Unstoppable Strategies for Maintaining Thriving Gaming Groups Like Dimension 20’s Brennan and Ally

The Secret to Keeping Your Gaming Group Together: A Dimension 20 Conversation

As the cast of Dimension 20’s junior year of high school, Ally Beardsley, Brennan Lee Mulligan, and the Intrepid Heroes have seen their fair share of ups and downs. But what has their experience taught them about keeping a gaming group together, especially when schedules get hairy?

Polygon: What’s your advice on how to keep a gaming group together, professional or otherwise? You guys have busy careers, families, and other commitments. And let’s not forget the "keeping the band together" aspect, the basic, interpersonal friend stuff. Working with friends isn’t always easy. How do you navigate that?

Ally Beardsley: I think it’s crucial to have a positive attitude. You need a little bit of grammatical John Keating from Dead Poets Society – "You’re more than enough, you’re precious." When we all meet up, we’re not just hanging out to complain or be negative. We’re grateful for each other’s company, and that vibe is infectious. We’ve created a space where people feel valued and seen, and that’s what keeps them coming back.

Brennan Lee Mulligan: It’s all about structure, and people need a little bit of ritual. A group can be a lifesaver, but it’s not always easy. We’ve been through ups and downs, conflicts, and some pretty intense conversations, but we’ve learned to prioritize communication and understand each other’s boundaries. When everyone’s on the same page, you can overcome any obstacle.

Ally Beardsley: And don’t get me wrong, I love a good winging it session, but ultimately, having a plan and flexible adaptability is essential. Check-ins, morphing the hangout into something that works for everyone – it’s crucial. We’ve had many a spontaneous game night turned into a priority check-in session. It’s about accommodating, not sacrificing, people’s boundaries and energy.

Brennan Lee Mulligan: Flexibility is key, but so is resilience. When someone flakes, don’t be too hard on them; just roll with it. One weekend, I was hosting a game, and someone couldn’t make it at the last minute. We pivoted and created a new, related one-shot adventure, using characters we’d built for that world. It kept everyone engaged and the game going.

Ally Beardsley: It’s not about being too cool for school, thinking, "I’ll just text you, we’ll hang out another time." No, people need ritual. They need to feel seen, heard, and part of something bigger than themselves. That’s what games provide – a sense of belonging and connection. Don’t underestimate the power of snacks, cuddles, and a good game night!

Brennan Lee Mulligan: Ultimately, it comes down to respect. Respect for the people involved, their time, and their boundaries. If someone can’t make it, you respect that, and find a way to accommodate them. Don’t be rigid; don’t dictate how everyone needs to show up. Make it work, even when it gets tough.

As the Dimension 20 cast can attest, keeping a gaming group together requires a delicate balancing act of communication, adaptability, and, above all, respect. By recognizing the importance of ritual, prioritizing boundaries, and having a flexible, resilient approach, even the most disparate group can become a cohesive, enjoyable, and meaningful experience for everyone involved.