The Web of Shadows: A Cthulhu by Gaslight Mystery

Creating your character

Character creation will officially happen during Session 0 but we can have informal conversations beforehand so you have a good idea on who you're making before we get into the mechanics of it!

Preparing for the session

Players will need to have a mic of some sort, a computer with reliable internet, Discord, and an account on The Forge ( I can supply a link etc for this and talk you through the process if you've never used it before - it's free). Webcams are encouraged, but if you don't have one or would prefer not to use one that's okay. I also absolutely recommend having some way to take notes. My top suggestion would be to set up a Google Doc for these and then you can always add other players later to make the note taking more collaborative. But notes are important - I've lost count of the amount of times as a player I've missed something important because I didn't recognize the name of an important NPC! Once the game is up and running, I'll also set up a whatsapp group for everyone to keep tabs on scheduling, player absences, discussing shenanigans from the last sessions etc Most importantly, I am willing to teach rules from the ground up at Session 0!

What Phil brings to the table

I have all the information you'll need from the Cthulhu by Gaslight rulebook/player handbook. Via Foundry, I will provide maps for combat situations or exploration (where appropriate!) along with digital character sheets for dice rolling. Theatre of the mind will do for most other things! I'm also happy to help create an image of your character using some rather excellent AI software (if I could afford to have someone draw all your characters I would but needs must!) Most of all, though, I want to bring you a fun time. Hope to see you, and DM me for more details!

How Phil creates a safe table

Before we step into the fog-choked streets of 1890's England, we’ll begin with a Session 0, a relaxed, collaborative evening to build our group, our characters, and our understanding of the story ahead. This session is perfect for both newcomers and experienced players. What We’ll Do 1. Group Expectations & Play Style We’ll discuss what kind of experience you’re looking for: - Do you prefer investigation, suspense, action, or social drama? - Are you excited for creepy set-pieces or slow-burn tension? Together, we’ll define the tone and pacing that fits the table best. 2. Safety & Comfort Tools Horror can tread into unsettling territory. We’ll use: - Lines and Veils (to set content boundaries) - X-Card (for in-game comfort and control) - Open-door policy (step away at any time) My goal is immersive horror, not real discomfort. 3. Character Creation We’ll create your Investigators: - Choose backgrounds, motivations, and hidden secrets - Tie characters to each other and to the era. - Discuss skills, relationships, and potential fears No rule knowledge needed, everything will be explained as we go. 4. Setting Introduction You’ll get a primer on: - 1890s England: fog, superstition, and slow-burning dread 5. Final Questions & Planning We’ll wrap up by: - Answering any questions - Finalising character concepts - Scheduling our first full session What to Bring: - An open mind - A character concept (optional!) - A willingness to build something creepy and memorable together "What is not dead may eternally lie… but we begin with tea and a quiet chat." Looking forward to weaving horror with you, Your Keeper of Arcane Lore