StartPlaying logo
The Vermillion Isles: A Nautical/Pirate Campaign & Setting.

The Vermillion Isles: A Nautical/Pirate Campaign & Setting.

Dungeons & Dragons 5e, Homebrew Game | Campaign

About the adventure

Welcome to the Vermillion Isles Behold, the land of the Vermillion Isles, a lone continent swallowed by the depths of the infinite sea. A single beacon of hope for those who survived the Great Drowning and the devastation that soon followed. A continent where its early denizens forged a new world and a civilization of peace and prosperity away from the destructive hands and egos of the deities that once ruled. However, this peace and prosperity would crumble under the weight of the corruption and greed still left over from the cataclysm. A millennia after the Triton Civil War and its unifying empress that would forge the Vir'Akari Empire. Centuries after the second banishment of Dagon and his Rejected Children during the War of the Trench that would leave the Triton race nearly extinct. After the destructive War of the Twins left a scare on what would become the Marsonian Deserts. Decades after the Pherosian War and the inevitable Cold War that followed ushered in a time of peace and prosperity among the denizens of the Isles. Peace hangs in the balance once more as two mighty superpowers eye each other with suspicion and malice. The drums of war beat ever louder, their armies muster, and their general's plot. Our story begins not in the labyrinthine halls of the University of Tritonia's Grand Library or the Deadly inhospitable jungles of the northern Masifi Dominion, nor does it begin in the scum-filled streets of Capcya, the capital of the pirate nation known as the Ratline Cadence. No, this tale begins on the busy docks of Port Pherali with a humble letter pleading to strangers for discretion and aid. This new era of Renaissance teeters on the edge of a cutlass as a foreboding prophecy threatens to spread its evil influence over the Isles. Will you defend the fragile peace that holds the Isles together, or will you join the conquerors' ranks and build your kingdom from the ashes of the old? The realm's fate lies in your hands. World Documents Trailer for the Vermillion Isles https://drive.google.com/file/d/1RnW7spttQROJCfB1EGD9uJ7r_FuKX_8H/view?usp=sharing Tourist guide to the Isles PDF https://drive.google.com/file/d/1iSOsN3Bh7aHyG9kiRFY4-smm2_eWjj0-/view?usp=sharing Session 0 and Character Backstory One-on-One:: Free

Recruiting notes

After defeating the Cult of Oothoon in Port Artiria and acquiring a ship, the party sailed to Capcya to meet Lore Keeper Amberfall. Amberfall, a Mystic linked to the Crimson Corsairs, was investigating an Illithid colony threatening the city. The party discovered that Kalib, a local warehouse owner, had transformed into an Illithid and confronted him, uncovering connections to Ezra Hardy and Vivian the Vile. While Vivian escaped, the party destroyed the chamber meant for the Elder Brain. Meanwhile, Captain Hamilton hosted a fundraiser, and the party used the event to gather information for their ally, Admiral Reef. Tensions escalated when Ezra Hardy interrupted a parley, demanding the Crooked Spin, an artifact tied to the prophecy of the Long Dark. After a fierce battle against Ezra’s Mindflayer minions, the party successfully defended the artifact. Amberfall has now revealed the location of the next artifact: the Lute of Tellara, which is protected by a Guardian of Wisdom. If the party passes the Guardian’s test, they will gain the lute and the locations of the remaining artifacts needed to prevent the prophecy of the Long Dark. Will you join the party on their quest to uncover the truth behind the prophecy and stop the forces of Ezra Hardy and Vivian the Vile? Beginners welcome! Looking for 2 more player! Current party level: 9 Party Make-up: Fighter, Bard, Fighter, Cleric Campaign Setting: The Vermillion Isles (Custom Campaign and Setting) Adventure style: High Seas Exploration, Mystery, and Intrigue Campaign LVL: 2-15 plus Party Size: 4-6 players VTT: Roll20

5.0

(20)

1 year on StartPlaying

258 games hosted

Highly rated for: Creativity, World Builder, Visual Aid

Average response time: 6 hours

Response rate: 100%

Game Master Reviews (20)

Proficiencies

Players say this GM is great at:

Creativity

World Builder

Visual Aid

Jah avatar

Jah

Played 27 sessions

Johnny was my first proper foray into the world of D&D and I feel blessed to have been in the presence of a.....Master is not enough to describe the man but for now it will have to do. The Vermilion Isles feels like stepping into a Fantasy Novel one might have found in their School Library. A swashbuckling escapade that feels as though it moves and behaves separate from how you interact with it. All that feels natural with an under current of dedication, blood, sweat, and hopefully not too many tears. Every inch of the world feels like it could swallow you whole if you linger in awe for too long. Johnny goes to great lengths to ensure that you have as much understanding as you need to immerse yourself. He trusts you with full player autonomy and doesn't mind shifting the story for the sake of narrative or even humor. If you are willing to be open and honest with your characters desires and wants, he'll give you the tools to flesh them out. Because to him, your story matters. The groups story matters. I played with my group for almost a Yr and the "Unbreakable Six (7)" will always have a special place in my heart. Their trials and tribulations embedding themselves somewhere in me. If you have the chance, take some Dramamine and step onto the Gangplank that is the Vermilion Isles. You will not regret it.

