Why does an open-ended activity like D&D have rules? Rules give us a framework for our play. Rules are also a common language. They’re a way to shape what characters do and to determine whether things succeed. Rules help make D&D a game, rather than simply make-believe. #DnD
— Jeremy Crawford (@JeremyECrawford) February 8, 2018
Knowing the rules well can speed up play. Having rules fluency as a DM also makes it easier to improvise—to speedily come up with ways of resolving unusual situations on the fly. #DnD
— Jeremy Crawford (@JeremyECrawford) February 8, 2018
Understanding the rules—knowing what they do and don’t say—is a great foundation for when you want to codify a house rule (as opposed to a quick ruling). Warning: having a bunch of codified house rules risks putting the focus on rules, rather than on story. #DnD
— Jeremy Crawford (@JeremyECrawford) February 8, 2018
As DM, letting the rules play out in your game—seeing where the dice fall—can invite all sorts of exciting, funny, scary, or moving moments that you didn’t see coming. They let you play a game too. But if you need to improvise something to heighten your group’s fun, do it. #DnD
— Jeremy Crawford (@JeremyECrawford) February 8, 2018
Rules in D&D are meant to be a benign tool that we use together to build our shared fun. They should never be used as a weapon against each other. Let the DM settle disputes. At the game table, fun and friendship are the key. #DnD
— Jeremy Crawford (@JeremyECrawford) February 8, 2018