Stormwreck Isle: A Dragon's Call (5.5e)

Creating your character

Characters will start at Level 1. If you're new to D&D, don't worry, you don't need to know how to build a character on your own. I'll walk you through the process and help you make something you'll actually enjoy playing. Characters will be created in D&D Beyond, using the 2024/5.5e rules. We'll use the standard character creation options available through the books supported by the campaign, and I'll help you choose a class, background, species, and spells that fit the character you want to play. We'll aim to have characters ready before the first session, but I'll be available to help with character creation beforehand. If you'd rather jump straight into the adventure, I can also help you choose a pre-generated character. No previous D&D experience is required, I'll teach you what you need to know as we play.

Preparing for the session

How to Prepare Join the game's Discord server, we'll use Discord for voice chat and out-of-game communication. Create a free D&D Beyond account, we'll use D&D Beyond for character sheets and dice rolls. Create your character, I'll help you build a Level 1 character before the first session. You don't need any prior knowledge of D&D. Join the VTT, I'll provide the link and instructions before the first session. No complicated setup is required. Have a microphone and stable internet connection, a webcam is completely optional. Come ready to have fun! You don't need to study the rules beforehand. I'll explain anything you need during the game. I'll provide the maps, adventure materials, and everything else needed to play!

What Tom brings to the table

I'll provide everything you need to jump into D&D and enjoy the adventure without having to worry about preparing the game yourself. This includes digital maps, tokens, character sheets, handouts, and all the adventure materials you'll need. My games focus on storytelling, roleplay, exploration, and fun combat. I enjoy giving NPCs their own personalities and voices, while leaving plenty of room for players to shape the story through their choices. I'm happy to embrace the Rule of Cool when it makes a memorable moment, while keeping the rules clear and consistent. Most importantly, I'll be there to teach and support new players. If you don't know what a spell does, how an action works, or what you can do on your turn, just ask! There are no stupid questions, and I'll help you learn the game naturally as we play. You bring your character and imagination, I'll bring the adventure!!

Homebrew rules

This adventure uses the 2024 D&D rules largely as written, with only a few small adjustments made to keep the game fun and beginner-friendly. Rule of Cool: If you have a creative idea that isn't explicitly covered by the rules, I'm happy to work with you to make it happen when it makes sense. Rulings over rules-lawyering: I'll make quick, fair rulings during play and clarify the rule afterwards if needed. Beginner forgiveness: If you misunderstood an ability or made an accidental mistake because you're new to D&D, we'll work together to fix it rather than punishing you for something you didn't know. No complicated homebrew systems, the goal is to learn D&D by playing D&D!!

How Tom creates a safe table

Player comfort comes first at my table. Before the adventure begins, I'll make sure everyone knows how to communicate if something in the game makes them uncomfortable. I'll provide a Lines & Veils form so players can privately tell me about topics they don't want included or would prefer kept off-screen. During the game, players can pause, message me privately, or use our agreed-upon X, N, and O tools at any time. No explanation is ever required — if someone says they're uncomfortable, we'll immediately move on and handle it respectfully. I'll also check in with the group during and after sessions, particularly if we've played through an emotionally intense scene. The goal is to create a table where everyone feels comfortable participating, asking questions, making mistakes, and simply saying "no, I'd rather not do that." You never need to justify a safety boundary. Your comfort at the table matters more than the game.