Rise of the Runelords | Enhanced Anniversary Edition

Creating your character

We will hold a dedicated Session 0 to finalize our game system, establish the campaign setting, and build level 1 characters together. This session is your opportunity to ask questions, voice concerns, and ensure everyone is comfortable with the direction of the story. When it comes to rolling for stats, we will use a 6x6 grid system. You will fill the boxes from left to right, top to bottom, by rolling 4d6 for each entry. To ensure balanced and fun character potential, you will reroll all 1s, sum the highest three dice, and place the total into the grid. Or use the following Roll20 quick roll 6 times; [[4d6r<1kh3]] [[4d6r<1kh3]] [[4d6r<1kh3]] [[4d6r<1kh3]] [[4d6r<1kh3]] [[4d6r<1kh3]] Regarding character options, all third-party content is on the table, subject to the final system selection during our Session 0. Please keep in mind that the world of Golarion is reactive; your choice of race and class will have tangible effects on how NPCs perceive and interact with you throughout your journey.

Preparing for the session

Please of course, have a Startplaying account, also a Roll20 account (free with email), Discord(free with email)

What LordTank (Sebastian) brings to the table

Rise of the Runelords is my White Whale—the campaign I fell in love with years ago but have never had the chance to see through to its epic conclusion. Because of that, I've spent over 100 sessions running and refining it, learning where the Adventure Path truly shines and where it benefits from deeper character involvement and personal storytelling. Rather than simply running the book as written, I use my familiarity with the campaign to create an experience where every player feels like they belong in the story. Before Session 1, I'll work with you to develop a backstory that naturally ties into the world of Varisia. Throughout the campaign, you'll encounter NPCs, side quests, mysteries, rivals, and rewards created specifically with your character in mind. My goal is for every player to have moments where they are the hero of their own story while contributing to the party's larger adventure. As a GM, I lean heavily into immersive roleplay. I enjoy giving important NPCs distinct voices and personalities, using ambient music to set the mood, and describing the world in a way that makes it feel alive. Combat is tactical and rewarding, encouraging teamwork and creative problem-solving, but I also believe the Rule of Cool has its place. If you come up with a clever, cinematic idea that fits the moment, I'm happy to work with you to make it happen without sacrificing game balance. You can expect a healthy mix of roleplay, exploration, investigation, and meaningful combat. I stay true to the spirit of Pathfinder 1e while incorporating carefully crafted homebrew content that expands the Adventure Path instead of replacing it. Every addition is designed to enrich the story, not overshadow it. Above all, I want this campaign to be one you'll remember years from now. My goal isn't simply to help your characters save Varisia—it's to make sure their journey feels uniquely theirs.

Homebrew rules

I don't keep track of common ammunition (Legolas Rules) Anything goes; if you can explain it, you can roll for it

How LordTank (Sebastian) creates a safe table

Creating a fun, welcoming, and respectful table is my highest priority. Every player deserves to feel comfortable, heard, and excited to come back each week. Before the campaign begins, we'll hold a Session Zero to discuss character creation, expectations, table etiquette, and any topics players would prefer to avoid. This helps ensure everyone is on the same page before the adventure starts. I use safety tools, including Lines & Veils and an X-Card/Open Door Policy: Lines are topics that will not appear in the game. Veils are topics that may exist but will fade to black rather than be described in detail. If something at the table becomes uncomfortable, any player can pause or redirect the scene without needing to justify why. Harassment, discrimination, bullying, or behavior that makes other players feel unwelcome will not be tolerated. This includes disrespect based on race, ethnicity, nationality, religion, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, disability, or any other personal characteristic. Rise of the Runelords contains horror themes, cults, murder investigations, monsters, body horror, corruption, and other mature fantasy elements. These themes serve the story but will always be handled with respect for the comfort levels established during Session Zero. I encourage open communication throughout the campaign. If something isn't working for you—whether it's pacing, spotlight balance, character development, or a particular scene—please let me know. My goal is to create a collaborative experience where everyone has fun and every player has the opportunity to tell an unforgettable story. Above all, this table is built on mutual respect, teamwork, and the shared goal of creating an epic adventure together.