Icewind Dale: Rime of the Frostmaiden

Creating your character

I don't permit the use of Beyond20 in my games based on personal preference. Thank you! Character creation will happen during Session 0 with my aid available as needed! Everyone will start at level 1 and use Standard Arra. Additionally, we are using the 2014 rules with no plans to update to the 2024 ones. All characters will be made in Roll20 with a LARGE suggestion on using the charactermancer to assist with sheet coding issues as filling out the sheet manually often leads to errors or missed features. (This is essentially a request. Please just use the Charactermancer.) No homebrewed races or classes will be allowed at this time, and all of my sourcebooks are available to you so long as you understand that if you pick a character from Ebberon, for example, YOU are responsible for coming up with a good reason why they are now on the Sword Coast.

Preparing for the session

A Roll20 account and a Discord account, a PC to play it on (no mobile players at this time, apologies), and a better-than-fair quality microphone. Consider brainstorming what sort of characters you might be interested in playing and always have a backup. Always.

What Grim the Guildmaster brings to the table

A Pro Roll20 subscription, all four Rime of the Frostmaiden expansions released by the DMs Guild, dynamic lighting and animated effects when available, maps in full color, custom tokens, a full soundscape for every module we play, and rule of cool though I try and stick to the book (I have a medium memory 😜). I am tactical about combat and spend a LOT of time preparing and understanding the monsters or NPCS you are lined up to fight or speak to during any given session. This means YOU must also be tactical. Or you will die. While I won't tolerate rules arguing mid-session, you are always welcome to contest something after as I am not perfect and can get things wrong. More often than not, however, things are done for a reason and the only expectation is that you leave whatever my final ruling is at that.

Homebrew rules

- Potions can be used as an action for the full amount or as a bonus action and then requiring you to roll the dice. - Inspiration can be used for almost any purpose, can be shared amongst the other players, and can be used for a tip from me if you're stuck or really just want to make sure you get it right or find the things, etc. - I do not typically allow PvP behavior at the table. This extends to skill checks against other players. You can't roll Persuasion or Intimidation on them, as thats just someone trying to change the actual players point of view. In rare instances, where everyone agrees, there may be exceptions. This also goes for grappling without consent. If you think itd be 'funny for the story' ask if they agree, and if so, do a contest. Easy. - Stealth checks within 5ft. are at disadvantage - I will allow you to cast spells for your action and bonus action so long as you have the available action economy, including leveled spells. - Death saves must be rolled as Whisper.

How Grim the Guildmaster creates a safe table

Session 0 will include a group-wide vibe check, character creation, and if there's time, the very beginning of your campaign (the adventure hook). My DMs on Discord are always open and available to discuss things regarding your character, the session, the module, the setting; anything you need! I do have a small bladder and a large hunger so potty and snack breaks will be observed, but no more than one per session and for no longer than 10 minutes with an average of 5. There will be time after sessions to chat about how things went, what you liked or did not like about the session though if you prefer to provide that sort of feedback privately, my DMs will be open!