Echoes Beneath Phandalin

Creating your character

Come in with an idea, not a full-fledged character. Character creation will begin at the end of Session 0, where we’ll first decide on the ability score array to use for all players. You are welcome to complete your character during that time, or after Session 0 to give you more time to think. All characters will start at level 3 and receive one free, common magical item that is non-combat based. Most official 5e sourcebooks are allowed, except for Eberron and Spelljammer. If you’re unsure whether a source or item is allowed, just ask me! I maintain a curated list of homebrew content, such as subclasses and races, on D&D Beyond and Foundry, any other homebrew materials must be approved by me prior to use. Characters will also receive one free starting feat chosen from a curated list. Multiclassing is permitted, and some variant rules will be incorporated to enhance gameplay. Feel free to write as much or as little backstory as you like, the more you provide, the richer your character’s connection to the world and the party can become. Party composition is entirely up to you and the group’s preferences. Whether you want a classic balanced party with tanks, healers, and rogues or a more unconventional group, we’ll make it work.

Preparing for the session

Discord Account and App - If you do not already have one, create a Discord account and download the app for voice chat during the games. - A halfway decent microphone is non negotiable. I strongly dislike any excessive background noise or horrible microphone quality. - I'd also recommend headphones or earbuds for the same reasons above, voices or music echoing through someone's microphone isn't fun for anyone. FoundryVTT - No account needed here! I will setup the game before each session. You will use Foundry for all dice rolling, character sheet tracking, and in game interaction. - A semi-decent computer is recommended for running Foundry as some things can get quite intensive. I will provide some tips and documentation for setting Foundry up and optimizing it. - A decent and stable internet connection is required.

What EchoVG brings to the table

I strive to bring the world to life through immersive storytelling and a balanced mix of roleplay and combat. You can expect me to (attempt to) use character voices and accents to help make NPCs memorable and engaging. Ambient music as well as battlemaps and theater of the mind visuals will help set the mood so you feel fully drawn into the adventure as it's unfolding! Combat flows between tactical depth and cinematic flair, I enjoy highlighting the exciting and memorable moments while keeping the action flowing when it's more straightforward. The game runs mostly rules as written, but I'm always happy to embrace the rule of cool when you come up with creative solutions or outside the box ideaa that make the story or your character shine. I love when players get creative! The moments of improv and unexpected solutions are some of the best in any game. The tone will be a rough 60% serious to keep the stakes high and 40% lighthearted fun to let everyone breathe and laugh. I try to to read the room and know when to shift gears between drama and humor, and would ask you do the same.

Homebrew rules

I use a few but the most interesting in my opinion are: Crunchy Crits: A max roll of the initial dice plus an extra roll as normal adds significantly more weight and "oomf!" behind those natural 20's! Fading Spirits: Your resurrections will become increasingly difficult the more times you are brought back from death. Potion Options: You can either use a full action to drink a healing potion to gain its maximum effects, or use a bonus action and roll the dice, literally, instead.

How EchoVG creates a safe table

Making sure everyone is comfortable is a top priority. During session 0 I will send out a google form containing questions about your Lines and Veils to help me see what content you'd prefer to avoid or only have alluded to, so I can tailor the game to keep everything enjoyable for all. Expectation around respect and collaboration will be discussed during session 0, basically "Don't be a jerk." Be respectful, and speak up if something doesn't feel right. I encourage everyone to communicate freely and openly, and I'll check in frequently to make sure the game remains fun. During the game, we will use verbal X Cards as a quick way to pause or pivot if any content become uncomfortable. If that happens, just say "X Card" and we'll adjust immediately. We also include a short break in the middle of each session for bio breaks and to help everyone recharge and stay focused. Outside of game time, I’m always available for open messaging if you want to talk about anything related to the game or the experience.