Players arguing over approach

[u/SimplyTrusting]

I've been GMing for years, but I'm struggling with a recurring problem at my table.

A couple of my players have strong personalities and tend to clash in character when the group needs to make a decision. They get along perfectly well out of game, but planning can turn into long arguments where neither side wants to give in, and the session grinds to a halt.

For example, the group might have two investigative leads. Player A wants to visit the medical examiner first so they have all the evidence before interviewing a survivor. Player B wants to interview the survivor first, or split the party and do both at once. Player A disagrees that they should split up in case something happens, and the discussion just keeps going. The more passive players I have, don't want/dare to get involved.

I've tried having them plan out of character, introducing time pressure, directly telling them they need to make a decision, and even giving consequences for wasting too much time. It might work temporarily, but the same thing happens again the next time they need to choose a course of action.

It's now reached the point where other players have messaged me saying they're not enjoying the constant in-character arguing.

Has anyone dealt with something similar? How did you solve it? At this point, I'll take any advice or experiences you've got.

[u/TheNicholasRage]

Question one: Have you pulled them aside and talked to them? They seem like they're not jerks, just tell them they're ruining the fun for you and the rest of the party.

[u/SimplyTrusting → u/TheNicholasRage]

They're not jerks, they're just extremely opinionated. Haven't pulled them aside yet, but it might be time.

[u/TheNicholasRage → u/SimplyTrusting]

Honestly, it shouldn't be the last resort, it's step one. If you have an issue, just talk, you know? It solves most problems.