I've gotten pretty good a day game or online game, where the target is isolated from the start. However, I can't work a group at bars, clubs, or parties.

Either one of two things happens:

1. I start talking to a girl individually, begin working my magic, but then her friends come & bail her out (or amog'd).

2. I approach a group & talk to everyone. We get to some subject matter that keeps the conversation going, & I carry it with those who want to contribute (usually other guys). The girl I want does not become attracted to me.

I can't seem to engage a group of people AND add any game element at the same time. It's like two completely seperate modes for me. Is this common? or fixable?

If your thread is only openning guys, then cut it and start a new one.
"Get this! Last week, my friend and I were sitting in this very booth, I was sitting where you were sitting [point at one of the girls]..."

Remember to start asking questions too. Run the group and incorporate them into your frame and your circle.

While you're talking or engaging the group give your drink to a target or something and ask if they could hold it for "just a second", then after you talk for a bit jokingly accuse her of trying to steal it, drink it, or spit in it.

"Ya know while I'm here, I might as well ask you girls something. Now what's your opinion on....." Now after they finish their thoughts, turn to the rest of the group and get their opinions too. Try to agree more with the obstacles then with the target. Maybe even joke with the target "You just copied his/her answer! If we were in school you would be sent to the Principal." If she says "I said it first, he/she copied me!" reply "That's not how this teacher saw it. Keep up the attitude and I'll assign you detention too!" And immidiatly jump into a new thread or travel further down your thread you just wove.

Good luck
JONAS

_________________
Beware the wrath of a patient man.