If you are reading this, ✨ congratulations ✨ You have begun down the path to becoming a professional Game Master (GM) on StartPlaying!
Do I need experience to apply?
No prior professional experience is required, but we recommend you have at least 1 year of GMing experience.
That said, the application does ask about your GMing style, experience level, and how you'd handle common scenarios at the table. The more detail you can provide, the stronger your application will be.
How do I apply to become a Game Master?
Step 1: Create a Player Account
You need an existing Player account on StartPlaying before you can apply to become a GM.
Once you are signed in to your account:
Click on your Profile Picture in the upper right corner of the screen
Click Become a Game Master.
Step 2: Fill out the GM Application
All GM applications are manually approved by a member of the StartPlaying team.
The application covers your GM style, experience, how you'd handle common GMing scenarios, and your knowledge of the StartPlaying rules. You'll also be asked to agree to StartPlaying's Terms of Service and Code of Conduct as part of the process.
⚠️ Not following these rules after approval may result in being banned from the platform. Make sure you read and understand both before submitting.
Step 3: Submit your application
Once your application is complete, click Submit for Review at the top of the page.
What makes a strong GM application?
To create a strong application, make sure to:
Write detailed, well-thought-out responses for every section. Short answers are the most common reason applications are rejected or sent back
Use the About You and GM Style sections to highlight your expertise and unique approach to running games
Include a clear, engaging profile picture that shows off your personality
Share specifics about your GMing experience, like systems you've run, how long you've been playing, and what makes your table unique
Double-check your spelling, grammar, and that every section is fully completed before submitting
First impressions matter, so keep your tone professional and engaging
What happens after I submit my application?
After submitting, you'll receive a confirmation email. The StartPlaying team will review your application and reach out with a decision within 10-15 business days.
If your application is approved, you'll be able to set up your GM profile and start creating game listings.
In the meantime, we recommend:
Reading through the Game Master FAQs to get familiar with the platform
Signing up for a GM Success Webinar. These are free sessions that walk you through everything you need to know about StartPlaying