Rise of The Vampires (Homebrew War in Barovia twist)

Creating your character

The journey into Barovia and into the heart of a war between ancient monsters begins with you. Before we step into the mists, here’s what you need to know to create your character and prepare for Session One Starting Level All characters will begin at Level 3. You've already seen a little of the world, had time to grow into your class, and maybe even carry a few scars. You're not green anymore you're capable enough to survive... for now. Rolling for Stats Stats will be decided the old-fashioned way: roll for them. In the discord will have a standard for rolling the dice. Character Creation All characters will be created on my D&D Beyond campaign page. You’ll receive a link to join once in, you’ll have access to my collection of sourcebooks, including races, classes, subclasses, feats, spells, and more. Everything you need is unlocked and ready. Homebrew is welcomed but must be approved first.

Preparing for the session

We will use foundry for our games so nothing on your end all characters will be imported through DND beyond. Just have a discord and a Mic. Webcam Optional.

What Jacob brings to the table

Stepping into my game means stepping into a story-driven, atmospheric, and emotionally rich campaign with moments of cinematic flair, intense combat, and personal stakes. Here's what you can expect from me as your GM, and the kind of game I run. I absolutely use character voices. Expect everything from eerie whispers and tragic nobles to unhinged cultists and charming liars. I bring major NPCs to life with tone, personality, and intent. You don’t need to be an actor — but if you want to speak in character, I’m all in. If you prefer describing actions or dialogue, that’s great too. I’ll meet you where you are. I use ambient music and curated soundtracks to heighten the mood. Expect haunting atmospheres in Barovia, chilling tones in dungeons, tense war drums in battle, and soft piano for those quiet, human moments. I don’t overdo it music is there to enhance, not distract. Combat is tactical, intense, and consequential. I reward smart positioning, teamwork, and creative thinking. Enemies use the terrain, set ambushes, and fight with purpose especially Lilith’s forces, who are organized and brutal. This isn't a grind, though every combat has narrative weight. You won’t fight for the sake of XP. When swords are drawn, lives and plots are on the line.

Homebrew rules

Some of my homebrew rules include: Potions It is a bonus action to swig a potion Critical Hits Critical hits cause the damage on the dice to be doubled instead of rolling extra dice Critical failures and Critical Successes If a roll results in a natural 1, it is considered a failure. On the other hand, if the roll is a natural 20, it is always a success and may also have additional benefits, which are determined by me. Death Saves Death saving throws are done privately Stealth Outside Combat Players make (Dexterity) Stealth rolls only when someone is in a position to see them or look for them.

How Jacob creates a safe table

I’ll send a private survey or document link (Google Form or Word doc) for players to mark their Lines (hard limits) and Veils (soft limits). Feedback will be compiled anonymously; only the combined list will be shared with the group. Players can update their boundaries at any time by messaging me privately. 🛡️ Safety Tools Lines = Hard limits; these themes will not appear in the game at all. Veils = Soft limits; themes may exist but will fade to black or be handled off-screen. Open-Door Policy = You’re free to step away or pause a scene if needed. Roleplaying Consent Form= There will be a form I would like you to fill out that will give me a clear understanding on what exactly your lines and veils are so I can tailor your experience. 💬 Aftercare Quick debrief at the end of each session (1–2 minutes per person to check in). Private follow-up if something didn’t sit right or needs retconning. Celebrate wins & decompress with out-of-character chat before ending the session. 📝 Player Input Share the themes you’re excited to explore (tragic romance, morally gray choices, gothic mystery). Request specific tone, style, or pacing preferences.