AS Dotts avatar

AS Dotts

Played 26 sessions

100% best DM I've ever had. Very excepting to time changes and character changes. He's supper fun during combat and makes the game very enjoyable.

Kyle W avatar

Kyle W

JonnyDM is THE best DM on here—no question! *Full transparency, he is the only paid DM we have used, but the point remains true =). We were all a little worried about paying for a DM, but could not be happier with our experience and would honestly pay more for everything he provides (please don't up our price though lol). If you're looking for a unique DnD game that's completely focused on creating the best experience for you, the player, then join one of Jonny's games. Our group of 5 ranges from complete novice to an experienced DM - and we have an absolute blast every session. Jonny has crafted an entire world for us to explore and discover new, creative ways to play. The depth and detail with which he's developed this world is truly astonishing. From his homebrewed mechanics to the expansive pantheon and lore of his world - Jonny demonstrates his deep understanding of DnD and what the DnD experience is SUPPOSED to be. Not to mention the great characters and voices he's got DOWN lol. So good! If you're a pain in the 4$$ like me who likes to push the limits sometimes, then Jonny’s rule of cool approach lets you do exactly that. Want to pull off something totally wild? He’s all for it, as long as it doesn't break the game and keeps things fun. He somehow manages to strike the perfect balance between letting you do crazy stuff and keeping the game running smoothly. It’s not an easy line to walk, but he nails it. Outside the game, Jonny is incredibly responsive and always available to chat, answer questions, or help with character building. He puts in so much effort behind the scenes that you can tell this is truly his passion. The prep work he does before every session is next-level, and the world he’s built could easily be published as an official sourcebook. I'd go on, but I don't want to spoil any of the surprises he's got in-store. TLDR: JonnyDM is absolutely amazing and so is his world and game sessions. If you're new to the game, he'll bring you along quickly and make sure you're having a great time. Experienced player? He'll definitely be able to challenge you while allowing you to be creative and push your own boundaries. Are you a DM? Then come check out an expertly crafted world and how to run an amazing game for your players. Do yourself a favor and check out JonnyDM! PS: I wasn't even paid for all this. He's really that good! *Somehow casts Suggestion at 9th level: "JonnyDM wants to give me 17 free sessions!"* ;)

Doublechronox avatar

Doublechronox

Played 50 sessions

What can be said about Jonny that has not been said about the great story tellers of time. His stories are masterfully crafted with passion and purpose. He has prepared his homebrew world to have real history and real opportunities. As a DM he is kind, thoughtful, cares that his players are having fun. He allows players to hold the reigns of their own PC instead of funneling them into a direction. I love the freedom I have to tell my PC's story. He has created an inclusive and positive campaign for our group, one that didn't know each other to start, but now is tightknit and loves playing every week. We wouldn't have that without a good DM.

Jonathan Masson avatar

Jonathan Masson

Played 29 sessions

John John John… what to say? He’s like the best dude. Always in a good mood. Super expressive, gives a solid pace to his games. It’s never boring! And he has an extensive world he created with so many things to discover and explore. So, John for prime minister!! (if you’re Canadian like me) I honestly recommend John

Tyler avatar

Tyler

Played 31 sessions

Jonny is a wonderful DM that makes sure everyone is having fun, uses the Rule of Cool without going overboard, and has a lot of visual aids/voices to help players get immersed in the world. You can tell how much work he's put into the world and into each session, and I can't say I've had a session with him when the group ever thought it was anything less than great.

