanna stand out? Earn it. Don’t just take it.
If Yer Table’s Waitin’, Yer Roleplay’s Hurtin’
Ever notice the table go quiet when ya talk? That ain’t awe — that’s fatigue. If folks are leanin’ back, lookin’ at their phones, or stiflin’ yawns, yer “great moment” is landin’ like a goblin fart in a sauna.
Want scenes that sing?
Captain Nail, the Law in Broken Armor — knows when to act, and when to let others shine
The Sword That Remembers Every Kill — powerful, poetic, and leaves space for others
The Goblin Cleric Who Hates Healing (But Does It Anyway) — never the center, always the soul
The Table Works When Everyone Gets a Bite
Think of the game like a feast. If you’re grabbin’ seconds before the others get their first plate, you’re just bein’ rude — even if the food’s good.
Better to build a scene together than to chase personal glory alone.
And if yer worried you won’t get your moment?
Then maybe try makin’ moments for others. Funny how often the spotlight returns to folks who share it.
FAQ
Q: What if I just really love roleplaying?
A: Great. Use that love to support others — not overshadow ‘em.
Q: How do I know if I’m hoggin’?
A: Ask. Watch. Count. If you’re speakin’ more than three other players combined, it might be time to rein it in.
Q: What if I’ve got a big character arc?
A: So do others. Make room for theirs. That makes yours stronger, not smaller.
The Best Stories Are Shared — Not Stolen
👉 Mike’s Tavern is where the best roleplayers know when to step back. The quieter ya are, the louder yer impact can be. Learn from the Best | Talk to Mike
