Coriolis: The Great Dark — Flowers of Algorab

Creating your character

Character creation will take place together during Session 0, before the campaign begins. You do not need to prepare anything in advance or have prior experience with Coriolis. I will guide the group step by step through the process and explain the setting and rules as we go. Characters are created using the Coriolis: The Great Dark core rules, following the standard process. We will work through origins, professions, attributes, talents, and starting equipment together, with time for questions and discussion. The goal is to create capable, grounded characters who fit naturally into the expedition and have reasons to work together. All characters begin as experienced professionals, not novices. You are assumed to be trusted explorers, specialists, or operatives selected for an official expedition. There is no need to optimize or master the rules. Strong concepts, clear motivations, and teamwork matter far more than mechanical precision. Character sheets will be created during Session 0 using Roll20 and shared tools we will use during play. You are welcome to think about a character idea ahead of time, but it is not required. I am happy to help translate concepts into mechanics during the session. If you are new to Coriolis or tabletop roleplaying, this process is designed to be welcoming and low pressure. Rules explanations focus on what you need to play confidently. Pregenerated characters are available on request for anyone who wants to jump straight into the campaign.

Preparing for the session

Before the game begins, you will need a few basic things set up. I will provide clear instructions and links after you sign up. You will need a Discord account for voice communication. A stable internet connection and a working microphone are required. A webcam is optional. We will use Roll20 for character sheets and shared visuals. Roll20 runs in your web browser and does not require any software downloads or purchases. You will receive an invitation link and a brief walkthrough before Session 0. If you are new to Roll20, I will explain the basics during our first session. No prior system knowledge or preparation is required. You do not need to read the rulebook or campaign material in advance, and I ask that players avoid GM-only sections to prevent spoilers. Before Session 0, please: • Confirm your availability and audio setup • Review any short notes or links I share • Come ready to create a character and ask questions If you have questions about setup, accessibility, or comfort, feel free to reach out ahead of time. My goal is to make joining the game as smooth and stress-free as possible.

What Michael brings to the table

I run thoughtful, character-driven games that emphasize atmosphere, clarity, and meaningful choice. My focus is on creating situations where players understand what is happening, why it matters, and what is at stake, then giving the group space to decide how to proceed. You can expect strong scene framing, consistent pacing, and a campaign that keeps moving forward without feeling rushed. Investigation, discussion, and player decisions are central to play. I make sure everyone has room to contribute, whether through roleplay, problem-solving, or decisive action. I use descriptive narration and distinct NPC personalities to bring the setting to life. I do not rely heavily on character voices, but I aim for NPCs to feel recognizable and grounded. Ambient music and sound are used sparingly to support mood and tension without becoming distracting. Combat is present but purposeful. Encounters are designed to matter narratively and mechanically rather than appearing constantly. When combat does occur, it is tense and consequential, not tactical for its own sake. Rules are handled with an emphasis on clarity and fairness. I teach the system as we play and make rulings transparent. I follow the rules as written where they support tension and consistency, and I am comfortable making sensible rulings in the moment to keep the game flowing. The goal is a smooth experience that rewards good ideas, teamwork, and thoughtful decisions rather than system mastery. Overall, my aim is to run a welcoming table with a strong sense of momentum, where players feel comfortable engaging with the story, asking questions, and shaping the direction of the campaign together.

Homebrew rules

This campaign uses the Coriolis rules largely as written. Any adjustments are light and focused on clarity, pacing, and group decision-making rather than mechanical complexity. I may make situational rulings to keep scenes moving smoothly or to resolve edge cases that are not clearly covered by the rules. These rulings will be explained at the table and applied consistently. If any optional rules or small adjustments are introduced during play, they will be discussed in advance and only used if the group is comfortable with them. The goal is to support the story and player choices, not to surprise anyone with unexpected mechanics.

How Michael creates a safe table

Player comfort and trust are central to the game. We will establish shared expectations early and maintain an environment where everyone feels comfortable participating. We will begin with a Session 0 to align on tone, boundaries, and play style. During this session, we will review Lines and Veils together to identify topics that should be avoided or handled carefully. Players may update or clarify their boundaries at any time, either openly or privately. We will use X, N, and O cards, handled through chat or voice, to quickly signal discomfort, uncertainty, or that everything is going well. These tools allow the game to pause or adjust without requiring anyone to explain themselves in the moment. Breaks will be built into longer sessions, and an open-door policy is always in effect. Any player may step away at any time, no explanation required. At the end of sessions, we will use Stars and Wishes to share what worked well and what players would like to see more or less of going forward. This helps the game stay enjoyable, responsive, and collaborative over the course of the campaign. The goal is a table where players feel safe engaging with the story, asking questions, and trusting that their comfort will always be respected.