When the GM needs to quickly correct a mistake

What tips do you have for gamemasters who need to quickly correct themselves?

Catching up with The Immortal Think Tank got me thinking. In this November 2023 strip, we see how this GM effortlessly re-did history to return to the current scene as planned. Was this the right thing to do?

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Fixing GM errors on the fly

I’m no “How to GM author”, but here are my thoughts on how to make a quick correction.

Own the Retcon

• Be Transparent: When a mistake is made, address it directly. A simple “Hey folks, quick rewind…” sets the right tone.
• Keep it Brief: Explain the change succinctly. Avoid over-justifying, as this breaks immersion.
• Humour Helps: A bit of lightheartedness (“The wizard miscast!”) eases tension if appropriate.

Minimize Disruption

• Impact is Key: Assess the error’s potential disruption. Minor details might be better addressed later.
• Flow First: For major mistakes, a quick retcon is better than stopping play for prolonged rule debates.
• Player Input: If unsure how to correct, involve players: “We have a hiccup – quick vote on how this works…”

Prevent Future Issues

• Use “Rule of Cool”: What’s most fun for the table often trumps strict rules adherence. If it makes the game better, bend it.
• Note the Issue: Make a mental or physical note of the mistake for post-session rules checks. This prevents repetition.
• Embrace Learning: Everyone makes mistakes! GMs are no exception. View it as a learning opportunity.

Additional Considerations

• Game Type: Narrative-heavy games allow more flexible retcons than those with mechanics-focused combat.
• Experience: Seasoned GMs often improvise better, minimizing the need for major fixes.
• Forgive Yourself: Even the best GMs slip up. Focus on creating an enjoyable experience for everyone.