Calibration

Calibration is how players agree, and keep adjusting, how intense a scene or relationship should be, through a quick talk before play or quiet signals during it.

Before a game, calibration often means a short out-of-character chat with the players you will share scenes with: how dark you are happy to go, how physical, and what you would rather avoid. During play, many games also use agreed signals or words that let you ask for a scene to ease off or build up without stopping it. The signals differ from game to game, so learn the ones your event teaches at its workshop or safety brief. If you are ever unsure whether someone is comfortable, stepping out for a quick check-in is always fine.