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Curse of Strahd - 50% off first session!
In a land of swirling mists and creeping shadows, heroes must rise. Strahd rules with terror, and hope is but a fading light.
$16.00
/ Session
Details
Weekly / Saturday - 3:00 AM UTC
Session Duration / 3–4 hours
3 / 5 Seats Filled
Top Game Master
One of StartPlaying's top-rated GMs, a player favorite and highly recommended.
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Meet your party members
3/5
About the adventure
Where the mists swirl and shadows creep, unexpected heroes must rise against a land consumed by darkness. Enter the domain of Strahd, where terror reigns and the light of hope flickers dimly. This game begins at level 3, with the players summoned to the cursed land of Barovia. Trapped in an unfamiliar world, you will face relentless horrors, from the undead lurking in the fog to the whispers of the Dark Fey. Every step is fraught with danger, and every choice could be your last. This is a gothic horror adventure, filled with dread, despair, and difficult choices. It is not for the faint of heart, but for those who dare to stand against the night. Will you survive Barovia, or will it claim you as its own?
Game style
Rule of Cool (RoC)
Roleplay Heavy
Combat Heavy
Game themes
Meet the Game Master
4.9
(60)
2 years on StartPlaying
250 games hosted
Highly rated for: Creativity, Rule of Cool, Teacher
Average response time: 1 hour
Response rate: 100%
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 →Character creation
Creating your character
After signing up to the game you will have access to the D&D Beyond Campaign and Discord Server link to join and create your characters. We are starting with level 3 characters, using either standard array or point buy as well as starting equipment/gold equivalent and one common item. Please discuss with me before using any unofficial content.
What to expect
Preparing for the session
Join the D&D Beyond Campaign & Discord Server, create your character and make sure you're internet and mic is working!
What Chris brings to the table
We'll be playing using maps from the adventure (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 encourage creativity!
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
Microphone
Internet
Mobile Phone
Platforms used
Safety
How Chris creates a safe table
My play style is very lighthearted and fun in general, though Curse of Strahd is a horror adventure with many upsetting themes. We will discuss these themes in advance and how best to approach them, if at any point someone feels uncomfortable it is best to highlight (whether publicly or privately) and we'll resolve the issue quickly and get back to enjoying the game! I'll also be available and very receptive before, during and after game play incase there is any content or themes you'd like to discuss.
Content warnings
Safety tools used