How To Successfully Torment Others Without Spoiling the Game They're Playing

Hello, Sweetie...


A couple of months ago, Player 2 and I decided it would be a good idea to trade RPGs. We both chose a game that we truly loved and exchanged, with each of us playing the other's favorite. Now, those of you who have been in a similar situation know the general feeling of giddiness that accompanies watching a fantastic storyline that you know very well  unravel for someone else for the first time. This probably stems from a vicarious desire to discover the game anew and to recapture that initial wonder you held for that game, fulfilled through the fresh eyes of a friend, but I digress. The downside to these situations is the difficulty most find in not spoiling the game unintentionally. Yes, most people are able to avoid spewing spoilers uncontrollably during every loading screen but what I'm talking about is more along the lines of body language and expression.  You'd be surprised what a tiny cringe or a set jaw during a character introduction can reveal about the storyline. Therefore, in order to avoid these missteps, I have turned to fine art of teaser vs. spoiler into something of a game. With some well placed application of just these two techniques, you  can amp up the anticipation factor while simultaneously drawing the attention away from anything that could seriously ruin the plotline. Not to mention, it's tons of fun!

Method 1: The Cryptic Smile

This method is a particular favorite of mine, simply because it has so many variations. There inevitably comes a time when the person playing the game will make a comment or a prediction about the storyline. Luckily, the Cryptic Smile is versatile enough that it can be used whether they're right or wrong while keeping them completely in the dark. It can range from a slight upturn of one corner of the mouth (this, combined with a vague shrug, is a favorite of Player 2) to a full on smirk. Personally, I find the full grin too revealing (and kind of creepy to be honest). Instead, I prefer a combination of faintly amused and something just this side of smug. While it could mean that they hit the nail right on the head and I'm smiling at their perceptiveness, it could also be interpreted as, "Ha, that's cute. Too bad it's completely off target." It's a surefire way too keep them guessing.

Method 2: The Sigh

Yep, that's right, even breathing correctly can carry loads of meaning. This method, especially when combined with a small hum, is highly ambiguous and can lead to all sorts of shenanigans.  If this is done when a character essential to the storyline is introduced, this can clue the player in to the significance of that person. Usually, this is interpreted as the character either cringing misfortune on others or having misfortune befall them later on in the game, but it can also be a sign of exasperation, amusement, or even admiration (Oh, Jade... *sigh*) by them. If you really want to frustrate your friends, though, I suggest trying this when something completely insignificant happens. Heck, try it on a loading screen! If this is done correctly, the player will become extremely confused and that's always fun to watch.

So, do you guys have a favorite method of torture? Perhaps you prefer a poker face, instead? Let me know!