📕Save the Borderlands

Creating your character

SESSION 0: We will build and finalize characters together during Session 0. No preparation is required, but if you want to brainstorm beforehand, here is what you need to know. Come with ideas, but stay flexible. Feel free to think about who your character might be, but hold off on locking anything in. Session 0 is where we come together as a group to build characters collaboratively. Your ideas may shift as you hear what others bring to the table, and that is part of the fun. RULES: We will use D&D Beyond with the 2024 D&D ruleset. Please stick to core rulebook options for all character options. All characters start at Level 1. BACKSTORY: Keep it simple. Your hero is just beginning their journey, so focus on humble beginnings. If you would like to start thinking about your backstory, use the three questions below as a guide. Just remember to stay flexible. 1. Where is your character coming from? 2. What was that like for them? 3. How and why did that lead them to help "save the borderlands?" A few ground rules: - Limit backstories to 150 words or less. - Your character should have little to no combat or adventure experience. Reputation should be limited and local. - Please do not establish plot hooks, describe major past events, or explain larger world lore. - Your character's memories should be intact. Everyone's character should remember at least the events of their own life.

Preparing for the session

DISCORD: I will send a server invite after you join the campaign. We will use Discord for voice/video chat. D&D BEYOND: Please create a free account if you do not have one. I will provide a campaign link during Session 0, which will give you full access to my library of official books and third-party content. We will use D&D Beyond for digital character sheets and the Maps VTT for gameplay. Feel free to check them out ahead of time, though I will cover everything during Session 0 and our sessions moving forward. All dice rolls will be public for everyone to see. CHARACTER IDEAS: Feel free to browse the rules and character options in D&D Beyond to gather ideas. Explore different species, classes, and backgrounds to see what sparks your interest. Most importantly, stay flexible. Do not lock anything in. Session 0 is where we build characters together as a group, and your ideas may shift as you hear what others bring to the table. That is part of the fun. HARDWARE: Please ensure you have a stable internet connection, a working microphone, headphones to prevent echo, and a webcam. The webcam is optional but highly recommended, as it significantly improves communication and cuts down on cross talk. NO AI: Please avoid using AI for character art and backstories. I am happy to help and provide alternatives if you need assistance.

What Drew DiSario brings to the table

INTEGRATED PLAY: Use digital character sheets fully synced with the Maps VTT for seamless dice rolls and tactical combat. PREMIUM AUDIO: Experience the game through a boosted Discord server with professional audio equipment, immersive music/ambiance from Kenku FM, and real-time voice modulation for NPCs.

Homebrew rules

POTIONS OF HEALING: Drinking a potion yourself is a Bonus Action (roll the dice) or a Full Action for maximum healing. Administering a potion to an unconscious ally is always an Action and uses the rolled value. INSPIRATION: When you spend Inspiration, you may reroll any d20 after seeing the result. You then choose which of the two rolls to use. RULE OF COOL: Creative and narrative-driven ideas are always encouraged. If the rules don't clearly cover your ingenious plan, I'll make a fair, fast ruling to keep the game moving and fun.

How Drew DiSario creates a safe table

Pre-Game Confidential Check-In: Upon joining, you will receive an optional, confidential Google Form to privately share your Lines, Veils, and any other preferences to help me tailor the experience for everyone's comfort. Session 0 & Ongoing Check-Ins: We will begin with a Session 0 to establish expectations and group norms. At the start of each session, we'll briefly check in and anonymously review any established boundaries to ensure a clear and supportive environment for all. Tools During Play: Breaks are always available. You can signal me at any time, either verbally or via a private message, if something is uncomfortable. I will adjust the scene immediately without question. Aftercare & Feedback: Following each game, I will stay for an optional debrief. This can be a casual chat or a structured "Stars and Wishes" session to share favorite moments and suggestions. Your feedback is essential and directly helps me create better games.