Blackout after the end (Homebrew)
Dungeons & Dragons 5e | Campaign
About the adventure
The Blackout World: A Post-Apocalyptic Fusion of Magic and Industry The Blackout devastated civilization, plunging the world into eternal darkness and rendering electricity obsolete. Humanity was forced to adapt, blending steam-powered machinery, diesel technology, and rediscovered magic to survive. Once-great cities transformed into fortified industrial bastions, ruled by factions struggling for control in a world reshaped by ingenuity and conflict. A New Era of Innovation: Without electricity, the world reverted to older technologies, reinventing steam and diesel as the backbone of survival. Magic, dormant for centuries, reemerged, fusing with technology to create powerful arcane-mechanical hybrids. This blend powers cities, from steam-powered airships to diesel-fueled trains, while enchanted artifacts and machinery redefine human potential. Cities of Resilience: In the Blackout world, cities are hubs of power, shielded by towering walls, advanced industrial defenses, and magic. These urban centers produce weapons, machinery, and magic items vital for survival. Some cities thrive through innovation and trade, while others are locked in political strife or militarized rule. Beyond their borders, desolate wastelands, overgrown ruins, and dangerous wildlands test the endurance of travelers. Faith and Mysticism: The collapse of modern life gave rise to new spiritual beliefs and practices. The World Tree, a massive mystical entity, connects the realms of the living and the dead, serving as both a symbol of balance and a source of power. Meanwhile a new god is discovered, reshaping the moral and spiritual foundations of humanity. Factions of Influence: The Blackout era birthed powerful organizations vying for resources, influence, and control. From militarized groups and industrial collectives to arcane scholars and underground movements, each faction seeks to shape the future. The balance of power is tenuous, with fragile alliances and shadowy conspiracies driving much of the world’s intrigue. Survival and Conflict: The Blackout World is a realm of survival, where ingenuity and adaptability are the keys to life. Cities stand as beacons of hope amidst chaos, but the pressures of dwindling resources, political struggles, and threats from monstrous forces keep the world in a constant state of tension. Those who navigate this world must choose their allegiances wisely, as every decision carries consequences in the fight to rebuild a broken civilization. In this world of darkness and light, humanity struggles not only against external dangers but also its own fractured nature, striving to create a future from the remnants of the past.
Game style
Rule of Cool (RoC)
“Rule of Cool” emphasizes creative story beats over sticking to a system’s rules as written. Players have the ability to push the limits of the rules or even break core rule mechanics at times if the Game Master thinks it is interesting, fun, or cool enough.
Combat Heavy
“Combat Heavy” games emphasize the combat mechanics within their systems over roleplay or puzzle solving. There are frequent and longer battles with enemies and a greater emphasis on tactical game play.
Roleplay Heavy
“Roleplay Heavy” games place the focus on the story, the characters, and the world they live within, and tend to lean hard into the various roleplaying elements of the game. These games will frequently find the party talking with NPCs, exploring the personal elements of their backstories, or even having emotional moments around the camp fire.
5.0
(4)
Less than a year on StartPlaying
Highly rated for: Creativity, Rule of Cool, World Builder
Additional details
How to prepare
Technical Requirements Voice Chat: A working microphone is required (webcam is optional). Platform & Tools: [Specify VTT, e.g., Roll20, Foundry, etc.] – Players need an account. 5eTools is allowed for rules and resources. Homebrew/Modifications require prior approval. Stats & Rolls: All stats are rolled using bot commands in the designated channel. Character Requirements Short-Term Survival: Unlike other campaigns, character deaths will be frequent, and new characters will replace them. Long-term character arcs aren’t necessary. Character Details: Personality Traits, Ideals, Bonds, and Flaws should be written out. Appearance: Provide a description and an image/token. Background: Minimum 100 words, including any allies or affiliations (to be discussed with the DM). Reward: Each character will receive a personalized item or treasure related to their background. Player Expectations Respectful Behavior: Be appropriate and respectful to fellow players. Punctuality: Be on time for sessions and respect the game schedule. Rules Compliance: Follow the rules chat and game guidelines. Absences: Notify at least 24 hours in advance if you can’t attend. Real-Life Topics: Avoid IRL-sensitive topics in the game to maintain immersion. By following these guidelines, we can ensure a fun, fast-paced, and engaging game for everyone. If you have any questions, feel free to ask!
