Operation: Blackvault
You’re a fantasy mercenary company sent deep into hostile territory. The mission is simple — until something in the dark starts hunting you.
$12.00
/ Session
Details
Weekly / Sunday - 1:00 PM UTC
Session Duration / 3–4 hours
Campaign Length / 8–10 Sessions
1 / 6 Seats Filled
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About the adventure
WATCH THE TRAILER! https://youtu.be/7HI1oxumjDw Operation: Blackvault is a high-intensity D&D 5e campaign inspired by Predator-style military action, reimagined in a dark fantasy world. The players take on the role of a seasoned mercenary company sent deep into hostile territory on a dangerous extraction mission. Steel replaces firearms, magic replaces technology — but the job is the same: move fast, hit hard, and get out alive. This is a short-form campaign built around a series of escalating combat operations designed to test the party’s tactics, coordination, and adaptability. Encounters are dynamic and cinematic, making full use of terrain, enemies that hunt and reposition, and situations that reward smart play over brute force. While combat is a major focus, there is plenty of room for roleplay between missions as the characters plan, argue, bond, and decide how far they’re willing to go to complete the contract. Players will portray capable, battle-hardened professionals — not disposable soldiers, but heroes forged by conflict. The tone is tense and dangerous without being hopeless, and while character death is possible, success comes from teamwork, preparation, and knowing when to push forward or fall back. This game rewards players who enjoy tactical combat, clear objectives, and roleplay under pressure. As the mission spirals beyond its original scope, the party will face a threat that was never meant to be confronted. Will you survive the terror unleashed by the Blackvault?
Game style
Rule of Cool (RoC)
Combat Heavy
Game themes
Meet the Game Master
1 year on StartPlaying
Highly rated for: Storytelling, World Builder, Creativity
Average response time: 3 hours
Response rate: 100%
About me
From the moment I discovered D&D, I knew I wanted to be a Game Master. I love creating immersive worlds filled with mystery, intrigue, and meaningful choices—and then collaborating with players to bring those worlds to life. For me, the most exciting moments at the table happen when characters are pushed beyond the obvious solution and players discover who their characters truly are when faced with difficult decisions. My games are driven by story and character, with a strong focus on roleplay, social dynamics, and player agency. I enjoy crafting scenarios where choices matter, relationships evolve, and the world responds authentically to the party’s actions. Combat is present and purposeful, but it always serves the narrative rather than existing for its own sake. Above all, I aim to create a welcoming, respectful table where players feel comfortable taking creative risks, engaging deeply with the story, and investing in their characters. If you’re looking for a GM who values collaboration, narrative depth, and memorable moments, I’d love to have you at my table.
View Profile →Character creation
Creating your character
We will be running a session 0 too create characters and to create the mercencary company as a whole. Stats are standard array. Players can use the 2014 PHB Xanathars guide to everything, Tashas and Ebbron rising from the last war.
What to expect
Preparing for the session
We will we using Discord for Voice and you will need to make an account on https://forge-vtt.com/ to access the game.
What Ink & Iron brings to the table
I provide a prepared, organised game experience that prioritises player agency, immersion, and momentum. Sessions are structured with clear goals and meaningful choices, while still leaving room for improvisation and unexpected player decisions to shape the story. I use ambient music and sound where it enhances the tone — especially during combat, exploration, and tense scenes — but never in a way that distracts from play. I do make an effort to use character voices and distinct speech patterns for NPCs, focusing on clarity and personality rather than perfect accents, to help bring the world to life. Combat in my games is dynamic and tactical. Encounters are designed with terrain, enemy behaviour, and narrative stakes in mind rather than simple “stand and trade blows” fights. Smart positioning, teamwork, and creative thinking are rewarded, and combat is always intended to serve the story rather than exist in isolation. When it comes to rules, I aim for a balance between consistency and flexibility. I’m comfortable making quick rulings to keep the game moving and generally lean toward the rule of cool when it creates a better moment at the table, while still maintaining fairness and internal logic. Rules discussions are always welcome, but I prioritise pacing during sessions. Above all, I respect my players’ time and investment. I come to sessions prepared, communicate clearly, and work to create a table environment that is focused, collaborative, and welcoming — whether you’re a long-time player or completely new to D&D.
Homebrew rules
Potions are full heal if used as and action roll if used as a bonus action. Death Saves are between the player and the GM to add tension and pressure. Flanking will be used in this game.
Equipment needed to play
Internet
Computer
Microphone
Platforms used
Safety
How Ink & Iron creates a safe table
Lines and veils are discussed in session 0 but can be revisited at any time. My main safety tool is "pause for a minute" anyone can call a pause to the game to raise an issue with the group or me personally.
Content warnings
Safety tools used