Horror on the Orient Express

Creating your character

We’ll put our characters together during Session Zero, most likely using the point-buy system from page 60 of the Investigator’s Handbook. For this campaign, certain types of characters work best on the Orient Express: dilettantes, doctors, academics, detectives, writers, journalists, and other curious folks who have a real reason to poke at strange events. Lower-class characters are totally fine too—they usually fit best as assistants, retainers, or protégés to the more well-off investigators. Criminal or villain-type characters don’t really fit here—the story relies on a group that works together, not a bunch of lone wolves chasing their own agendas. The same goes for characters who don’t want to investigate or engage with the mystery, and joke or gimmick characters won’t match the tone of the campaign. Really, I have two simple rules: 1. Be cool—treat your fellow players with respect. 2. Make a character who is actually driven to investigate. If you’re excited to follow clues, chase down leads, and uncover some creepy truths together, you’ll be right at home.

Preparing for the session

Before the first session, players should: 1. Create accounts on Roll20 and Discord—these platforms will be used for gameplay and communication. 2. Ensure you have a decent microphone for clear discussion and roleplaying.

What Brian B. brings to the table

As your GM, I try to keep things immersive and engaging without getting bogged down in strict historical detail. Combat is all theater of the mind, keeping the tension high and the pacing smooth rather than getting bogged down in grids or heavy tactics. I generally lean toward the Rule of Cool, so if you have a clever idea or a dramatic moment in mind, I’m usually happy to roll with it. I aim for good pacing, solid drama, and just enough humor to break the tension when it’s needed. Overall, you can expect a game that leans into roleplay, investigation, and collaborative storytelling. The Orient Express is packed with intrigue, mystery, and ancient horrors, and my goal is to guide you through a suspenseful journey where your choices genuinely matter.

How Brian B. creates a safe table

Player safety and comfort are really important to me. We’ll use Lines and Veils to set clear boundaries about what’s okay and what isn’t, and we’ll also use X, N, & O cards—you can just message me at any point if something feels off, needs a pause, or is totally fine to continue. My goal is to deliver suspense and horror in a way that’s fun and engaging, never uncomfortable. That said, this is a horror game with adult themes, so expect tension, scares, and some mature content. We’ll go over everyone’s boundaries and expectations during Session 0, and I’ll check in from time to time to make sure things still feel good for the group. Open communication is welcome and encouraged—I want this to be a safe, supportive table where everyone can enjoy the ride.