GM Workshop

I learned the art and alchemy of DMing from playing in Daniel's campaigns. Over the years and a half dozen or more campaigns I've watched him grow from an ambitious, bright-eyed amateur to a true virtuoso who effortlessly (or so it will feel...) blends creative use of rules, harsh but fair combats, musical and alternate media, and just an all around good time to create a rounded experience that's an absolute blast to play. Can't recommend him enough. 11/10.

Dan is an artist and approaches the game as an art form with players serving as collaborators in the artistic process of story telling. He strikes the perfect balance of challenging players while being sensitive to their limitations and level of experience. He provides rich creative content to help players immerse themselves in the world of the game and is open (eager even!) to shift and change to accommodate the interests and ideas of his players. My campaign with Dan was one of my first ever and I felt like I was able to learn, grow, and exercise my own creativity in a safe and supportive environment. Each game he leads is a masterpiece of collaborative storytelling filled with lasting memories for players.

It was pure serendipity that my first ever TTRPG campaign was with Dan Marino. This is a GM who thrives off of the creativity of his players and happily goes on the back foot only to turn around and present you with a brilliant and meaningful twist. He is a thoughtful, dynamic storyteller, and the campaign we played blooms vivid in my heart many years later. I spent years listening to actual play podcasts and wanting to play but feeling anxious and shy around actually approaching the actual community. As a queer femme-presenting person well familiar with the nerdy and geeky world I had no illusions about the type of player or group I was likely to meet. I am truly so lucky to have met and played with someone like Dan. Dan is not only intentionally inclusive with the people at his table, he threads diversity into the fabric of his worlds. You are not unseen nor are you alienated. You simply are, and get to be. If you want to be a part of a beautiful story to treasure for many years to come, absolutely play a game with Dan Marino.

Truly an incredible GM. Narrative, character, and vibes to the front. He's got command of the rules but that's less important than creating a space for shared story telling.

Daniel Marino was the GM of my first ever DnD game. He had no problem helping me learn the rules and strategies, and even provided extra guidance with building my character. His stories are captivating and his story telling process is inclusive. He gave us a lot to work with and helped me feel like my first ever character could really fit into the world. The experience I had in my first game is a big part of the reason I still like to play, and fully enjoy the game. He's great for beginners and experienced players alike. He'll run a fantastic game with a great story that will still sit with you years after it's over.

Where to begin about this cat. He is a true craftsman that can deliver top notch characters and narrative. He loves the game and it shows in every moment of play. He has a deep knowledge of and understanding of what makes table top role playing special. Quite frankly, I feel incredibly lucky to have played with him. You'd be hard pressed to find better.