Safety Tools

X-Card

A simple way to edit content in real-time

What Is It?

The X-Card is a safety tool invented by John Stavropoulos. It's a simple card (or gesture) that any player can use to indicate that something in the game is making them uncomfortable and they'd like to skip past it or change direction.

No explanation is needed. The group simply edits the content—"fast forwards" past it, rewinds and takes a different approach, or fades to black. The game continues without requiring anyone to explain their boundaries.

The X-Card works because it separates the need to stop uncomfortable content from the need to explain why. Many people can recognize when something is bothering them before they can articulate why, and some boundaries are simply too personal to discuss with a group of acquaintances.

How It Works

  1. 1At the start of the session, the GM explains that anyone can "tap the X-Card" (or make an X gesture, or say "X") at any time.
  2. 2When someone uses the X-Card, the group immediately edits the content. No questions asked, no explanations required.
  3. 3The edit can be skipping ahead, rewinding and taking a different direction, or fading to black on a scene.
  4. 4The game continues. The X-Card user can share why if they want to, but they're never required to.

When to Use It

  • When content is making you uncomfortable, even if you're not sure why
  • When the game touches on something you'd rather not explore
  • When you need a break from intense content
  • On behalf of someone else who seems uncomfortable (with their consent)

At Mostly Magic

All GMs on Mostly Magic are encouraged to use the X-Card. When a GM lists this tool, it means they've committed to honoring X-Card use without question or judgment.

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