Beginner’s Guide: Working With Control
Whether you want to know how to do something or want to do something that might be outside the rules, the game runners or ‘Control Team’ are your best friend during a Megagame. Here’s how you can make the most out of your interactions with Control.
Rules Arbiter
How do I…? Where is the…? What is a…?
The Quellon game board during Den of Wolves
These are the most common questions Control will hear during the game. If you’ve looked at the rule book, asked other players and still can’t figure something you; the Control team will help set the record straight.
The best thing players can do is to be patient with Control if you’re asking a difficult role specific question. They will often work with other Control team members to ensure they tell you the correct information the first time.
What do I do now?
One of the worst feelings you can have as a new Megagamer is feeling lost, bored or that you don't have anything to do. In these rare cases, walk up to Control and tell them. I guarantee they'll find something for you to do.
Just remember, they can't read your mind. With all the commotion of a typical Megagame, there's just not enough time for them to keep up with everyone as the game is going on. It's up to you, the player, to seek out a Control member and tell them your situation.
Trust that they will come up with some kind of solution that will improve your overall experience.
Can I?
The Control team can and will answer your questions
Sometimes, as players, you’ll want to venture a little bit outside the rules. Megagame designers can't possibly account for all the things players will come up with. In these situations, Control is the decision maker and their word is gospel.
When you approach Control with a creative idea, be as thorough as you can when describing your action. They will be better able to adapt, roll with your idea and come up with proper guidelines if you present some of the following:
Your goal
Why you want to do it
How you think you can accomplish it
What you think you might need
After hearing your idea, the Control team will likely talk for a bit before coming back with a ruling.
Trust the Ruling
When the Control team returns with a ruling, whether it is for your grand scheme or over a rules dispute, remember they are doing everything they can to preserve the fun for all parties involved (that includes Control too, by the way). In the rare instance they come back to tell you no, just roll with it. They'll often tell you why they couldn't let you grand plan happen and that's when you go back to the drawing board to come up with a plan that will work. They might even present an alternative that falls more inline with the game.
Also, if Control comes back with a ruling that feels harsh, know that this means your idea was probably really powerful and setting tough parameters was the only way to keep it balanced in game. They'll likely give you an explanation as to the why, so make sure you listen. If you’re able to achieve that goal, the payoff can and will be huge.
Have faith that Control’s actions are done in the best interest of the game and the overall experience of your fellow players. At the end of a game, Control wants everyone to come back for the next one. They want you to have a positive experience so we can continue to grow our hobby.
Whether you’re looking for a rules clarification or the first step in your grand plans; work with your Control team to create your best possible Megagame experience.