Additional tables

3 available

2 SEATS LEFT

Bi-weekly / Saturday - 11:00 PM UTC

Apr 12 / Session 19

4 / 6 Seats filled

3 SEATS LEFT

Weekly / Tuesday - 7:30 PM UTC

Apr 1 / Session 37

3 / 6 Seats filled

4 NEEDED TO START

Bi-weekly / Thursday - 11:00 PM UTC

0 / 6 Seats filled

Additional details

How to prepare

Players are encouraged to approach the game with a positive attitude and a readiness to have fun! As this is an online game hosted on Roll20 and Zoom, we kindly request that each player has a functioning microphone and video camera. I highly recommend that players review the Tourist Guide to the Isles PDF and Video (links provided below). Character creation will take place during our Session Zero and in individual Character One-on-One sessions. These sessions aim to establish the character's backstory and delve into their goals and motivations. PDF https://drive.google.com/file/d/16tzlGsHiaV_bJSXhPlwVwYM7BMo-9WyG/view?usp=sharing https://drive.google.com/file/d/1iSOsN3Bh7aHyG9kiRFY4-smm2_eWjj0-/view?usp=sharing Video https://drive.google.com/file/d/1RnW7spttQROJCfB1EGD9uJ7r_FuKX_8H/view?usp=sharing – Cameras must remain on to enhance immersion, role-playing, and collaborative storytelling. – Maintain a good attitude and an open mind. – No experience necessary. – Be punctual. – Avoid dominating the spotlight; ensure everyone has a chance to shine, especially concerning their personal story arc. – Stay focused during the session; no distractions like other games or work. – Engage in collaborative storytelling. – Avoid characters that don’t fit with the party or setting, including murder hobos or evil characters. – Be kind, accepting, and refrain from bullying or degrading anyone. – Most importantly, a good attitude!

What I provide

– Always be prepared for the session. – Be helpful and understanding towards new TTRPG players or those new to 5e. – Maintain an easygoing attitude, emphasizing story, exploration, player motives, and impactful encounters over heavy dungeon crawls or combat. – Make fair and consistent rulings, considering the "rule of cool." – Remember, it's the players' story; I provide hooks and let them develop the rest. – Resolve any tech issues (working camera and audio) before the session starts. – Create a fully fleshed-out world with vibrant NPCs, villainous antagonists, and diverse characters. – Integrate each character into the main storyline. – Conduct a robust one-on-one session zero, to discuss rules, boundaries, character building, and flesh out your character's backstory and find ways to weave them into the plot; periodically check in with each player to align on character development. – Provide fair and challenging combat and social encounters. – Maintain kindness, understanding, and acceptance. –Most importantly, a good attitude!

Gameplay details

I like to start with one-on-one session zeros with all my players! During these sessions, we’ll chat about the rules of the game (especially helpful for new players), go over house rules, table etiquette, expectations, and boundaries. After that, we’ll dive into brainstorming character ideas and work together to create and develop your character. Once your character is ready, we’ll explore their background, motivations, and reasons for adventuring, weaving their story into the larger world of the campaign. It’s a great way to kick things off and make sure your character feels personal and connected! Session 0 and Character Backstory One-on-One: Free Link to the Tourist Guide to the Isles Single page https://drive.google.com/file/d/1iSOsN3Bh7aHyG9kiRFY4-smm2_eWjj0-/view?usp=sharing Campaign Video https://drive.google.com/file/d/1RnW7spttQROJCfB1EGD9uJ7r_FuKX_8H/view?usp=sharing

Content warnings

• Blood

• Alcohol Use

• Kidnapping

• Character Death

• Child Death

• Death

• Execution

• Fire

• Body Horror

• Deep or Large Bodies of Water

• Classism

• Guns

• Gore

• Murder

• Mutilation of Corpses

• Mind alteration

• Mind Control

• Nightmares about Traumatic Events

• Drowning

• Drugs (addiction, use, withdrawal)

• Suffocation

• Scars

Safety tools used

Breaks

Open Door

Session 0

How will character creation work

I like to start with one-on-one session zeros with all my players! During these sessions, we’ll chat about the rules of the game (especially helpful for new players), go over house rules, table etiquette, expectations, and boundaries. After that, we’ll dive into brainstorming character ideas and work together to create and develop your character. Once your character is ready, we’ll explore their background, motivations, and reasons for adventuring, weaving their story into the larger world of the campaign. It’s a great way to kick things off and make sure your character feels personal and connected! Level: 3 Feat: Each character begins with the option to choose one feat at level 1. Ability Scores: Utilise the Standard Array (15, 14, 13, 12, 10, 8). Equipment: Start with the designated starting equipment.

Players can expect

Combat / Tactics

Medium

Roleplay

High

Puzzles

Low

Experience level

Open to all

Platforms used

Roll20

Zoom

FULL
$20.00

/ Session

Each player will be charged when a session starts.

Details

Weekly / Wednesday - 11:00 PM UTC

Apr 2 / Session 55

3-4 Hour duration

6 / 6 Seats filled

Schedule

Wed, Apr 02 | 11:00 PM - Session 55

Wed, Apr 09 | 11:00 PM - Session 56

Wed, Apr 16 | 11:00 PM - Session 57

Wed, Apr 23 | 11:00 PM - Session 58

Wed, Apr 30 | 11:00 PM - Session 59

Wed, May 07 | 11:00 PM - Session 60

Wed, May 14 | 11:00 PM - Session 61

Wed, May 21 | 11:00 PM - Session 62

Requirements

Experience required: Open to all

Age: 18+