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GUIDELINES FOR TEACHING / LEARNING NEW GAMES
LEARNERS
TEACHER - 1 person only
Defer completely to the one willing to take on the onerous task of explanation.
First state the aim of the game, end triggers, and how to win.
Try not to interrupt unless a key point is unclear.
Hand out any available player aids before you start to explain.
Expect to be a bit confused for a while. You’ll understand more after playing a bit.
Try to explain in a logical order, matching the order of play as much as possible. Repeat how to score/win just after play begins.
Do not take the rulebook during the initial explanation. There is no teacher but the teacher.
Move bits around to show visual examples.
Save questions until the end. Do not induce the tight jawed “I was getting to that.”
Do not read word-for-word from the instructions. Skim through and then summarize in your own words.
Never ask the teacher to cut to the chase. Learning rules is part of the game - Enjoy it or pretend to enjoy it.
Deal with unwanted, idle or repetitive questions with excessive patience, restatement and exaggerated clarity.
Refer to any player aids that may be available both during the explanation and as you begin to play.
Do not show every single card and explain its powers. Just the parts of the card, types that exist, and existence of any that make a difference for strategies.
Expect to lose your first game. Don’t take too long on deciding actions, but it’s ok to ask for advice on your first turn or two.
Mention the number of cards, resources, etc. available if it makes a difference to strategy. Give a little general strategy advice during first few turns.
If you also know the game, try not to join in the explanation unless correcting something. There should only be one teacher.
Ask for questions before starting play. Help people out a bit during their first few turns.
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