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Anarian

he/him

5.0

(5)

Timezone

America/chicago

Language

English

Identity

Black
Veteran

About Anarian

Greetings, brave adventurers! My tale as a Dungeon Master begins not in a mythical land far away, but in a setting just as impactful—the camaraderie and challenges of a deployment. Amidst the trials, Dungeons & Dragons 5th Edition and Pathfinder 1st Edition became more than games; they were escapes into realms of endless possibility, where my buddies and I could explore, conquer, and create for 5-10 hours a day. The experience was transformative, turning ordinary days into extraordinary adventures. My journey started with a character that will forever hold a special place in my heart, symbolizing not just a role in a game, but a part of my identity. As time went on, the difficulty of finding games that matched the intensity and camaraderie of those deployment sessions led me to Roll20. There, I not only found new parties but also had the opportunity to bring them into the very first world I had ever explored as a player. This process was not just about gaming; it was a path to discovering more about myself and what I truly valued in these shared experiences. As your Dungeon Master, my deepest hope and joy lie in recreating that same sense of magic and discovery for others. I aim to guide you through stories that are more than just adventures—they are opportunities to explore yourselves, to build bonds that transcend the game, and to find joy in the shared creativity that tabletop RPGs offer. What sets me apart is not just my background or my passion for TTRPGs, but my commitment to capturing the essence of those first, unforgettable sessions. My style blends the immersive world-building of those early campaigns with the flexibility and innovation that comes from years of adapting stories for new parties online. I believe in creating a space where every decision matters, where every character can change the world, and where every player has the opportunity to find a bit of themselves in the adventure. If you're looking for a Dungeon Master who understands the power of TTRPGs to bring people together, create lasting memories, and reveal inner truths, then look no further. I invite you to join me at the table, where we can embark on a journey not just through fantastical landscapes, but also through the landscapes within ourselves. Let's create those unforgettable moments together. The adventure begins now, and I can't wait to see what magic we will discover together.

At a glance

1 year on StartPlaying

8 games hosted

Highly rated for: Creativity, Rule of Cool, Knows the Rules

Average response time: 24+ hours

Response rate: 100%

Featured Prompts

I got started GMing...

I got started GMing while on deployment in the Marine Corps. We played D&D 5e and Pathfinder 1E without knowing the rules or lore—it was pure chaos and connection. It became an unforgettable bonding experience, winging it for hours with my fellow Marines.

My favorite system of all Time is

Before 2024, I’d rave about PF1E’s depth and customization. But PF2E is a treasure—streamlined, balanced, and just fun. It keeps the tactical richness without bogging down play. If you haven’t tried it yet, you’re sleeping on one of the best-designed TTRPGs out there.

When I'm not running games I'm...

Running a business! I help investors buy apartments and assisted living facilities. I network often and love helping people grow their portfolios, increase their net worth, and create lasting impact. Real estate is my game when I’m not behind the GM screen.

How Anarian runs games

Adventurers, seekers of lore, and champions of the dice, lend me your ears! If you're on the hunt for a game where every session is a gateway to another world, you've found your beacon. My GM style is a tapestry woven from the very threads of my experiences—both on and off the table. Roleplay-Driven Journeys: At the heart of my table lies the art of roleplay. Expect to delve deep into your character's psyche, breathe life into their hopes, fears, and dreams, and watch as they evolve through trials, triumphs, and the occasional tavern mishap. I champion character voices, encouraging players to find and embody their unique tones. Don't worry if you're new to this or if accents aren't your forte; all that matters is the leap of faith into your character's boots. Tactical Combat With A Twist: For those who revel in the clang of swords and the strategic dance of battle, you'll find yourself at home. My sessions blend the crunch of tactical combat with the unpredictability of a narrative-driven world. Expect battles that challenge not just your character's might but also your minds. Each encounter is designed to be memorable, pushing you to think creatively, work as a team, and maybe, just maybe, turn the tide with a well-placed spell or a daring maneuver. A World Alive: Inspired by my first steps into a realm crafted by my deployment buddies, I create worlds that breathe, change, and grow with your stories. Cities evolve, NPCs remember your deeds, and the very fabric of the universe may shift with your choices. Your actions have weight, lending a sense of permanence and consequence to our shared narrative. Collaborative Storytelling: While I guide the story, the pen is in our hands together. I see my role as a facilitator of your epic, a narrator to your hero's journey, and a listener to your character's aspirations. Your ideas, backstories, and decisions are the stars that guide our adventure. Expect a game where your voice matters, shaping the world in ways both seen and unseen. Inclusivity at the Fore: My table is a haven, a place where everyone is welcome and every story is celebrated. I believe in creating a space that respects all players, encouraging a game that is as diverse and inclusive as the worlds we explore. Adaptability: Just as I adapted from the deserts of deployment to the digital realms of Roll20, I adapt our sessions to suit you, the players. Whether you seek a campaign rich with political intrigue, a saga of exploration and discovery, or a story of personal growth and redemption, I'm here to make it happen. If you're yearning for a game where your actions shape the world, where your character's story is interwoven with a grander narrative, and where every session promises a blend of heart-pounding action and heartfelt roleplay, then I invite you to reach out. Together, let's turn the page to your next great adventure.

Featured Prompts

My favorite trope is...

My favorite trope? The hero’s journey—starting from nothing and leveling up through life. I love watching growth from level 1 to 100. Bonus points for the old master trope: the peak-of-his-world legend who just wants to fish in peace. Peak storytelling every time.

Rules are...

Rules are a fantastic guideline—but sometimes they’re ambiguous or limiting. You can’t account for everything, so creativity matters. It’s okay to break a rule or lean on the rule of cool. Rules spark fun debates, not rigid boundaries. They serve the story, not the other way around.

Anarian's games