Castle Ravenloft: An Old School Take on a Classic | One-Shot
Shadowdark RPG | One-Shot
About the adventure
Step into the shadowed halls of Castle Ravenloft, where death waits behind every door and hope is a fleeting memory. This Halloween, experience the gothic horror of the original Ravenloft I6 module through the brutal lens of ShadowDark RPG rules. As part of a party of doomed adventurers, you will face off against ancient evils, deadly traps, and twisted monstrosities, with one clear goal: to kill the dread vampire lord, Strahd von Zarovich. Expect gritty, old-school gameplay with brutal combat, deadly encounters, and an oppressive atmosphere where each choice is crucial and every step could be your last. Your characters will be pushed to their limits, struggling to survive in a setting where the light of hope is snuffed out, and the castle itself seems alive with malevolent intent. This isn’t a game of heroism, but one of survival—where the price of failure is not just death, but something far worse. Perfect for players who love dark themes and the thrill of old-school dungeon crawls, this game will challenge your wits and mettle. With no guarantee of survival, your only chance lies in outwitting Strahd and navigating the horrors of Ravenloft. Will you defeat the lord of the castle, or become yet another soul trapped within its cursed walls?
1 year on StartPlaying
52 games hosted
Highly rated for: Creativity, World Builder, Sets the Mood
Game Master Reviews (6)
Proficiencies
Players say this GM is great at:
Creativity
World Builder
Sets the Mood
This DM has very entertaining stories, layered with depth that induces thought and scenarios that test the morality and reputation of your character. To add on to that, lying to the wrong NPC might screw you over, 10, maybe 15 sessions later, giving your decisions and actions meaning. The worlds he creates are immersive, captivating and highly interactive, ensuring a wonderful night of role-play and storytelling.
Kofi creates an immersive, imaginary world for us to explore. The storytelling is creative and steeped in African-centered lore -- from the characters and the weapons to the food, the drinks, and the orishas. His use of music, sound effects, pictures, and voice mods make you feel as if you have stepped into a different world...an exciting world. It is clear Kofi spends a lot of time crafting each campaign, and he continually adapts the world to his players needs. I am always excited to see where our adventures will take us and I highly encourage everyone to experience to magic and awe of Alkebulan.
The world of Alkebulan feels very immersive. The use of soundscapes makes you feel as if you are there, and the music always sets the right tone. The puzzles are fun to solve and the monsters keep you on your toes. I truly enjoy roleplaying in Alkebulan. I'm eager to see what the next adventure brings!
I first played Dungeons & Dragons in 1979; I was taught by one of the two owners of Judges Guild one of the first ever Dungeons & Dragons supplement companies; and I have been playing off and on for over close to 40 years. Some would say I know a thing or two about D&D. I have had the opportunity to play with a good number of DMS. Some have been good, most okay, and some have been bad. Less than 5 of the DMs I have played with have been very good to great. I would have to say...Kofi is in the top three of the best DMs I've ever played with! Hands down. His homebrew world is a treat and absolutely refreshing when compared to the carbon copy worlds that I've partaken in. Now I will say that even though new players can join his game and find success in his world, it is more of a game for advanced players tired of same old same old. I have thoroughly enjoyed my character in his world and Kofi worked closely with me to meld my backstory with his campaign and I have been very satisfied and a few times surprised at how he has developed adventures within the game that catered to my character. If a player, new or experienced, asked me should they take the chance and join one of his games I would say: You would be a fool not to!
Kofi is a dedicated GM whose very passionate about the world of Alkebulan and spends alot of time developing it (down to: cultural festivals, downtime activities,character development...even a judicial system). He provides a fun atmosphere to set the mood and uses cool visual aids in his interactive maps. If you have questions and ideas, he's always willing to listen, consider and assist in your character development. Critical thinking and teamwork is highly advised and often rewarded. Tip: if it isn't on your character, you don't have it. Write notes too. It'll benefit you believe me. Ultimately, Kofi understands that the game is constantly expanding and adapts accordingly. I look forward to experiencing his world with you. Let's make 2024 a great one.
Additional details
How to prepare
You will need both a Roll20 and Discord account. Both are free.
What I provide
Tools and Platforms: Virtual Tabletop (VTT): I run games on Roll20, providing detailed maps, dynamic lighting, and smooth gameplay. The tactical layout enhances the experience during intense combat encounters. Custom Maps & Tokens: I regularly create and curate custom maps and tokens, whether it’s for a sprawling dungeon, a haunted castle, or a perilous swamp. Every environment will feel unique, alive, and appropriate for the narrative. Immersive Sounds & Music: From ambient music to the eerie sound of hags cackling deep within a swamp, I use atmospheric soundscapes and mood music to draw you further into the world. Expect thematic soundtracks during key moments that ramp up the tension or triumph. My GM Style: I aim to create games that are gritty, immersive, and dynamic. I embrace a old school approach, where challenges feel real, and the stakes are high. Combat is tactical and brutal, with foes that require you to think, adapt, and strategize. At the same time, I love diving into character-driven narratives, offering you chances to shape the story through your character’s actions and backstory. Tactical Combat: Battles are gritty and dangerous. I encourage teamwork and careful planning. Each encounter is designed to challenge not just your characters’ strength, but their wits. Immersive Social Interaction: Character voices? Absolutely! I lean into voices and personalities, whether it’s a menacing Shadow Dragon or a quirky gnome wizard. Your interactions with NPCs will feel layered, and I will encourage you to bring your characters to life through meaningful dialogue. Dark, Epic Stories: Expect encounters that push your characters to the limit, with stories that linger long after the session ends. Whether you’re fighting a coven of hags in a Fey-touched lair or navigating through the dread of a Ravenloft castle, every session is designed to have moments of awe and intensity. What You Can Expect: You can expect a serious, story-driven game with deep lore, rich environments, and formidable challenges. I prioritize role play, immersion and atmosphere, especially in combat and exploration. This is the kind of game where the world feels alive, and even in the darkest, most dangerous moments, there’s always a glimmer of hope for those willing to risk everything. Players will leave each session feeling as though they’ve experienced something truly epic and personal, and I promise to bring my best game every time to help you create memories that will stick with you long after the campaign is done.
Gameplay details
We are using ShadowDark RPG to best replicate the original danger and tension of the Classic AD&D Ravenloft I6 module. The mood will be dark, scary, and violent but not excessively gory.
Content warnings
Safety tools used
• Breaks
• Lines and Veils
• Open Door
How will character creation work
Pre-generated characters will be provided for you, as well as back ups when, I mean if, you need them.
Players can expect
Combat / Tactics
High
Roleplay
High
Puzzles
Medium
Experience level
Open to all
Platforms used
• Roll20
• Discord
$30.00
/ Session
Each player will be charged when a session starts.
Details
Once / Wednesday - 11:00 PM UTC
Oct 30
4-5 Hour Duration
1 / 5 Seats Filled
Requirements
Experience required: Open to all
Age: 18+