Spider

he/they

5.0

(8)

Timezone

America/los Angeles

Language

English

About Spider

I’ve been running tabletop RPGs for 30 years, starting with AD&D and continuing through every major edition of Dungeons & Dragons, alongside systems like Call of Cthulhu, Shadowrun, World of Darkness, Traveller, and more. Across that time, I’ve learned what makes a campaign work long-term: consistent pacing, meaningful character integration, and a table where players feel comfortable engaging both roleplay and tactical play. My games are structured, well-prepared, and run at a steady pace. I enjoy doing character voices, building immersive NPCs, and weaving player backstories directly into the world and plot. While I appreciate tactical combat, I prioritize storytelling, momentum, and keeping the table engaged over strict optimization or rules-lawyering.

At a glance

2 years on StartPlaying

22 games hosted

Highly rated for: Sets the Mood, Voices, Knows the Rules

Average response time: Under 1 hour

Response rate: 100%

Featured Prompts

I got started GMing...

Nearly 30 years ago. I purchased my first D&D product (The Ruins of Undermountain II box) and read it a bajillion times before actually sitting down at a table and running a game. I started with AD&D (brother's friend had a few old books he leant me), and have DMed every iteration of D&D since.

My 3 systems I'd bring to a desert island would be

D&D 5e, Warhammer 40K: Dark Heresy, and Shadowrun.

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

Preparing for games! And hanging with my wife and two kitties.

How Spider runs games

I run structured, well-prepared campaigns that balance roleplay, exploration, and tactical combat. I enjoy bringing NPCs to life with distinct voices and personality, and I use music and visuals when they enhance immersion. My games tend to lean slightly tactical in combat, but always remain story-driven and character-focused. Players can expect a steady pace, clear direction, and a strong sense of continuity from session to session.

Featured Prompts

I deal with rules issues by...

Clarifying intent quickly, checking RAW when necessary, and making consistent rulings that keep the game moving without long debates.

My games focus on...

Long-term, story-driven campaigns where character choices matter. Expect a balance of roleplay, exploration, and tactical combat with steady pacing and clear progression.

Rules are...

A framework for fair and consistent play. I run Rules as Written when possible, but prioritize flow, table enjoyment, and story momentum when needed.

Spider's ideal table

My table is friendly, collaborative, and focused on enjoying the story together. I prefer a light-hearted atmosphere, even in darker or grim settings, where players can engage seriously with the world without taking themselves too seriously. Players who share the spotlight, support each other, and engage with the story will fit in well here.

Featured Prompts

I love it when a player

Engages with the world, develops their character over time, supports other players’ spotlight moments, and helps shape the shared story.

I think metagaming...

Is best minimized for immersion, but small practical adjustments are fine if they help the game flow and keep the table moving smoothly.

My table is not the place for...

My table is not the place for disruptive behavior, rules-lawyering that slows the game, antagonistic play against other players, or people who refuse to engage collaboratively with the story. Respect for fellow players and the shared story is required.