Topic: To boxed text or not to boxed text

[Chris Seal]

Hi all,

I am considering once again throwing my hat in the ring and writing another adventure. One thing that I've been wrestling with is the issue of boxed text.

So where does everyone stand? Would you as GMs prefer to have boxed text to read verbatim or would you prefer to have enough info to make up your own description/dialogue? Alternatively, is there a middle ground?

Thanks for your help.

Cheers
Chris

[yammahoper]

I never use the box text, yet I always enjoy reading it.

[markc]

 I prefer box text as it delineates what is to be related to the players, even if I do not read it word for word.
MDC

[intothatdarkness]

Boxed text is useful, IMO, both for delineating what players should be told (per markc's comment) and it's also helpful for conveying a specific tone or intent with passages (especially key NPC speeches or comments).

[bpowell]

As someone who has written many modules that have been played at cons, I must say I like boxed text.  i tell then to "read or paraphrase" it.  I have sat in and watch a different DM run my module and love how is changed the words.

[markc]

As someone who has written many modules that have been played at cons, I must say I like boxed text.  i tell then to "read or paraphrase" it.  I have sat in and watch a different DM run my module and love how is changed the words.

 Another thing that I may do in the future is have a player read the boxed text. IE print out the stuff I want them to know in a book or one per page and have them just read them to the other players. That would give the GM a break and allow the talkative player time to talk.
MDC

[RandalThor]

I like boxed text, for many of the same reasons already mentioned.

[ironmaul]

Boxed text is good. Better to have it than, not have it and need it.

[arakish]

I like the boxed text for the same reasons as everyone else has commented.  Sometimes, I read it verbatim.  Sometimes, I paraphrase it.  But, usually, as markc said, I will print the boxed text for one of the players to read aloud.  Additionally, the printout will also get passed around for each to read.

rmfr

[Chris Seal]

Hi All,

Thats pretty conclusive . Thank you all for your feedback, its much appreciated.

Cheers
Chris