Trapped in the Mage Tower – A Deadly One-Shot (Level 1)
Dungeons & Dragons 5e | One-Shot
About the adventure
You’ve seen the post: “The Mage Tower is open for visitors! Come marvel at the mysteries within.” It sounds too good to be true — and it is. This one-shot adventure begins at the gates of a mysterious tower in the woods, promising wonder and arcane artifacts. But once inside, your party quickly realizes the invitation was a trap. The eccentric and cruel mage who owns the tower delights in watching adventurers struggle through his magical gauntlet of traps, monsters, and mind-bending puzzles. Designed as a fast-paced dungeon crawl, Mage Tower of the Mad Arcanist will take you through deadly floors filled with collapsing pit traps, venomous needles, vicious guard dogs, and cruel lizardfolk guardians. Puzzles and skill challenges await between every combat — with a final boss fight against the twisted mage himself in his library atop the tower. Whether you're brand new to D&D or a veteran looking for a tight, puzzle-meets-combat one-shot, this game is packed with tension, problem-solving, and dark humor. Expect player creativity, collaboration, and a few surprise twists.
5.0
(7)
2 years on StartPlaying
Highly rated for: Creativity, Inclusive, Knows the Rules
Average response time: Under 1 hour
Response rate: 100%
Additional details
How to prepare
Here’s what you’ll need to join this game: ✅ Create a free account on D&D Beyond ✅ Join our Discord server (link sent after booking) ✅ Use Discord for both voice and optional video ✅ Stable internet connection and a working mic ✅ No need to read the rules ahead of time – I’ll teach you as we go Optional but helpful: 🎧 Headphones for clear audio 📄 Notebook or dice if you prefer analog alongside D&D Beyond 🍕 A snack and a sense of humor — this is a six-hour game with a short break midway
What I provide
Custom battle maps (shared via Roll20 VTT) Pre-generated level 1 characters (or BYO character) Theater of the Mind + Tactical Combat Hybrid Digital handouts for puzzles Fun NPC voices, light music ambiance Flexible rulings + rule of cool Optional post-game XP milestone handoff if you'd like to continue with your character elsewhere
Gameplay details
X/N/O cards via chat commands Session 0 briefing (10–15 min before game start) for tone-setting and expectations Aftercare chat to decompress and share highlights Open-door policy for players to step out at any time
Content warnings
Safety tools used
• Breaks
• Debriefing
• Session 0
• X, N, and O Cards
How will character creation work
Character creation happens before the session. After booking, you’ll receive a welcome message with everything you need — including links, tools, and character options. You’ll also be invited to our Discord server, where I’ll be available to answer questions, review your character, or even walk you through character creation step-by-step. Whether you’re new to D&D or just need a refresher, I’ve got you covered. Two options are available: 1. Use a Pre-Generated Character Perfect for beginners or players who just want to show up and play I provide pre-built Level 1 characters ready to go (Fighter, Rogue, Cleric, Wizard) 2. Create Your Own Character Level: 1 Stat Method: Point Buy or Standard Array We'll use the 2024 Ruleset No homebrew or 3rd-party content for this one-shot Characters will be created using D&D Beyond (free account required) I will provide a copy of the Basic Rules via Discord for anyone who needs it. You’ll get a link to the campaign on D&D Beyond and Discord invite after booking. I’m happy to schedule a quick voice or video call before the session to help with character creation if needed!
Players can expect
Combat / Tactics
Medium
Roleplay
Low
Puzzles
High
Experience level
Beginner
Platforms used
• Roll20
• Discord
• D&D Beyond
$18.00
/ Session
Each player will be charged when a session starts.
Details
Once / Sunday - 10:00 PM UTC
Apr 13
4-6 Hour Duration
0 / 5 Seats Filled
Requirements
Experience required: Beginner
Age: All Ages