I’ve been running an online Traveller campaign for the last couple of months with players from my home country so I can communicate in my language. After searching for players, I ended up with a group of five, but there’s one player, let’s call him Ben, who’s been a real issue. Initially, he seemed okay, but soon it became clear that he’s not adapting well to the game. He’s quite technophobic; despite my efforts to teach him the basics of Discord and character sheets, he refuses to learn, which slows down our sessions that only happen every two weeks.
Moreover, I found out he was cheating on his rolls after noticing he never rolled below a 10, which is impossible in our 2D6 system. Beyond that, he’s rude to other players, often interrupting them, getting aggressive, and demanding the spotlight. He created a clown character that doesn’t fit the serious tone of the game, making it hard for everyone to enjoy.
I’ve felt guilty about wanting to kick him out, especially considering he has autism, but it’s clear that my reluctance has led to other players leaving and ultimately the campaign falling apart. I’m now at a point where I need to take action, but I don’t know how to do it without feeling terrible about it.
3 Answers
Don’t feel bad at all. Players like him can sometimes latch onto their diagnosis to excuse their bad behavior, and that’s not fair to anyone else at the table. By opting to keep him, you risk losing other players who might not return. It’s tough, but a gain for the group might mean his exclusion. Handle it upfront, and just explain how his actions negatively affect the group.
Exactly! Clarifying things will help him understand why he needs to go. Sometimes the tough love is what’s necessary for a player to improve.
You’re in a tough spot, but you got to remember that autism does not excuse being rude or cheating. If someone’s behavior is ruining the fun for the rest of the players, they have to go, plain and simple. You’ve tried to help him, but if he can’t adapt, it’s his issue, not yours. Just be honest when you let him go, and make sure to hold the line for your remaining players’ sake.
100%! Autism isn’t a free pass for bad behavior. You have to look out for the group dynamics too.
Exactly! You shouldn’t have to apologize for wanting a fun game for everyone. If he isn’t fitting in, it’s better for everyone if he moves on.
You really shouldn’t feel bad about this. You’ve gone above and beyond trying to accommodate Ben, but he clearly isn’t putting in the effort to play along with the group. It’s all about balance, and if he’s making the game uncomfortable for everyone else, that’s not okay. Just think about your other players. They deserve to enjoy the game without dealing with his disruptive behavior.
Absolutely! Plus, don’t hesitate to be direct with Ben when you tell him he’s out. You can say it’s just not a good fit for him and the group going forward. It’s important he understands that direct feedback.
Right! Plus, you’ve tried everything to help him, and he simply isn’t interested in improving or playing nice. That’s on him, not you!
Agreed, you owe it to everyone to keep the game enjoyable. If he can’t adapt, you have to let him go.