Lost Mine of Phandelver- Beginner Friendly Mix of RP and Combat

Creating your character

Character creation will take place during Session 0, so we can build the party together and make sure everyone fits the tone and story of the game. I do ask that you come prepared with 2–3 character ideas, nothing fully finalized, just concepts you’re excited about. We’ll use that session to collaborate, connect backstories, and shape a party that feels cohesive and fun to play. All characters will begin at Level 1. For stats, you’ll have the choice between standard array, point buy, or rolling for stats during Session 0 (we’ll do any rolling together to keep things fair). The goal is to give you flexibility while keeping everyone on relatively even footing. You’re welcome to use any officially published classes, subclasses, and races. Homebrew content is allowed with DM approval, as long as it fits the tone and balance of the game. If you’re unsure about something, just ask. I’m happy to work with you to make your idea work. We’ll create characters using whatever tools you’re most comfortable with (pen-and-paper, D&D Beyond, etc.). If you’re new, don’t worry, I’ll walk you through the entire process step by step so you can focus on building a character you’re excited to play.

Preparing for the session

We’ll be playing online using Roll20 as our virtual tabletop and Discord for voice chat. Cameras are completely optional—feel free to have yours on or off—but a working microphone is required so everyone can communicate clearly during the game. If you’re interested in joining, add me on Discord at Chuckthegm, and I’ll share all the necessary links and get you set up!

What Chuck the GM brings to the table

As your GM, my goal is to create a game that feels immersive, collaborative, and memorable. I’ll provide a fully prepared experience through Roll20, including maps, tokens, handouts, and visual aids to bring the world to life. I also use Discord to incorporate ambient music and soundscapes during sessions, whether it’s the quiet crackle of a campfire or the tension of an approaching ambush, I like to build atmosphere wherever possible. Roleplay is a big part of my style, and I use character voices and distinct mannerisms to help NPCs feel unique and engaging. I encourage players to lean into roleplay as much or as little as they’re comfortable, there’s no pressure, just opportunities to get invested in the story and your character. Combat in my games is dynamic and meaningful. I enjoy tactical encounters that reward teamwork and creative thinking, but I don’t run combat as a pure numbers exercise. Expect enemies with motivations, environments that matter, and moments where strategy can turn the tide. At the same time, I embrace the Rule of Cool, if you come up with something clever, cinematic, or just plain awesome, I’m always open to bending the rules to make the moment shine. Above all, I aim for a player-driven experience. Your choices will shape the story, the world will react to your actions, and your characters will have real impact. I’ll bring structure, energy, and a living world, but the story belongs to all of us.

Homebrew rules

Maximum + Rolled (Perkins Crit): Instead of doubling dice, you deal maximum damage + roll the dice once + modifiers. Example: A longsword (1d8+3) crit deals .

How Chuck the GM creates a safe table

Creating a safe, respectful, and comfortable table is a top priority for me. Before the campaign begins, I’ll share a Lines and Veils document so everyone can clearly communicate boundaries. This will be sent out ahead of Session 0, and we’ll review it together to make sure all players feel heard and respected. No one is required to explain their boundaries, just setting them is enough. During Session 0, we’ll go over expectations for tone, table etiquette, and player comfort. We’ll also talk about how to handle sensitive content, inter-party conflict, and communication styles so that everyone is on the same page from the start. For in-game safety tools, I use a simple X, N, & O system, which can be done in whatever way feels easiest for you—typing in chat (via Discord or Roll20), sending me a private message, or just saying it out loud. X = Stop the scene immediately N = Something is heading in an uncomfortable direction O = You’re okay and things can continue I’ll always respect these signals without question or pressure to explain. Aftercare is also important. At the end of sessions—especially heavier ones—I like to do a quick check-in to see how everyone is feeling, what they enjoyed, and if anything made them uncomfortable. If needed, I’m always available after the game for private conversations as well. At the table, respect is non-negotiable. This is a collaborative space where everyone should feel welcome, included, and able to enjoy the game.