If your game hasn't reached its minimum player count, it will remain in Pending status and no sessions can be scheduled.
If your game is Active and a scheduled session doesn't have enough players attending, you have a few options for how to handle it.
Will players be charged if the minimum player count isn't met?
It depends on the game's status:
Pending games: Players will not be charged. A Pending game has not started and has no scheduled sessions, so no charges are processed.
Active games: Players in scheduled sessions will be charged even if fewer players than the minimum attend. Once a game is Active and a session is scheduled, charges go through at the 1-hour mark regardless of attendance.
What should I do if a scheduled session doesn't have enough players?
You have two options:
Cancel the session and refund the players who were signed up. See How do I Reschedule or Cancel a Session? for steps.
Run the session anyway with the players who are attending! For example, running a one-shot or adjusting the story for a smaller group.
Whatever you decide, make sure to communicate with your players promptly so they know what to expect.
How can I tell if my game is Active or Pending?
As a GM, check your Listings page:
Pending (shown in yellow) means the game is still recruiting and no sessions can be scheduled
Active (shown in green) means the game has met its minimum player count and sessions can be scheduled
As a player, check your My Games page:
Needed to Start (shown in blue) means the game is Pending and you will not be charged until the GM starts the adventure
Seats Left (shown in green) means the game is Active and sessions are being scheduled
Full (shown in red) means the game is Active and has no seats remaining
What if my game has been Pending for a long time?
If your game isn't gaining traction, consider:
Updating your listing: refresh the title, description, or artwork to make it more appealing
Enabling Instant Book: games with Instant Book on have a 30% higher conversion rate
Promoting your game: share your game on social media
Removing outdated listings: GMs are capped at 20 Pending listings at a time, so clearing old ones creates space for new opportunities
See Best Practices for Game Masters for more tips on attracting players.