Whispers in the Dark Curse of Strahd 5E (A New Story Long Term)

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 No race restrictions as long as its in WOTC. You can make your character on DND beyond. Homebrew if I get to look at it and approve it.

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. New animated maps, spells, monsters, and items! There will also be some new weapons, armor from Grim hallow as well as new rules from that set. There is also new systems and new rules I will be adding to into the game as well as monsters and new NPCS!

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. Character death is a very real threat, especially at early levels. I don’t pull punches — the dice decide your fate. The world comes alive when danger is unpredictable: some encounters will be easy… others nearly impossible. Knowing when to fight and when to run is a vital skill for any true adventurer. My goal is to get your adrenaline pumping, to make every choice and every battle feel real and intense. In Barovia, survival isn’t guaranteed — it’s earned. 🩸⚔️🕯️