The Tragedy of Strahd von Zarovich

Creating your character

We will meet to discuss character creation during a free session zero. We will be using D&D 5e, both the 2014 and 2024 rules. In general, if something exists in both versions, I prefer you use the more recent version from the 2024 rules. The 2014 rules are included so that you have access to the subclasses, backgrounds, and certain spells not present in the new version. I am open to you building your D&D 5e character however you'd like, so long as you use DnDBeyond so that I can view your characters as needed during my prep time between sessions. I will provide a DnDBeyond campaign link that will give you access to all of the material I have purchased. Also available for this game will be the Artificer class, as well as the Partnered Content of MCDM and Mage Hand Press which introduces the Illrigger class and the Gunslinger class respectively. During our session zero, we will discuss some specifics for the homebrew world of Din and work to fit your characters snuggly into it.

Preparing for the session

You will need free accounts on Discord and DnDBeyond to participate. You do not need an account for Owlbear Rodeo. I will be tracking the character sheets via DnDBeyond. You do not need a paid membership, nor do you need to purchase any materials from their website, so long as you use the campaign link I provide. You do, however, need a DnDBeyond basic account. For our maps, I will use Owlbear Rodeo, though I lean heavily toward roleplaying and puzzles more so than combat. You do not need an account for Owlbear Rodeo.

What Cas brings to the table

I am a big fan of character voices! I embrace the Rule of Cool as needed, but rely on the rules as written for a guideline that we can all abide by more often than not. I offer ambient music when the table agrees (some players are too distracted by music playing). The biggest thing I offer is my time. I will give to you as much as you give to me. If you write a two-page backstory, I will read it, and I will mine it for all the juicy bits to inform your character's story.

Homebrew rules

The only two standout homebrew rules I utilize are maximized dice during a critical hit and Table Inspiration. Automatic Maximized Dice: When you score a critical hit, you double all appropriate dice as normal. You then automatically maximize one die before rolling. EXAMPLE: If you score a critical hit with a Greatsword, you would double the base 2d6 weapon dice to 4d6, roll them, and add your Strength modifier. With my rule, you would automatically maximize 1d6, then roll the remaining 3d6 as normal. Table Inspiration: In addition to individual Heroic Inspiration, the table has Table Inspiration. When it is available to the table, it allows players to treat any failed d20 roll as a success. Once used, the Table Inspiration then shifts to the DM's favor. While in the DM's favor, it can be used to give an enemy an additional reaction, restore one use of its Legendary Resistance, or grant a creature the Disengage action for its turn. Once it is used by the DM, the Table Inspiration then shifts back to the player's favor.

How Cas creates a safe table

I have a document that I provide for all players to fill out prior to session zero. There is also a space on this document to give any relevant information that you want to convey but don't want to discuss openly. All other information will be talked about at session zero. I will also touch base with all players after every session to ensure everyone is feeling good about the game. X, N, and O's will be directed to me digitally via private message on Discord, which I monitor during sessions. Any additional questions or concerns can be brought to me at any time, in or out of session, and I will work with you to address them. Your fun, happiness, and safety are my top priority as a DM!