I've used minis that match the descriptions of the NPCs. For example, if the PCs walk into a tavern with some notable NPCs, I sketch out the tavern floorplan, then, as I'm describing the NPC, I put the mini out where the NPC is at.

Seanchai

Quote from: Aos;265964I think it's best to show up to the first session dressed only in  a viking hat and a diaper made of clear plastic wrap.

You're so nice. I've always heard to just use the hat.

Seanchai

Quote from: Serious Paul;265970We tend to provide characters for the first game, prefering new players not get bogged down in the mechanics. Other than that, not much is different from our regular games.

This is quite helpful.  They don't have make choices in creation until they understand the ramifications better.  Maybe have 2-3 sheets and give them a simple choice: machine gun or martials arts, or tough warrior or ninja without getting into mechanical advantages.
 
Don't forget to tell them that's it's customary to tip the gm after a session.

It's always depended upon the player.  The last guy to join our group (who was new to roleplaying) sat down and was ready to dive in feet first.  We didn't change anything, other than answering the odd question here and there.

Most players I just roll their character with them, seperate from the rest of the group the first time, and do some sample dice rolls as we go along.

When I joined a SilCore group the GM had me and another new player basically have a session with the GM. We created are characters and then he basically had us race through some circuits using the space movement rules to get used to them. If you hit an object you lost a turn (basically moving in whatever direction and at whatever velocity). Added in was combat so that you had two peeps basically racing through an obstacle course blasting at each other trying to finish first.

It was fun and by the end you had a firm grasp of the space movement rules.

I post "Beginner's Welcome" on most of my game blurbs for conventions so I get more noobs than other GMs.  My GM style is "fun first, rules last" and the convention format of a four hour start to finish event with pregen characters works very well for noobs.  

I tell the noobs to not worry about any game mechanics, just focus on character choices.  Pick the character that sounds like fun to play and I give them a brief run down on what X, Y and Z mean for the game system.   When they take an action, I tell them what to roll and how the action works and if the action is truly a poor choice based on their lack of game experience, I will give them some minor advice.

I also tell the other players to shut the fuck up and let the noob make their own decisions and fumble their way without know-it-all back seat drivers.  I upgraded my Viking Hat with the Predator shoulder laser attachment.

However, I do not pull punches with noobs.   I want them to see a game in its blood and glory and feel the excitement of a victory without coddling.

I really invest some advance time with someone who is new to the RPG Gaming. Explaining the rules and especially what kind of style the others usually play. After Character Creation the new kid in town will have the chance to play some solo adventures, just to let him get the feel of it. During those solos he can do what he likes, but not before explaining to him/her that any action will be followed by a reaction. Be it foe better or worse. This will allow the new Gamer to get a feel of the Game as well as a for his character.

During the first couple of gaming session with the regular group I tend to be lenient and usually take a "time out", explaining what the reaction/result of his action will be, why and making sure he thought about the consequences. after the second or third regular session they usually get the hang of it.

Welcome to the board, Corellon.