Beyond the Void: A Dark Matter One-Shot

Creating your character

Characters will be created before the session, as this is a one-shot designed to jump straight into play. All characters will begin at Level 6. Ability scores will use the standard array, characters start with maximum hit points for all levels, and each character may select one uncommon magic item. This game uses D&D 5e rules. The Dark Matter book is a 5e supplement, adding new subclasses and setting options rather than replacing core mechanics. Players may use either the 2014 or 2024 edition of D&D 5e. I will provide access to the Dark Matter PDF for anyone interested in using its subclasses or features. Characters can be created in D&D Beyond or a similar tool, and I’m always happy to help with concepts, rules questions, or final checks—especially for newer players.

Preparing for the session

To play in this one-shot, players will need: A Discord account for voice and out-of-game communication Access to Owlbear Rodeo, which will be used for maps and visual aids (no download required) Links to the Discord server and Owlbear room will be provided before the session. No additional software, subscriptions, or prior setup is needed beyond having your character ready ahead of time. If you’ve never used Owlbear before, don’t worry—it’s simple and I’ll guide you through everything at the start of the session.

What Skyybunny brings to the table

I run cinematic, story-first games where the goal is to have fun, feel immersed, and tell a cool story together. I love vivid descriptions, memorable NPCs, and giving players space to make choices that actually matter. This is the kind of game where your character gets moments to shine, not just roll dice. I use ambient music to help set the mood and I’ll do some character voices when it feels right (never required from players). Combat is there when it makes sense, and it’s meant to feel fast, exciting, and cinematic, not slow or overly tactical. If you enjoy clever plans, dramatic moments, and creative problem-solving, you’ll fit right in. I lean toward the Rule of Cool while still keeping the game grounded in the rules. If you have a fun idea, I’ll usually try to make it work rather than shut it down. New players are always welcome—I’m happy to explain things as we go and make sure everyone feels comfortable jumping in. Most importantly, I aim to create a relaxed, inclusive table where people can show up, be themselves, and enjoy a few hours of space-fantasy chaos together.

Homebrew rules

Homebrew Rules: These homebrew rules apply to all of my campaigns and are designed to keep the game cinematic, tense, and fun without bogging things down. Potions: -Drinking a potion yourself is a bonus action -Feeding a potion to someone else is a full action -If you take a full action to drink a potion, you regain maximum healing Critical Hits: -On a critical hit, damage is maximum dice + rolled dice -Crits are meant to feel impactful and dangerous—on both sides Death Saves: -Death saving throws are rolled privately between the player and the DM -This keeps tension high and prevents accidental metagaming Initiative Twist: -Rolling a natural 20 on initiative lets you choose turn order positioning for yourself among the party Carry Weight: -I don’t track carry weight unless things get silly -Be reasonable (no, you cannot fit four swords in your pocket) Spell Components & Ammunition: -I don’t track spell components or ammunition (unless it is a specific type) Desperate Casting: -You may cast a spell using a spell slot you have access to but have already expended -Doing so deals 1d12 necrotic damage per spell level (this damage cannot be reduced) -You also gain levels of exhaustion equal to the spell’s level, up to 6th-level spells -This is dangerous, dramatic, and very much a last resort

How Skyybunny creates a safe table

Player safety is a top priority, and we’ll establish clear boundaries before the game begins. Player comfort and safety are a priority at my table. Before each one-shot, players will receive a Lines and Veils document to review and fill out ahead of time. This covers content that is off-limits (Lines), content that may appear in a limited or off-screen way (Veils), and content that is fully acceptable. At the start of the session, we’ll briefly review boundaries and address any questions to ensure everyone is comfortable with the game’s themes. During play, we’ll use both physical and digital safety tools, including X/N/O indicators and an X-card (or equivalent), allowing anyone to pause or redirect content quickly and without explanation. These tools are always respected, no questions asked. After each one-shot, I’ll do a check-in—either briefly as a group or privately if preferred—to make sure everyone is feeling okay. If anything intense or difficult comes up during the session, I provide space for aftercare and debriefing, whether immediately after the game or later via private message. My goal is to create games that are immersive, engaging, and fun, while also being respectful, inclusive, and safe for everyone at the table.