The Encyclopedia of Interactive Performance

As characters pursue objectives, conflict arises. For the story to progress, someone needs to win. That winner often needs to be the spect. Spects don’t get much satisfaction if it looks like you threw the fight. You need to look like you’re fighting for your objective while creating opportunities for the spect to win. That’s called “playing for the loss.”

Don’t play for the loss right away. Explore different tactics. Raise the stakes. Match your intensity to the spect’s commitment. When the conflict is near its peak, play for the loss.

Here are two common ways to play for the loss.

Show the loophole – While defending your position, introduce a vulnerability that the spect can exploit. If spects are paying attention, they can seize the opportunity and achieve their goal.

Kari (spect) is arguing that she should have been promoted instead of Roy. Her boss disagrees, saying that Roy deserved it more. He adds, “Besides, promotions always go to the person with the most seniority.” Kari delivers her winning blow. “Then that promotion belongs to me. I was the one who hired Roy.”

The inter-actor knew that Kari had been there longer. Introducing the topic of seniority was his way to play for the loss so that Kari could win.

Achilles’ heel – You can also let spects win by endowing something that they say or do as your character’s vulnerability. Let it matter enough to change your perspective.

Eleanor (spect) wants to meet with Senator Ruiz. His assistant, Miss Carlyle, says the senator is too busy, but perhaps next week. Eleanor is disheartened. “Next week will be too late.” Miss Carlyle holds firm, “I’m sorry I can’t help you.” As Eleanor starts to leave, Miss Carlyle inquires, “What did you want to meet about?” “Funding for a women’s shelter.” “Battered women?” “Yes.” Miss Carlyle checks the calendar again. “Tell you what, the senator has five minutes before lunch. I’m going to squeeze you in. But just five minutes, OK?”

When your character loses, attach a condition to the spect’s win. It makes the journey more interesting by adding a “Yes, but…” Eleanor gets to meet with the senator, but only for five minutes. Everything comes at a price.

When you need a way for spects to win, play for the loss.