3.5 D&D - The First Campaign

Creating your character

Characters will be created before the joining the session, either independently or with one-on-one support via text chat or voice. For ability scores, Characters use the 4d6 drop lowest method, or 32 point-buy if the rolls aren't satisfactory. The main sources are the Player’s Handbook and Core Rulebooks (PHB, DMG, MM) as our foundation, but all official 3.5e material is fair game on a case-by-case basis. Except for the classes Incarnate, Binder, and Truenamer which rely on alternative magic systems. Level adjustments are allowed, up to a +3 bonus, and may be broken up into level-ups at specific intervals, benefitting from the LA Buy-off rules from Unearthed Arcana. While the VTT has character sheets, the use of an online record is recommended. I suggest the online sheet from the Myth-Weavers website, or simply a Google Doc. Whatever works best for you.

Preparing for the session

Before we begin, here is what you need to get set up: - A free account on Discord: We will use Discord for voice chat and session coordination. You'll get the invite to the game’s private server once you sign up. - Foundry VTT: We’ll be using Fantasy Grounds for maps, tokens, and dice rolls. Instructions and links to join the game can be accessed on the game's Discord. - Character creation: As soon as you join feel free to roll your stats in the "Dice Tower" channel. I can help you build and review your character before your first session. - Bring your curiosity and questions: no prior experience with 3.5e is needed, I can guide you through everything you need to know. - Bonus Points: Players who read pages 133 to 168 from the PHB (35 pages) "Chapter 8: Combat" and "Chapter 9: Adventuring", will have a much easier time playing, including veterans. And Spellcasters will benefit from reading "Chapter 10: Magic", pages 169 to 180, as well.

What Carlos C. Cox brings to the table

As your Dungeon Master, I’ll guide you through the legendary 3.5 edition of Dungeons & Dragons . I provide: - A full campaign arc from level 4 to 20 using the first ten published 3.5e adventures. - Beginner-friendly onboarding, including character creation help and rules explanations. - Immersive storytelling with descriptions, character voices, and a living world that reacts to your choices. - Tactical combat that rewards teamwork, creativity, and smart positioning. It is perfect for players who enjoy strategy. - Fair rulings that balance the spirit of the rules with the Rule of Cool. Fun and story always come first. - A welcoming, inclusive space where questions are encouraged and everyone has a chance to shine. - I also use ambient music and visual aids to enhance immersion, and I’m always happy to adapt to your play style. The game will follow the official rules (which includes DM fiat), however, general house rule tweaks are offered according to collective consent. DM ruling is primary and final, as normal.

Homebrew rules

Alternate Optional and House rules in play: - Retraining (PHB2) - Level Adjustment Buy-off (UA) - 2 Flaws (UA) - 2 Traits - 1 free Regional and 1 free Racial starting feat - Lv Up HP: When levelling up, players roll the character's hit-die once, and if rolling under half the average rounded up, the character gets that number instead. - Teamwork Benefit: characters and their companions can form teams to learn Teamwork Benefits at level up. - Weapon Groups: Class based weapon proficiencies are granted normally (feats for weapon group proficiency will NOT be used) Feats specific to a single weapon (i.e. Weapon Focus) apply to the weapon group it belongs to, instead of only that weapon - No XP penalty for multiclassing - Negative HP: the amount of negative HP characters can have before dying equals 10 + half Constitution score - Careful Healing: when a character at negative HP regains HP out of encounter turns, they are restored to 0 and add the regained HP. And by taking at least a minute per healing, dice of healing get a minimum result of half (rounded up). Please, check the rest in the "House Rules Channel" as soon as you join.

How Carlos C. Cox creates a safe table

- The Lines and Veils document and the Safety and Consent form will be used ahead of time as replacement for the "session 0" format, which tends to stunt games and doesn't account for players who join later anyway. A quick conversation at the beginning of the game will still be held. - The 1st session of a player is always a sort of "audition" to see if they are a good fit for the group and the campaign. - X, N, & O's can be whispered through the VTT to ensure privacy and responsiveness. - "Pause for a minute", "Can we Rewind?" or "How about a Fast Forward?" can also be suggested at anytime privately. - Everyone can take a step back at anytime if they feel the need, without fear of discussion or judgement by others at the table. - After a session the players may be asked to recall their favorite moments. - A "comments and suggestions" form will be made available at least once each month to record wishes players may have for the game.