GMing TFT for children

[flyingwombat]

A friend of mine regularly runs games for children at a local convention. He has balked at using TFT because he thinks it’s too complicated for children 10 and under. He thought using a hex grid would be tough for kids.
Currently, he uses a version of Mage Knight —- with a hex grid!

Any suggestions for a) teaching children TFT, and b) my friend to run TFT.?

[ParadoxGames]

I think 10 is the perfect age to begin playing TFT.

[DarkPumpkin]

I don't think the rules are too difficult for kids, if carefully explained. The physical presentation may be more of an issue, with kids expecting more color these days. Let's face it the vibe of the game is old-fashioned with the black and white and the gothic font. Using the color playmats and minis should help to take that kind of hesitation out of the equation.

[Shostak]

I have GMed TFT for kids aged 9+ at my library with no problem. Character creation is pretty fast, especially compared to D&D. Using cardboard heroes or minis instead of counters usually makes it easier for them to understand facing.

[DeadParrot]

To keep things simple, start with Melee only. As a bonus, Melee is free in pdf format from Warehouse23 so each kid could have their own copy to reference during play. Add in Wizard after they are comfortable with Melee. And later move up to the full Fantasy Trip package.

[Shostak]

Originally Posted by DeadParrot

To keep things simple, start with Melee only. As a bonus, Melee is free in pdf format from Warehouse23 so each kid could have their own copy to reference during play. Add in Wizard after they are comfortable with Melee. And later move up to the full Fantasy Trip package.

That's certainly a sound approach if kids are really interested in hacking through combats. But I suggest adventures that have more problem solving and cooperation in the use of talents so that their experience at the table feels more like they were starring in their own adventure movie than in their own MMA fight.

[Draygon]

Great post! I agree with Dead Parrot, Melee is the way to go. I learned it from an older kid that lived in the apartments across the street. He just simply broke out the yellow map, told me to pick out a counter, and made a quick character for me. Then he guided me through an arena combat scenario. I fell in love right then and there! I went in to buy my own Melee, and other plastic bagged microgames from Metagaming. Shortly after, I had in turn taught my siblings to play this way. Then years later on , my kids. It's easy to learn and fun. Best game ever.

[Bill_in_IN]

The bumping of this thread gave me a great idea for tomorrow when my sister will visit with her 8 year old grandson. If he gets bored with the few things that we have to keep him occupied, I may just pull out the Melee board.