The Broken Hour: A Mage: The Awakening 2E Chronicle
As a mage, you are about to step into a town haunted by its past, where history twists, time fractures, and the lines defining reality blur.
TYPE
SYSTEM
EXPERIENCE
AGE
About the adventure
In 2000, the small town of Attica, New York, began to rise. After decades of economic stagnation, new families arrived, businesses opened, and hope seemed to take root in the cracks of its quiet streets. By 2020, the town was alive. However, in 2023, everything changed. The official explanation speaks of failing industries, an aging population, and restless youth seeking brighter futures—or so the story goes. The truth, however, is something else entirely. Attica’s decline was not just the result of poor economics, but something far more deliberate and dangerous. A single act of hubris and desperation—one that has left the town on the edge of something incomprehensible. As a mage, you are about to step into a town haunted by its past, where history twists, time fractures, and the lines defining reality blur. The Consilium of New York has sent you to uncover the truth. Marcus Vale, a fellow mage from the Mysterium, disappeared weeks ago while searching for an artifact. His last message: "I think I’ve found it..." Will you uncover its secrets, or will its shadows consume everything, including yourselves? WHAT IS MAGE? YOU ARE AWAKE! You finally see through the Lie. You climbed the tower and found the truth, it was there all along, waiting for you. Now that you are Awake, there is no turning back. Your only path is forward. But why you? And why now? Something is moving, watching, acting upon everything and everyone, while the rest of the world remains unaware. Like the boogeyman under a child’s bed, it waits for the moment when no one is looking. Mage is a game of secret knowledge and hubristic pride, of knowing too much and becoming isolated by insight into the hidden forces and twisting occult conspiracies that shape the Fallen World. It is a game of power and obsession, where knowledge outpaces wisdom, and where the temptation to reach beyond your grasp is ever-present. It is a game about turning away from the comfort of Sleep to chase the weird and the occult, of mages as occult detectives, confronting the supernatural in a gnostic world where reality itself is a mystery waiting to be unraveled.
Game themes
Meet the Game Master
4 years on StartPlaying
368 games hosted
Highly rated for: Creativity, Rule of Cool, Teacher
Average response time: 2 hours
Response rate: 100%
About me
With over 20 years of experience playing TTRPGs, I have developed a deep passion for the industry and a wealth of knowledge to draw upon. Each game I play has only strengthened my love for the genre, and I am committed to creating unforgettable gaming experiences for my players. As a game master, my priority is to ensure that my players have a fun and engaging experience that allows them the freedom to be creative with their characters. I find nothing more rewarding than seeing players fully engaged with the story, whether it be through laughter or tense anticipation of the action to come. My goal is to create an immersive and gratifying experience for all involved. My preferred genre is gritty realism and horror, and I strive to incorporate this into each game I run without disrupting the flow of the players' storytelling. I am adept at crafting customized adventures tailored to each player's character, but I am also experienced in running pre-written modules for those who prefer a more structured gaming experience. Are you searching for a skilled and experienced game master to lead you on an exciting TTRPG adventure? Look no further because I am here to guide you! Don't hesitate to contact me if you are seeking a passionate and experienced game master to help bring your TTRPG adventure to life. Let's connect for a friendly chat and discuss how we can make your gaming experience one to remember!
View Profile →Reviews (26)
Proficiencies
Players say this GM is great at:
Creativity
Rule of Cool
Teacher
Davide is hands down one of the best dms I've ever had in 35 years of gaming. His genuine love of gaming is evident when he runs games. He truly does put 1000% into his games so you the player has a great time. He brings so much content to his games you can be anything, play anything, He let's your omagination soar.
In my little over of a decade of table top rpgs, never have I had the same experience as I’ve had with David here. I look for one thing over all when it comes to ttrpgs, and that’s immersion. I want to escape to a world of fantasy and feel like I’m there, and David has been my go to for about 4 years now. I can’t recommend a better DM.
I continue to enjoy David's games. I love the danger and hardcore style of adventuring and one doesn't know what secret lies around the corner or what is lurking there. Risk of death or a tpk are always a possibility. I enjoy the gritty playstyle! David offers assistance to the uninitiated and will help out and answer any questions. His descriptions of the surroundings and different voices help lend to immersion. Awesome, would definitely recommend... Peter
Dave is an amazing Dungeon Master who brings adventure to life with his storytelling and creativity. He makes every game exciting and inclusive, crafting memorable experiences for everyone at the table. With Dave leading the way, Dungeons and Dragons becomes a thrilling journey you won't forget.
Character creation
Creating your character
Session 0: Foundations of the Chronicle Session 0 will be dedicated to setting the stage for the game, ensuring that all players are comfortable with the mechanics, character creation, and the story’s tone by covering the themes, mood, and expectations of the game, creating a smooth and engaging experience before we begin. We will discuss the setting, rules, and character expectations, allowing everyone to shape their place within the chronicle. Players will have the opportunity to craft their own characters. However, Pregenerated characters will be available for those who prefer a ready-to-play option.
What to expect
Preparing for the session
The Usual to play an online game on Foundry, powered by the Forge vtt: Computer, Dscord Account, Headset, The Forge vtt Free account, Internet conection, Yourself.
What Firehouse Games brings to the table
Over 20 years of experience running roleplaying games, which means I've seen Alot and can handle any situation that arises. A willingness to embrace the weird and unusual, so you can expect a game that's full of surprises and unexpected twists. Creativity in crafting stories and managing plots that often go off the rails, which means you and your fellow players will have plenty of opportunities to explore and shape the game world. hundreds of professional games, some of which I have, and still am, hosted on Startplaying, with a growing community of players who keep coming back for more. Shared content through my my digital Library. A wealth of resources that will help enhance your gaming experience like not many. Most importsantly, I will bring excitement, creativity, and experience, to turn your game into an ADVENTURE!
Equipment needed to play
Computer
Headphones
Internet
Microphone
Platforms used
Safety
How Firehouse Games creates a safe table
Safety Tools & Gameplay Details We will begin with a Session 0, where we discuss boundaries, triggers, and expectations. Any sensitive content, themes, or potential concerns should be addressed here. Primary Safety Tools: 1) Breaks – A 10-minute break will be scheduled to provide breathing room for players. 2) Debriefing – After each session, a short discussion is encouraged for feedback and adjustments. 3) Open Door Policy – If at any time a player feels uncomfortable, they are free to step away without judgment. 4) All safety discussions and character creation will take place in Session 0, ensuring the game remains a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone. Three Table Rules 1) A preliminary interview process can be scheduled if clarifications are required. 2) Real-life sexual, political, or religious content (unrelated to the game) is banned from the table. 3) If there's anything that triggers you, PLEASE let me know. Would you like to expand on how debriefing works or include specific examples of triggers?