Judging with Phil

Disney Lorcana just released a new document called the CORE Document – give it a read, I’ll wait.

While the CORE document goes over mainly what it means to be a Lore Guide at entry level events, I wanted to go over what it means to be a Lore Guide at the various levels, especially at a DLC level. So, what is the DLC level?

Disney Lorcana Challenges (DLCs) are the highest form of competitive play, also known as “Premier” level. At this level, we want our players to play at their very best and try to make the least amount of mistakes as possible. But DLCs are also one of the few ways players across the world get to celebrate Disney Lorcana. At DLCs you will see players of all levels who are just there to have fun and/or compete. You will have players that are scared to call a judge because they know they are afraid of getting in trouble. You will have families there encouraging their kids to play for fun. You have players who are just there for the shiny promo cards. And of course, you have players there for the glory. All of this mixes together in a culmination of the Disney Lorcana Challenge experience.

The CORE document really highlights our approach in general for teaching and guiding players at an entry level and I strongly believe that this foundation should also be how we approach every level, but also following the guidance of the tournament rules and play correction guidelines. As a Lore Guide you are expected to know (or be able to quickly look up, see my article on the judge kit and how you should have the documents on your phone!) the rules of the game. But as a Lore Guide you shouldn’t just regurgitate that knowledge. Lore Guides are expected to help players and teach them what the error was. In some instances, the corrective action may really affect them and we need to be able to show them some sympathy and give them guidance to continue playing. In fact, a majority of newer players do not understand that a warning for a simple mistake is simply a warning.

Being a Lore Guide at a high level of play also means we need to be confident and firm at a high level of play. No one wants to be the Lore Guide that has to end someone’s run at an event but the integrity of the event must be upheld. Making the difficult call can be hard and can unnerve even the best Lore Guide. Remember that when you are at a large event, such as a DLC, you will have other guides that can help you. Seek advice on a call if needed! There will be over 100 years of shared judging experience in the room!

I challenge any lore guide (pun intended) to try and push themselves when they get into uncomfortable judge calls. Guides should make sure they are correct, of course, but also execute their judgements firmly and swiftly (and if needed with the help of others). Practicing performing these calls will help them become more comfortable as a guide and allow you to feel more confident as they traverse the floor.

Lastly, Lore Guides at DLCs share in a unique shared experience. Guides should share their judging stories with each other (where appropriate) and discuss interesting calls or stories to share and build the Lore Guide community. It is only by building each other up can we grow as Guides!