Learn Call of Cthulhu - A Time to Harvest | Free Session 0 |

Creating your character

We will begin character creation during session 0. Depending on your experience I can either guide you through the entire process or use it as an opportunity for the group to discuss character options. You are then free to flesh out your characters further before we begin the campaign if you want to develop their backstory further. There will also be a number of pre-generated characters provided which can be used as written or used as a springboard for your own character if you prefer.

Preparing for the session

You will need an account on Alchemy where we will be playing the game. You can sign up for a free account on alchemyrpg.com if you don't already have one. I also provide a discord server so we have an easy place to discuss things between sessions if needed.

What Ravncrest brings to the table

I aim to create an immersive, atmospheric experience where the story and the characters are at the heart of the game. I use Alchemy to bring locations and NPCs to life, supported by ambient music, sound effects and visual handouts that make the world feel tangible. I generally favour theatre of the mind over tactical maps, although I occasionally use maps and illustrations as handouts for important locations, allowing players to focus on the unfolding story while using their own imagination to bring the world to life. Call of Cthulhu is renowned for its handouts, and I make regular use of letters, reports, newspaper clippings and other in-world documents. Rather than simply being told what your investigators discover, you'll have the opportunity to examine clues for yourselves and piece together the mystery. Player agency is extremely important to me. I enjoy giving players the freedom to explore, ask questions, follow their instincts and decide how their characters respond to the situations they encounter. I don't expect everyone to perform elaborate character voices, and I won't expect you to either. What matters is engaging with your character and the world in whatever way feels comfortable for you. Combat can be dangerous and is rarely the primary solution to a problem. I favour creative thinking, careful preparation and finding alternative approaches over tactical combat for its own sake. When violence does occur, I want it to feel meaningful and consequential. While I aim to know and apply the rules consistently, I also believe they should support the story rather than interrupt it. If an unusual situation arises, I'll make a fair and consistent ruling that keeps the game moving, and if needed, we'll clarify the finer details after the session. My priority is always to create a welcoming, engaging game where everyone has the opportunity to contribute and where your choices genuinely matter.

Homebrew rules

I don't use any major homebrew rules. I generally run Call of Cthulhu using the rules as written, with minor rulings made at the table where necessary to keep the game moving or resolve situations that aren't clearly covered by the rules. Any such rulings will be explained to the group, and I'll aim to apply them consistently throughout the campaign. My priority is to maintain the intended tone and feel of Call of Cthulhu while ensuring that the rules support the story and the players' enjoyment.

How Ravncrest creates a safe table

Player comfort is always more important than the game. We use Alchemy's anonymous safety tools, including Lines & Veils and the X Card, and you're always welcome to discuss boundaries privately with me before or during the campaign.