Metagaming
Definition
Using out-of-character knowledge that your character wouldn't have. Often discouraged because it breaks immersion and can feel unfair.
Example
“You read the Monster Manual and know trolls are weak to fire. But your character has never seen a troll. Shouting 'Use fire!' is metagaming.”
Common Mistakes
- Being too strict about metagaming (some is inevitable and harmless)
- Not distinguishing between harmful and benign metagaming
- Using metagame knowledge for 'good reasons' without realizing it