DRAGON DELVES: Secrets of Redwood Watch (Learn to Play D&D!)

Creating your character

We will begin with a dedicated Session 0 to walk through expectations, tone, player safety, party ties, and character creation together. Platform & Access: All characters will be built and maintained on D&D Beyond. Before Session 0, you will receive a campaign join link granting you shared access to all of my unlocked digital sourcebooks. Ruleset: We will be using the updated D&D 5.5e (2024 Core Rules). Starting Level: Characters will start at Level 1 for this campaign. Ability Scores: We will use Standard Array (15, 14, 13, 12, 10, 8) to keep things balanced, fast, and fair across the party.

Preparing for the session

To make this as beginner-friendly and accessible as possible, there is no complicated software to download or tricky virtual tabletop to learn. Before game day, you will just need a free D&D Beyond account to access your character sheet, digital dice, and all of our shared rulebook resources. We will also be using Maps in D&D Beyond to view our tactical battle maps and explore encounters—it is already built right into our campaign, so there is nothing new to install, and it is very intuitive and easy to learn. Additionally, you will need a Google account (Gmail and Google Docs) to join our video call and view any shared handouts or safety tool documents. We will meet directly over Google Meet, with the meeting link provided in your game details prior to the session. As for your setup, all you need is a reliable internet connection, a computer or tablet, and a working microphone and headphones or speakers so we can hear and talk with each other clearly—webcams are always welcome, but entirely optional. That’s all—bring an open mind, and get ready to roll!

What DM Aris brings to the table

As your Game Master, I provide a patient, encouraging, and low-stress environment designed to make learning D&D as fun and accessible as possible. You’ll get full access to my shared D&D Beyond, along with safety tools in place before and during our game to ensure everyone feels safe and respected. At my table, I prioritize the Rule of Cool and collaborative storytelling over rigid Rules as Written. While we use the rules as a supportive framework, my priority is player agency and making your creative ideas come to life. As an educator, my style centers on guiding and empowering you through every dice roll and decision without judgment. Expect a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere, supportive guidance, and an emphasis on shared fun over tactical grinds!

Homebrew rules

To keep gameplay fluid and cinematic, I use a few straightforward house rules: Quick Potions & Weapon Swaps: Drinking a potion or switching weapons in combat only takes a Bonus Action. No Weight Tracking: We don’t track Encumbrance or Coin Weight—carry what makes sense without doing extra math. Rule of Cool & Respect: I love rewarding creative ideas over rigid rules, but I ask that players respect final DM rulings to keep the game fun and moving forward. Teamwork First (No PvP & Stick Together): PvP (player versus player) combat, theft, or antagonism is strictly off the table. We also avoid splitting the party to keep everyone involved and the momentum rolling. In-Character Immersion (Avoid Metagaming): Make decisions based on what your hero knows, senses, and feels in the story rather than out-of-game stat blocks, monster manuals, or mechanics talk. Keep the focus on your character's perspective to let the suspense and discoveries shine!

How DM Aris creates a safe table

Player safety and mutual respect are foundational at my table, and I make sure everyone feels supported from start to finish. Before game day, I share the Monte Cook RPG Consent Checklist so players can privately establish their comfort levels, which we will review alongside table guidelines and expectations during our Session Zero. During gameplay, we actively use the X-Card—playable at any moment by typing "X" in chat, saying it aloud, or showing a sign on camera to edit or skip content with no questions asked. I expect everyone to treat each other with kindness and high respect, ensuring our shared space remains welcoming, fun, and relaxing for all!