There is no specific number of players deciding who will participate because it depends heavily on the game system used, the ability of the narrator and the players themselves. But as an RPG is the interpretation of some papers and that usually requires players to be focused in the game, it is conceivable that a large number of players is not a recommended idea. I have participated in games involving up to 10 players in which I directed and it is impossible to avoid the end becoming a horrible mess in which the narrator speaks for 2-3 people while the rest seems quite oblivious or in their affairs, or worse , ignore anyone that is impossible.
there are moments in every game and by players is inevitable, but the issue with many players going to and the narrator gradually lost among comments, notes and hides behind the screen, turning what should be a leisure activity into a real torture.
Of course there are exceptions to the rule ... maybe a group of players is sufficiently focused, in line with each other and that this allows a game relaxed, relaxed, fun and without fluctuations, mired in an interesting story, but honestly it is not normal.
The number of players is important in itself, yes, but it is also important the gaming system we use. Likewise, a system that emphasizes the interpretive on dice rolls will be more likely that the number of players is less, as well as games in that the system is more complicated rules also reduce the number. Games like Vampire or anime, undesirable for large groups, they break the dynamics of the game.
Another option would be to emphasize the kind of players he has. It is something that the narrator knows and knows what effort is going to perform each of the players to prepare the game, care to be rendered and the trend of funny comments (not to be censored, but moderate). This effort, I might add, should be rewarded in the right measure of respect to the same player. Do not forget that the players are heroes of the story and each one deserves their own personal attention, if we increase the number of players this is complicated and not advisable.
In short, a good number would be one that would allow a proper and smooth course of history, in which everyone could participate and not have lapses interruption in order to maintain an adequate development of the game.
In my opinion, the appropriate number would be the minimum. The ideal would be 3 or 4 players, no matter the type of role play. The problem is that with so few players, if one fails you are missing. Every time that you can not go there is a void difficult to fill that no more players in games (where it is lacking is not a serious problem). In these cases it would be appropriate to delay the game and make an appointment to come good at all.
Three or four players, this number is right and if it rises to 6 or 7, the problem starts. So I said, few players and focused on the issue, because I have to admit that the best and most fun games I've had have been with 2 players, both as to the other side of the screen.
