[AMF]

OK, I've been toying with an idea for a PBW game for a long time, I've got the backstory, I'm working on the map, and I'm almost ready to go.

The problem is, I want to play in it too.

So...what are the generally accepted best practices that govern the situation of a game host also playing in the game?

If all the game information was unknown to the host as well as the players, I see no potential for conflict of interest.

However, in cases where there is a custom made map, or a starting setup that the GM has modified such that he might know where the players are located at the start of the game, there is a potential for a conflict of interest.

In my current case, I have a unique and interesting map that I have made and playtesting to make sure it works, so I am at least marginally aware of some of its characteristics. Needless to say, I am extremely adamant against cheating (I think I can honestly say I never have - except for that game of Illuminati, but we were playing with "cheating rules on"...)or even having the perception of conflict of interest, so I am conflicted.

Are there any accepted rules of thumb to govern this situation?

Thanks,

Alarik