GM Moves

Question 1

GM Move - Use a Monster, Location, or Danger Move

Answer 1

e. g. The chain devil takes someone captive.
e. g. The bridge collapses.
e. g. The bugbears invade.

Question 2

GM Move - Reveal an unwelcome truth

Answer 2

Reveal how much trouble they’re in.

Question 3

GM Move - Show signs of an approaching threat

Answer 3

Hint that something really bad could happen unless they do something.

Question 4

GM Move - Deal damage

Answer 4

e.g. The basilisk bites you, take 1d10 damage.

Question 5

GM Move - Use up their resources

Answer 5

e. g. The orc’s axe crashes into your shield, shattering it.

e. g. The ogre’s club bashes into you, your magical focus is flung into the distance.

Question 6

GM Move - Turn their move back on them

Answer 6

The player’s actions have unintended consequences.

Question 7

GM Move - Separate them

Answer 7

e.g. The mindflayer teleports the bard outside of the Dungeon

Question 8

GM Move - Give an opportunity that fits a class’ abilities

Answer 8

e. g. Place a trap for the Thief

e. g. Place an undead horde for the Cleric

Question 9

GM Move - Show a downside to their class, race, or equipment

Answer 9

e. g. Your torch draws attention
e. g. Dwarves are despised here
e. g. This city doesn’t allow metal weapons

Question 10

GM Move - Put someone in a spot

Answer 10

Put them, or something they care about in the path of destruction. Give them a tough choice.

Question 11

GM Move - Tell the requirements or consequences and ask

Answer 11

Useful when something is not covered by a move or when they have failed a move. Offer them a hard bargain, with difficult requirements or consequences.

Question 12

GM Move - Offer an opportunity, with or without cost

Answer 12

Show them something they want. Optionally, hint at an associated cost.