D&D 5e One-Shot | Project Cottontail | Beginner-Friendly

Creating your character

This one-shot is designed for 5th-level characters. Please have your character fully created before the session begins, including stats, abilities, and equipment, to ensure gameplay starts on time. Characters can be set up in Roll20 or another platform. If your character is not in Roll20, please send a DM link or PDF of your sheet 1–2 hours before the session so it can be reviewed. Additionally, provide a token or image to represent your character in-game. Ability scores may be assigned using the standard array, rolling 4d6 dropping the lowest, or following the D&D 2024 Player’s Handbook rules. Homebrew options are allowed, but all must be approved by the DM beforehand to ensure balance. If you are a new player and need assistance, contact the DM in advance to avoid delays. Modern Military / Tech Flavor Guidelines: This game is set in a modern / near-future military operation with a horror twist. While all standard D&D races are allowed (humans, elves, tieflings, etc.), players should flavor their character to fit a modern setting. Examples include: military personnel, special ops, ex-lab subjects, scientists, engineers, or survival specialists. Creative interpretations are encouraged as long as they fit the tone of the mission. Equipment & Spells: Equipment should be flavored for a modern-day setting. Torches → flashlights, ropes → climbing gear, armor → tactical vests, shields → riot shields, etc. Spells should be flavored as science or tech-based gadgets. Examples: Fireball → grenade or rocket launcher Lightning → taser or experimental energy gun Healing → medkit or stim pack Dissonant Whispers → neural disruptor, fear-inducing device Players may design attachments or modifications for weapons and gear, but must stay within reasonable power limits to maintain balance. Gameplay Considerations: Characters will be operating in exploration-heavy, suspenseful, combat-driven scenarios. As such, choose abilities, equipment, and spells that are versatile for investigation, combat, and survival in a dark, high-stakes environment. Tactical thinking and creativity are encouraged!

Preparing for the session

Before the Game: Setup Checklist Accounts & Platforms Discord: A free account is required for voice chat, communication, and session coordination. Please ensure your microphone works and you are in a quiet environment. Roll20: A free account is required for your character sheet, maps, and game interactions. Character Sheet & Token Preparation Please have your character sheet fully completed before the session. If your character is not created in Roll20, send a link or PDF of your sheet to the DM in advance so it can be reviewed. Character Image: Send an image of your character via Discord when signing up. This will be used to create your token for maps. You may provide your own token if preferred. Equipment & Environment A working microphone is required. Play in a quiet space free of distractions to maintain immersion and smooth game flow. Optional but recommended: headphones for clearer audio and better focus. Other Recommendations Ensure a stable internet connection to avoid disruptions. If you’re new to Roll20 or Discord, log in a few minutes early to test your setup and familiarize yourself with the tools.

What Samantha B. brings to the table

I strive to create an immersive and engaging experience where the story comes alive through visuals, sound, and interactive storytelling. I use vivid images, maps, and digital handouts to help you visualize locations, clues, and important objects, allowing you to interact directly with the world. Ambient music and sound effects enhance mood, build tension, and make scenes feel alive, whether subtle background noise or dramatic cues. All NPCs have distinct personalities and voices, making interactions memorable and easy to follow. Combat and encounters use tokens on battle maps, and I embrace the “rule of cool”, encouraging creative solutions and rewarding clever ideas. My table style is laid-back and flexible, focused on keeping the game fun while maintaining engagement. I value clear communication and transparency, keeping players informed about rules, expectations, and story developments. I am punctual and reliable, so sessions start on time, and you can count on a smooth, organized experience. Players can expect a mix of strategic gameplay, immersive storytelling, and interactive problem-solving, all in an environment designed for enjoyment and collaboration. My goal is for everyone to feel included, have fun, and walk away with a memorable adventure.

Homebrew rules

Critical Hits: When you score a critical hit, deal maximum damage plus a regular damage roll. Weapons: Switching between weapons is a free action, allowing for smooth combat flow. Chases & Travel: I use streamlined, custom rules to make travel and chase sequences exciting without slowing the game down. Skill Challenges: Custom skill challenges are used to create dynamic, story-driven obstacles. Rules will be explained in-game as needed. Tone & Flexibility: Rules are tools for fun and story, not obstacles. I prioritize enjoyment and narrative, and will adapt or clarify mechanics on the fly to keep the game flowing.

How Samantha B. creates a safe table

I prioritize creating a safe and comfortable space for all players. Communication is always open—players are welcome to reach out to me before, during, or after the session to discuss any concerns. During the game, I include regular breaks of 10–15 minutes, and I’m happy to extend or add more if needed to ensure everyone stays comfortable and engaged. Before the session begins, I go over rules, expectations, and boundaries, including a Lines and Veils document to set limits for sensitive content. X, N, & O signals can be used digitally (messaged or shown on video) to communicate boundaries during play. After the session, there will be a debrief/check-in to see how everyone is feeling and to provide any needed aftercare, giving space to process intense scenes or discuss anything that came up during the game.My goal is to foster a trusting and open environment where everyone can enjoy the story, engage fully with the adventure, and feel safe exploring the game.