New Heroes, Ancient Secrets

Creating your character

Character creation takes place during a free Session 0 using Foundry VTT. New and experienced players are welcome, and I'll guide you through the entire process if needed. Characters begin at Level 1. Ability scores are rolled using 2d6+6 for each stat. To ensure all characters are capable adventurers, rerolls are permitted if the overall result is significantly below average. Character options are available from the Tales of the Valiant Player's Guide 1 and 2. Links and resources will be provided after joining the game. Starting equipment, features, and class abilities are taken as normal from your chosen class and background. I use a few quality-of-life house rules, including maximum hit points gained at each level and additional starting hit points based on lineage. These adjustments help characters feel heroic and durable throughout the adventure. Players interested in exclusive content may choose from several optional playtest classes, including the Performer (inspired by the Dancer job from Final Fantasy Tactics), the Gunslinger, and the Chemist. Players who help test these classes receive a 5% discount on future games. Players who choose a custom subclass in future adventures receive a 2% discount on future games.

Preparing for the session

To participate in this game, you'll need: • A computer or laptop with a modern web browser • A stable internet connection • A microphone for voice chat • A Discord account The game is run using Foundry VTT and Discord. Due to technical limitations, phones are not supported. Some larger tablets may work, but a computer or laptop is strongly recommended for the best experience. No Foundry VTT experience is required. After joining the game, you'll receive an invitation to a private Discord server dedicated to your group. This server will be used for voice chat, game discussion, session recaps, and between-session communication. You'll also receive access to the Tales of the Valiant Player's Guide resources. Before Session 0, I recommend browsing the available Lineages, Backgrounds, and Classes so you can begin thinking about your character concept. Don't worry if you're new to the system, character creation and any questions will be fully covered during our free Session 0.

What Andrew -Goblin GM- brings to the table

My games combine structured adventure storytelling with strong player-driven improvisation, creating a table where your choices genuinely shape how the story unfolds. I run prewritten adventures as a foundation, but I actively adapt scenes, encounters, and story direction based on player interests and decisions. If the group pulls the story in an unexpected direction, the world responds accordingly. Sometimes staying close to the written material, and other times evolving into fully player-driven narrative arcs. You can expect character voices, ambient music, and atmospheric effects through Foundry VTT to bring the world to life. Tone shifts naturally between serious and lighthearted depending on the scene, allowing moments of tension, humor, and heroism to emerge naturally. Combat ranges from straightforward encounters to tactical battles that feature terrain, hazards, and environmental opportunities. Creative problem-solving is encouraged, and player ideas are often the driving force behind how challenges are resolved, there is hardly a one “correct” solution. I actively support all playstyles and make a point to highlight each character’s strengths during play. Whether that means traps and hidden secrets for the rogue, powerful foes for the warrior, divine challenges for the cleric or paladin, or narrative spotlight moments tied to your backstory, every character will have a chance to shine. Above all, I aim to create a collaborative table where player goals, characters, and story direction naturally intertwine into a shared adventure.

Homebrew rules

I use a small set of house rules to support heroic gameplay, smoother pacing, and more cinematic moments at the table. • Hit Points: Characters gain maximum hit points at every level. In addition, characters receive bonus hit points based on lineage to help reinforce heroic durability. • Healing Potions: Out of combat, healing potions restore the maximum possible value automatically. In combat, drinking a potion requires an action to gain maximum healing, or a bonus action to roll for healing. • Luck Points: In addition to the luck point mechanics in Tales of the Valiant. Luck points may be spent to influence enemy actions and saves. When a player has 3 or more Luck points, they may spend all current Luck points to impose disadvantage on a creature's roll. This represents a surge of dramatic fortune turning the tide of battle.

How Andrew -Goblin GM- creates a safe table

Player safety and comfort are a top priority at my table. I use established tabletop safety tools to ensure everyone can enjoy the game in a respectful and supportive environment. Before the game begins, I review my Lines and Veils for all players to understand. We will go over this together during Session 0 to make sure everyone is comfortable with the themes and content of the campaign, and to clearly establish any boundaries or topics to avoid. We use X, N, and O signals throughout play, which can be communicated verbally or through Discord chat. These allow players to easily indicate when they are comfortable continuing, need a scene to pause or adjust, or are fully at their limit. Breaks are available at any time, whether for a short pause, regrouping, or stepping away from the table as needed. Aftercare is also provided at the end of sessions to check in with players, decompress from intense scenes, and ensure everyone leaves the game in a good headspace. Session 0 is the primary space where expectations, tone, and safety preferences are discussed in detail, ensuring the game is tailored to the comfort level of the entire group. I have an open door policy so you can help me understand your limits and what you're comfortable with. At any time you can reach out to me so I can adjust the game on the fly to ensure your safety.