Tomb Around Annihilation

Creating your character

We will build characters together in session 0. I can provide a character on request. You are welcome to create your own backstory, but we might have to tweak it to accommodate the setting or other players. Characters will begin at 3rd level, and I let my players roll and then pick either their result or the standard array. If you would like to use unofficial material, please provide it to me before the start of session 0. I reserve the right to either reject or modify it. Character sheets can be kept either on Roll 20 or by another method of your choice.

Preparing for the session

Players will need a microphone, webcam, and discord account. It will be your responsibility to learn how your character functions and to track things like inventory/hit points, but I am here to help! If you have never played before, please let me know before session 0 so I can address any concerns you might have.

What Rivas brings to the table

I use Roll 20 as a VTT (Virtual Table Top) and stream it through discord. You are welcome to join through Roll 20, but Roll 20 is not required. I can provide you a character on request. I use ambient music streamed through discord; if you have a favorite piece I would love to hear it! I use character voices sparingly because I do not want to pressure the players into using voices and because I like saving that technique for special moments. I really enjoy character development, but I tend to accomplish that through narrating actions rather than long monologues. I try to ensure that each session has at least one combat, roleplaying, and exploration encounter, but if player choices preclude that I won’t force one. Some sessions might end up as shopping episodes, and others might only feature 2 combats. I regard player choice as equally important as pacing, so if players want a shopping session, I don’t see a reason to stop them. I tend to stick to the rules pretty closely, but clever ideas and/or good die rolls can get you further than the rules might suggest. Combats will challenge you, especially at low levels. Past beginner players have told me I am dynamic, helpful, and creative. Veteran players commend me for valuing the player experience over strict adherence to either the rules or my idea of the plot. I hope to collaboratively improvise a memorable experience.

Homebrew rules

I use a rest variant. Long rests instead of occuring each adventuring day happen only once about every three sessions or so. This allows for more meaningful and dramatic fights, without making the fights very "swingy" or razor edged. Short rests are still very commonplace.

How Rivas creates a safe table

In session 0, I will go over the recurring and probable topics of the game likely to cause a player emotional distress. Because of the improvisational nature of D&D, I cannot anticipate every contingency, especially what other players say. I expect the players to interrupt me or another player if we begin moving towards an uncomfortable topic. I want each player to feel comfortable to critique the session at any point; I welcome the feedback.