Ten keys to being a Scenario General
by Ian "Lo" Ebersole on Nov 13, 2008
In a recent RECON blog, I recounted a bit of my tale as a first-time general at the Air Force Academy Scenario game. Out of that experience, and my observation of some of the best paintball generals in the world, I was able to pick out some of the keys to being a great scenario general. As you’ll find, some will be specifically oriented toward scenarios, while others will apply to any sort of command, from a small squad, to a two hundred man unit at Oklahoma D-Day. Even if you don’t ever take charge, this list will help you find ways to work best with your commander. So, without adieu, the top ten keys to being a successful scenario general:
Recruit:
Recruiting is the most important key for any scenario general. Many players don’t realize this, but the great majority of scenarios are won or lost long before a player steps on the field (well, that’s not entirely true.. but it’s close). The best generals begin recruiting as soon as they take the role, and continue up until the starting horn. Top recruiting targets often include large, ground-pounding teams, talented specialists (such as demolitions players or medics), or the best spies and saboteurs. However, as a general rule, you want to recruit anyone you possibly can. As a side note for this, many generals only use Internet forums to recruit. However, if you know players or have played with them before, a phone call or a visit at another game can be more effective.
Lead, don’t Order:
In a line attributed to many famous generals (Patton comes to mind) “You can’t push a rope”. Oftentimes generals can’t be on the front lines. But that doesn’t mean you can’t effectively lead by example. In smaller games, put down cover fire for your runners or lead a charge or two. In bigger games you’ll have to be more cautious, but whenever possible, get up in the fight. Whatever you do, don’t pull out your chair at the command post and rest on your laurels. Find a way to be involved, and your players will respect that by playing at their hardest.
Keep good communication with your mission runners:
In scenario games, as much as having live players and territory is nice, it doesn’t directly earn you points. Getting missions and a plan to your players is vital. Generals use all sorts of different systems for this, often including radios or runners. The system you’ll choose will depend widely on your given circumstances and the teams you are working with. But you must by all means have some system in place, preferably with a backup. Too many times I’ve known players to walk right by a prop, simply because they didn’t know to be looking for it. Communication keeps everyone aware of the plan and opportunities availiable.
Be ready for curveballs:
Scenario Producers love throwing curveballs into the mix, especially if your team is in the lead. There isn’t much you can do to truly prepare for this, but be flexible in your game plan and have a way to get a hold of your key players quickly if something changes. Always expect the unexpected! This also applies to props. Be careful which props you bring into your base, many a general has unwittingly committed suicide by accepting a package from a player or character, only to have it be some sort of virus or bomb.
Get solo and new players involved:
As much as teams are important to winning scenarios, many if not most of your forces will be walk-on or solo players. Keep them in mind for your planning. If you’ve got a role or mission that needs to be played, pick a solo player, and then send a team to protect them. The player will likely enjoy being made a bigger part of the game, you’ve effectively gained a player, and the mission itself is more likely to succeed. Don’t give in to the temptation to just send your solo players to fight on the front lines. They paid extra to play in a scenario game, so if they at all want to get deeper into the story, get them involved!
Always come prepared!:
There are bare minimums that any scenario general should have. Besides playing gear, bring a radio (and spare batteries!), a notebook and a couple of pens. But beyond that, there are always ways to spice up the action. Wanted posters for the opposing general are a nice touch. A couple of spare gizmos from around the house can make for a nice suitcase nuke or a few vials of biochemical weapons, whatever fits the scenario. Some producers will use these as distractions, some may even give them a useful ability. You never know what might come in handy!
Stand out
If you can manage it, costuming for the role can add a touch of professionalism to any event (and draws photographers!). Costuming can be a simple as an old suitcoat and a briefcase, or an old beret. Even if you don’t go all out, make sure to wear something that distinguishes you. You don’t need your players spending time away from the fight trying to find the general to give you a prop!
Know the storyline
If the scenario is based on a movie, watch or re-watch that movie, and try to really look at the plot. If it’s based on a book, read the book. Independently created scenarios can be tougher, but producers often use a fairly simple plot. Whichever way you research it (if you can call watching “Black Hawk Down” research), you’ll be a step ahead of the game when the producer tells you to go to the downed chopper, and you clue your players in to the fact they’ll be looking for a pilot or a black box. Nobody said being a page ahead on the script wasn’t allowed.
Know your opponent
This is divided into two parts, knowing the opposing general, and knowing the field. You’ll fight both. If possible, play the field, or play with the opposing general leading up to the game. If you haven’t caught on to the trend, as a General, any information you can gather, especially firsthand, is good information.
Make it fun.
Most of all remember that while you are trying to win as a general, your average player, and you, are there to have a good time, and go home with some great memories from the day. By accepting the responsibility of a general, you’ve also accepted a small role in how the day goes. Use that well, make sure everyone has a good time, and every player there can go home a winner.