GM Rolls - Open or Screened?

[HangarFlying]

I use a screen. Usually it's so I can have the handy skill stuff available without having to dig through the book (even though I often times forget about what's on the screen and look in the book anyways). It also lets me hide minis.

I do a mix of open and hidden rolls. Most big fights, or those big rolls that might spell doom for the player, I roll in the open. For almost everything else that requires a roll, as well as mook fights, I'll roll behind the screen.

EDIT: Also, I made a sticky note that lists what knowledge rolls are required for which creature type and stuck it over the treasure portion of the screen.

[terry_t_uk]

I always roll openly but since I got this baby, I'm rolling behind a screen

[TOZ]

Hey, if you got it flaunt it!

[Finlanderboy]

I roll in the open as well. I think it is more fun for everyone to watcht he dice roll in anticpation.

I will also highlight stat blocks for monsters when PCs have slight doubt.

I notice in my area I am a much more difficult DM then most and I want them to trust me when I am difficult.

[Kollanti]

I use a screen for several reasons:

1) I do not believe players should be able to metagame enemies' capabilities by looking at their dice rolls.

2) Helps reduce the numbers aspect of the game and make it more of a narrative or story. Adds more mystery.

3) The screen is very useful to clip on printout aids or notes, which speeds play.

If you are unable to trust the DM with closed die rolls, do not play with him/her. I generally prefer hidden DM rolls while playing too.

[zarconww]

Thanks for this tread. I am in total agreement of not only rolling
in the open but with just rolling dice. I hate the Dice rolling apps for
computers and pads. They roll high to much of the time and it is not in
the open. Rolling for some checks is a must when the players wont know
how much they know or perceive. But I have had a GM have all the players
roll dice in the open and he rolled on a Dice App.

[lastblacknight]

Dice rolling apps are not accurate... - I have enough dice to share.

[David_Bross]

I always roll in open with 2 exceptions.

1. Players taunting my rolls
2. Opposed checks where it increases dramatic tension for PCs to be given a description not a number.