Trials of Helm
The ancient Temple of Helm is in peril—its sacred trials now deadly traps, endangering all who seek to prove their worth within.
About the adventure
The ancient Temple of Helm, revered as a bastion of vigilance and protection, is in peril. Recently, the sacred trials within the temple, designed to test the mettle and resolve of aspiring clerics and paladins, have begun to malfunction, presenting dangerous threats rather than intended challenges. You have been summoned by the temple's priests to undertake a critical mission. Your must escort an acolyte through treacherous trials, letting them disable and repairing the traps and puzzles as you go.
Game themes
Meet the Game Master
About me
Hi, I’m Chris — and I have a serious addiction to D&D. Since I first started playing around 2010, I’ve never looked back. I began GM-ing in 2017, and it quickly became my passion. With my friends, I helped grow our group to about 10 players, rotating GMs every week. One of my favorite traditions was hosting an annual awards evening where all the GMs ran mini-adventures — a night full of fun, surprises, and great memories. Originally from the UK, I married a South African and now run immersive D&D Weekends out in the wilds of South Africa. Check out what it’s all about at https://waterberg-dnd.co.za. I’m all about the rule of cool over strict rules, crafting epic, player-driven stories that really bring the adventure to life. My greatest strength? Off-the-cuff improvisation — but don’t worry, my worlds are rich in detail with pages of notes for every session. I can’t wait to share some unforgettable adventures with you!
View Profile →Reviews (42)
Proficiencies
Players say this GM is great at:
Creativity
Rule of Cool
Teacher
Chris is a fantastic DM. He respected my creative process to build just the right character for my tastes, and also was helpful to figure out how things would work with our group's dynamics. So far, this is one of the most fun start's to a campaign I have experienced in a long time. I have been wanting to play Storm King's Thunder for a long time now, and it was worth the wait, in finding Chris to DM it. He not only hosts internet games, but some of his players are lucky enough to join him all the way in South Africa, for D&D seasonal D&D table top weekends. I think that is amazing. Don't let his affordable prices concern you, he is a 5 star DM. There was an even mix of combat and roleplay, and never a dull moment. Also, definitely check out his one-shot heist adventure, "Fishgut Tower Heist". This is an exciting and challenging one-shot, with great teamwork opportunities. I can't wait till the next session. HUZZAH!!!
Chris is a wonderful DM, especially as I'm a new player he was very helpful in making the session a safe place to mess around and work on my own style of playing. I will for sure be joining more of his sessions in the future. Side note: seems silly to note, but I am quite grateful that he fully respected my pronouns. Its really important and made the session super special for me.
Character creation
Creating your character
After signing up to the game you will have access to the D&D Beyond Campaign, Roll20 Game and Discord Server link to join and create your characters. We are playing level 4 characters, using either standard array or point buy, on top of that if you would like you can have one common magic item. Only official content without discussing first!
What to expect
Preparing for the session
Join the D&D Beyond Campaign, Roll20 Game & Discord Server, create your character and make sure you're internet and mic is working!
What Chris brings to the table
I'll bring custom maps for the temple (using Roll20). My DM style is very rule of cool and encourage discussion if you disagree with a ruling. I do limited voices (best to my ability) and am very good with ad-libbing content, so lets be creative!
Homebrew rules
My playstyle leans toward Rules as Fun—I value creating an engaging experience over strict rule adherence. I’m always open to bending the rules if it makes the game more enjoyable. That said, here are a few common homebrew rules I use: - Drinking a potion is a bonus action. Giving one to another player takes a full action. - Area of effect attacks may deal double damage on a Nat 20 or none on a Nat 1. I use this more for cinematic or low-stakes moments—for example, doubling 8 damage on a Nat 1, but not 60. - Failed death saves carry over during combat (we’ll chat about this before it comes up). - When unsure if something should work, I’ll often roll odds/evens to decide. - I try to avoid players feeling useless on their turn. For example, if you save against a stun at the end of your turn, I may still let you act. Same with death saves.
Equipment needed to play
Computer
Internet
Microphone
Mobile Phone
Platforms used
Safety
How Chris creates a safe table
This is a very lighthearted and straightforward adventure without any serious or upsetting themes. I'll be available and very receptive before, during and after game play incase there is any content or themes you'd like to discuss.