What Skills Did You Learn from Your Time in Prison?
During my time in prison, I focused on self-improvement and developed several key skills that have had a lasting impact on my life. Among the most valuable lessons I took away were improvements in my basic logical reasoning, reading comprehension, writing capabilities, and expertise in both gamemastering and game design.
Logical Reasoning
Prison gave me ample time to hone my logical reasoning. Whether through playing complex games like chess or diving into tabletop roleplaying games (RPGs), I was constantly exercising my brain to think critically and strategically. These activities forced me to plan ahead, consider multiple outcomes, and make informed decisions based on the available information.
Gamemastering also played a crucial role in sharpening my logical thinking. As a gamemaster (GM), I had to anticipate player actions, construct puzzles, and ensure that the game's narrative flowed smoothly. This required a deep understanding of cause and effect as well as the ability to create scenarios that made sense within the game's world. It became second nature to predict how a decision could ripple through a campaign, helping me build stronger logical frameworks both in and outside of the game.
Reading Comprehension
Being in prison meant I had plenty of time to read, and I made the most of it. I read dozens of different game systems, campaign settings, and books on game design. Some of these texts were dense and complex, requiring focused effort to truly understand the rules and mechanics behind them. This constant reading significantly improved my reading comprehension.
RPG manuals are often filled with jargon, intricate rule sets, and world-building details that require a high level of attention to grasp fully. Reading them not only taught me the mechanics of various games but also gave me a broader understanding of how different game systems function. It became easier to dissect new materials, pick up on underlying patterns, and apply that knowledge to my own creative endeavors.
Writing Capabilities
Writing became one of my most valuable outlets during incarceration. I started by writing game scenarios and campaign settings for the tabletop games I played with others but over time, it evolved into something much more. I began designing my own content, experimenting with different game ideas, and developing stories and rules from scratch. This practice improved my ability to express ideas clearly and concisely, a skill that is essential in both game design and everyday communication.
The need to explain game mechanics and scenarios to others forced me to become a better communicator. I had to ensure that my writing was not only accurate but also engaging and easy to follow. Whether drafting game rules or designing a new narrative arc, the experience helped me refine my writing style and improve my ability to convey complex ideas simply.
Gamemastering and Game Design
Finally, prison was where I truly mastered the art of gamemastering and game design. Through years of running games, I learned how to create compelling narratives, manage group dynamics, and keep players engaged. I experimented with different game mechanics and storytelling techniques, refining my craft through hands-on practice. I also took inspiration from the various game systems I studied, incorporating their best elements into my own designs.
Being a GM taught me how to think on my feet, adapt to unforeseen circumstances, and maintain control of a group while allowing creativity to flourish. These skills transferred seamlessly into game design where I learned to balance mechanics, create meaningful choices for players, and craft experiences that felt immersive and satisfying.
In short, my time in prison wasn’t wasted. I came away with sharpened logical reasoning, enhanced reading and writing skills, and a deep mastery of both gamemastering and game design—skills that have continued to shape my life and work.