The Pit of Despair: Descend to the Shadowdark!

Creating your character

We will use the Shadowdark "Rules as Written" method for creating character, Rolling for stats directly (no choosing which roll goes to which stat), and deciding which class and ancestry fit them. Character background can be chosen or rolled for. One exception is, level 1 characters starts with full HP (hit points). If any of this is confusing, fear not, we will handle character creation at "session 0". Players could also choose from pre-generated characters if they so prefer. I'm also adding to links below, one for the free Shadowdark starter set PDF (you don't need to read it beforehand, only if you are curious), and to Shadowdarklings, a website that lets you create shadowdark characters according to the rules, very easily Also worth mentioning, Shadowdark is dark and lethal, so there is a chance that characters will die. In that case we will have backup characters (pre-generated by me), so even in case your character dies, you the player, will quickly resume playing a new character ----- Links Below ----- 1. Free Shadowdark starter set: https://www.thearcanelibrary.com/products/shadowdark-rpg-quickstart-set-pdf?srsltid=AfmBOor-MbeAROMUYfo8pYwAs7pve6vKWHFqiltCC4mGiVlgX13Fbnbi 2. Shadowdarklings: https://shadowdarklings.net/ All character creation questions will be resolved at Session 0

Preparing for the session

Discord account is key. I will share my server address with you once you book the game. We will also use a VTT (virtual tabletop website) for dice rolling and battle maps. I am also fine with more theatre of the mind and just screen-sharing, the map and or "handouts" from time to time. I'd rather see what the majority of players is leaning towards, In any case it's not an issue.

What David Silberstein brings to the table

The entire campaign is home-brew I designed, and ran successfully in the past. Original tokens for all characters, if we end up choosing to use a VTT. Several NPCs of different nature and characters, with different voices. There are lots of originally designed handouts (will not share more to avoid spoilers) Carefully selected ambient music tracks for combat, drama, resting, victory, etc.

Homebrew rules

If you're a beginner and none of these terms mean anything to you - just ignore this section, we can discuss this at session zero. Trying to light a torch in total darkness is always at DISADV Firing ranged weapons at close/melee range is at DISADV Moving through an enemy requires an opposed roll of STR/DEX - Each side can choose which stats they want to use A character may forego their attack / action in a combat round in order to distract a foe engaged with an ally, providing that ally with an ADV for that round (not to all allies). This does not require a roll, but the character needs to describe exactly how they do that. If a combat or encounter seems to be stuck in a rut due to a series of bad rolls, I may elect to declare "momentum mode" temporarily (ADV on repeated failed attempts and exploding damage dice) until encounter/combat end. Casters may attempt to tweak adjust spell effects, using an Int/Wis (Wiz/Pri) roll during casting. I set the DC based on how big the tweak is. Failure might also fail entire spell. Not intended to make low tier spell produce effects of high tier spell. Example: reduce/increase the angle of Burning hand by 5 degrees; Light spell at a specific color; Invisibility except for my boots; etc.

How David Silberstein creates a safe table

Session 0: setting expectations, lines and veils In sessions: X / N / O Cards; Open Door Aftercare: Stars & Wishes