Hold Back the Dead: Skullkeeper's Curse | 4th Level One-Shot

I had the pleasure of being at a table DM'ed by Jhonny this weekend at GameStorm. Here's my review. Jhonny described in striking detail what our characters were seeing, not just when we arrive in a new location -- "You see steam rising from the hot vials of alchemical supplies" -- but also throughout the adventure -- "Your chromatic orb goes through the wound caused by your ally and sticks there causing more damage." Well, he was better than my recollection, I promise. Not only that but he really brings the NPCs to life, giving them unique voices and accents. And also conveying their emotions. When my character hit an enemy for a lot of damage, he looked at me with anger, which I could feel. He's that good. He uses hand gestures to imitate the movements your character or the NPCs might use when casting spells. He uses sounds to make the world to life. "Branches of the tree magically -- critch critch critch -- stretch out..." Or "... purple electricity continues to spark -- zzzitch, zzzitch -- in their eyes as they glare at you." Finally, he plays subtle, appropriate music throughout the adventure, giving a more eerie feeling or adding to a more exciting combat. I think he has extraordinary talent. And I really hope I can be at his table again.

Jhonny GM'd a game for us that included a wide range of ages and experience at the table. They were such a creative story teller and their NPC role-playing was top-notch, making the experience truly immersive. I was especially endeared by how he accommodated my young son throughout the game, incorporating his ideas and interests into the story seamlessly. The game was still very exciting for the adults too! Jhonny is a very skilled GM and I highly recommend them!

I played with some friends and Jhonny was such an amazing DM!! It was our first time doing a paid game so we were nervous, but Jhonny was welcoming and knowledgeable and patient. They made sure we were comfortable, gave us a vivid description of what was going on, and allowed characters and their backstories to shine, even within a short combat-heavy oneshot. I could not recommend them enough and all of us are so excited to play with them again!!

If I could leave more than five stars I would. Its been a VERY long time since I've had such an enjoyable game like this one. 😭💖 Johnny was such a lighthearted cool DM, and molded so quickly to our groups play style and vibe. Speaking on the behalf of the friends I played with, we all felt we had such great fun, and even had our own special moments. I for one am very shy about roleplay (but desperately want to engage)!! This was the first game I've ever played where I felt comfortable enough to do so, without feeling forced into it!! Johnny encouraged with me in an way that didn't feel pushy (and of course roleplay wasn't required, but I made it known that I'm shy and really want to do better!). There were also SO many cool moments that he allowed us to pull off purely because of creativity! I really love that because I'm definitely one of those people that goes wild with spell descriptions and overall using spells NOT as intended haha Genuinely I cannot recommend them enough!! Great story telling, descriptions, and overall friendly vibes! If I were you I'd grab a table soon, becuase I can forsee them becoming very popular 😉

You'll love playing with Jhonny! Ended up at a random "learn how to play" table at a Comic Con where they happened to be the DM. Enjoyed it so much I came back for another longer one shot with them that night! If you are newer, I recommend Jhonny for someone that will get you playing without letting the rules overwhelm you. Clever, dramatic, captivating, and immersive. Learning can be a challenge but I had the best time. I can only imagine how much fun you'll have with a seasoned gang.

Jhonny is a wonderful GM! I have played two oneshots with them and each time I have been delighted by their storytelling and world-building. They are very beginner friendly and roll with wherever the dice land, really helping players to move forward and have a really good time together! I really enjoy Jhonny’s mindfulness and inclusive GMing and would be delighted to join their table anytime!