In many tabletop roleplaying games, high-stakes adventures and thrilling encounters often take center stage. However, the moments between the action (AKA Downtime) are, in my opinion, just as important for developing a compelling and immersive story.

Downtime offers players opportunities to flesh out their characters, maintain relationships, and shape the world around them, ultimately making the overall experience richer and more engaging.

Downtime refers to the in-game periods when characters are not actively adventuring, fighting, or tackling immediate, urgent threats. This can include time spent in a city between quests, resting after battle, or even extended breaks between campaigns. While some games incorporate structured downtime mechanics, others leave it open-ended, allowing players and gamemasters time to explore character-driven narratives in a more organic way.

Character Growth and Development

Downtime provides a natural space for characters to reflect on past events and evolve. Players can use these moments to explore their characters’ personal goals, backgrounds, fears, and ambitions. Did a character witness something that changed their outlook? Are they struggling with the consequences of a difficult decision? Encouraging players to dive into these elements can lead to powerful storytelling moments.

Pat's Tip: Offer players individual or small-group scenes during downtime to focus on their character arcs. A personal conversation with a mentor, an emotional reunion with family, or training to master a new skill can all add depth.

Worldbuilding Through Player Action

Downtime allows players to influence the game world beyond adventuring. They can establish businesses, forge alliances, conduct research, or even shape political landscapes.

Examples:

• A rogue sets up an information network to gather intelligence.
• A wizard opens a small academy to train apprentices.
• A warrior builds a sanctuary for war orphans.

These elements make the world feel dynamic and responsive to player actions, enhancing immersion.

Relationships and Roleplaying

Interpersonal relationships between characters often flourish during downtime. Friendships, rivalries, and romances can take center stage without the pressure of combat looming over them.

Pat's Tip: Introduce NPC-driven events such as festivals, feasts, or personal requests from townsfolk to encourage social interaction and allow the players to further develop their character's personality beyond adventuring.

Resource Management and Strategic Planning

For players who enjoy the tactical aspects of RPGs, downtime can be excellent opportunity for resource management. This could involve gathering materials for crafting, recruiting allies, or planning the next phase of their journey.

Ideas for Strategic Downtime:

• Crafting magical items or upgrading equipment.
• Training new abilities or refining combat techniques.
• Investing in real estate or starting a faction.

These activities not only add realism but also make characters feel like they are growing in meaningful ways.

Mysteries, Side Quests, and Personal Plots

Downtime doesn't have to be quiet—it can be filled with intrigue, challenges, and personal missions. Introduce side quests that tie into a character’s backstory or unresolved mysteries.

Pat's Tip: Use downtime to foreshadow future conflicts. A character might receive a cryptic letter, hear whispers of a rising threat, or uncover a secret related to their past.

Set Clear Expectations

Make sure players know that downtime is an intentional part of the game. Session 0 is a great moment to discuss about this by the way. Encourage them to think about how their characters spend their free time and communicate their ideas.

Use Structured Downtime Mechanics

Some TTRPGs, like Blades in the Dark and Dungeons & Dragons (via the Downtime Activities rules), offer built-in mechanics for downtime. If your game doesn’t, consider creating a system that rewards players for engaging with downtime activities.

Engage Players with Meaningful Choices

Offer downtime events that have lasting consequences. It can be anything from the rise of a rival guild, a new love interest, or a failed business venture, let players feel the impact of their actions.

Keep It Player-Driven

While you can introduce downtime opportunities, the best downtime moments often come from the players’ own interests. Roll with it and propose downtime activities that fits their character’s story.

Downtime is more than just a break from the action—it’s a powerful storytelling tool that can deepen character development, expand the game world, and create unique and highly memorable roleplaying experiences. By using downtime as a key component of your game, you’ll craft a richer, more immersive roleplaying experience that keeps players invested even when the swords are sheathed!

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How do you use downtime in your games?