Gamer Forge Listener Email: What do I do?

Name: The person who will remain namel
Email: nameless
Comments: Hey guys I am part of a gaming group that is driving me batty! We start at 5:00pm on Thursdays and honestly don't get started still 6:00pm for who knows why? Then the GM normally gets into an arguement that sidtracks the game and out of the 6 hours we are there we maybe get 1 or 2 hours of actual game play due to smoke breaks, bathroom breaks, dinner, and the never ending arguements.

Help me! I am going insane and we have been a gaming group since Junior High and I would really hate to leave and find a new group. But honestly I can't stand the fighting that goes on. I wish they would just leave that at home!! But unfortunetly it bleeds into the game and gaming experience.

I need your advise.
Thank you
The nameless one.

Gamer Forge Response:
In regards to reaching the boiling point and getting ready to leave your gaming group, first try to lead by example. When others are drawing tangents and fan-boy arguing, be polite and remind them of the real reason they're attending the game session.

"Excuse me, gang. We're getting off topic. Can we please get back to the game?"

or

"Guys/Gals, please, we can discuss this after the game. Can we continue the story?"

Yeah, it may seem daunting to work up the nerve to leave your gaming group. But remember: It is your time. Get the most of it. Gaming is a pastime, by its very nature. You have every reason and right to leave a group if you aren't having fun. Yes, they are (ideally) your friends. There's no reason why you shouldn't be friends afterwards. A little politeness goes a long way. They deserve it just as much as you do. You're adults and young adults. Act like it. In a nutshell, it is your choice to leave or stay. Don't feel pressured one way or another. Make the choice and stick by it.