What I provide
What I Bring to the Table Detailed Maps & Tokens: High-quality, custom maps to enhance immersion and player interaction, along with unique NPC and monster tokens for a more engaging visual experience. Custom Homebrew Content: Unique monsters, NPCs, and mechanics designed to surprise and challenge players in ways they might not expect. Ambience & Immersion Music & Effects: I incorporate ambient music and Roll20 effects to heighten the atmosphere and bring scenes to life. Character Voices: While I’m not a professional voice actor, I do my best to add variety to NPC dialogue, making interactions more memorable. Combat Style Challenging & Tactical Fights: My combat encounters are intense and sometimes difficult, requiring more than just character abilities. Players will need to use their surroundings, creativity, and teamwork to succeed. Homebrew Enemies & Unexpected Encounters: I design custom creatures and battles that keep things fresh, but I always ensure there’s a way forward—my goal is to challenge, not to punish. Player-Focused Approach: While combat can be tough, I keep the game fun and fair, ensuring that every encounter is engaging rather than frustrating. Rules & Flexibility Rules as a Guide, Not a Restriction: I respect the core rules of D&D, but I see the books as guidelines rather than strict laws. When rules get in the way of fun or a great narrative moment, I adapt them to fit the situation. Balance Between RAW & Rule of Cool: I enjoy creating my own mechanics and rule variations while ensuring the foundation of the game remains intact. My GM Style: Chaotic Good As my name, "Chaotic Good DM," suggests, my games are unpredictable, filled with things you’ve likely never seen before, and designed for exploration and discovery. My goal is to create an experience that is fun, exciting, and immersive—where players feel free to think outside the box and truly shape the world around them.
Gameplay details
Session 0, Consent List, Q&A After every Session
Content warnings
Safety tools used
• Aftercare
• Bleed
• Debriefing
• Luxton Technique
• Luxton Technique Discussion
• Monte Cook RPG Consent Checklist
• Open Door
• Session 0
• X, N, and O Cards
How will character creation work
The Blackout Campaign is a post-apocalyptic world blending survival, magic, technology, and political intrigue set 50 years after the fall of civilization. Players should prepare for a harsh, immersive experience where choices have lasting consequences. 1. Technical & Setup Requirements Microphone & Webcam (optional but encouraged) Virtual Tabletop Access (Roll20, Foundry, or other) Character Sheet Management (D&D Beyond, Myth-Weavers, or Google Docs) Dice (physical or digital, Avrae for Discord) 2. Pre-Game Preparation Read the Setting Primer (Blackout world history, factions, technology, and magic rules). Understand Homebrew Mechanics (Mana disrupts technology, survival elements, and faction reputation systems). 3. Character Creation Rules & System D&D 5e (modified) or a custom homebrew system Level 3 starts with survival elements; Level 5+ introduces faction conflicts Character Concept Survivors, Mercenaries, Scholars, or Revolutionaries—must have strong motivations. Tied to the Blackout world—origin from a city, faction, or background that fits. Moral Ambiguity—the world is full of gray choices. Races & Classes Humans are rare, new species dominate. Magic & Tech conflict—choose between arcane power or industrial strength. Homebrew subclasses available (Scrap Tech Engineer, Arcane Alchemist, Bio-Warlock, etc.). Starting Gear & Resources Weapons & Armor are setting-specific (ballistic armor, melee weapons, low-tech firearms). Currency is survival-based (bullets, medicine, rare materials). 4. Roleplay & Game Expectations Realism & Tactical Thinking Matter—cooperation is key. Choices Have Lasting Consequences—killing an NPC may trigger war. Engage With the World—factions act autonomously. Harsh Recovery System—resources must be earned. Narrative & Combat Balance—expect intrigue, survival, and occasional intense battles. 5. Key Questions for Players 1. What is your character’s ultimate goal? 2. What faction or city do they belong to? 3. What is their greatest fear? 4. How do they justify violence? 5. What personal mystery haunts them? Final Thoughts A Blackout campaign offers a deeply immersive experience. Be prepared for survival challenges, faction warfare, and political intrigue in a brutal world where every decision shapes the future.
Players can expect
Combat / Tactics
High
Roleplay
Medium
Puzzles
Medium
Experience level
Beginner
Platforms used
• Discord
• Roll20
• D&D Beyond
$15.00
/ Session
Each player will be charged when a session starts.
Details
Weekly / Sunday - 9:00 AM UTC
4-5 Hour duration
1 / 6 Seats filled
Requirements
Experience required: Beginner
Age: All Ages