Waterdeep: Dungeon of the Mad Mage | Updated for 2024

Creating your character

Character creation begins before Session 0, with final touches completed between Session 0 and Session 1. We’ll use Session 0 to discuss character concepts, integrate them into the world, and establish party dynamics. We’re using D&D 5e 2024 rules for character creation, starting at 5th level with normal starting equipment, plus an uncommon magic item tied to your character's history. We will use a modified array for stats (16, 15, 14, 12, 10, 8). Characters will be built on D&D Beyond and imported into Foundry VTT for play. All official D&D content is available, with the exception of Spelljammer, which falls a bit outside the world we're playing in. If a player option has not been updated for 2024, feel free to use the 2014 version.

Preparing for the session

We will be using Forge VTT for our Virtual Tabletop and Discord for voice chat. So make sure you have an account for both. Last but not least, make sure to make a D&DBeyond account for creating your characters. A decent mic is preferred and I will be on camera during session, but it is not required by any means!

What Ethan Huffman brings to the table

My extensive D&D Beyond library is at your service, and I'm happy to acquire any additional content you need to bring your perfect character to life. Our adventures unfold in the immersive environment of Foundry VTT, where detailed battle maps bring each location to stunning life, all enhanced by carefully curated ambient soundscapes that transport us directly into the world. As a DM I love to I cultivate those magical moments where breaking the rules feels special precisely because we respect them the rest of the time. Every bend in the rules is earned, making those cinematic moments all the more memorable.

Homebrew rules

Perishable Inspiration. I will be giving out an inspiration to the party for doing the weekly recap, however, this is to be used in that same session. Other inspiration will act as normal. Healing potions as an action. You can choose to use a full action to drink a healing potion to gain the full amount of hit points back instead of rolling. Administering one to someone else is an action, but is still rolled. Flanking! +2 to hit in melee if you have an ally on the opposite side of the creature you’re intending to hit. Friendly Fire Free Movement. Moving through an allied creature's space does not count as difficult terrain. Pushed Skill Check. If you fail a skill check but truly desire to pass it, you can push it. This lets you roll again, however if you fail something could go wrong. I am open to any other homebrew rules that folks would like to incorporate!

How Ethan Huffman creates a safe table

Session 0 is a great time to ask questions, get comfortable, and get to know each other before the adventure begins. We will go over homebrew rules, lines and veils, the consent checklist, and anything else you want to talk through together. That said, my door is always open before and after sessions too, so never hesitate to reach out. Every session includes a 15 minute break around the halfway point for a quick breather. We will also close each session with Stars and Wishes, so there is always space to share what is working and what you would love to see more of.