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DM Mike

DM Mike (he/him)

LGBTQ+
Neurodivergent

Less than a year on StartPlaying

About me

Hey everyone! I'm Mike, and I'm really excited to share my love for tabletop games with all of you! My journey into the world of TTRPGs began in 2014 when I played my first game of D&D. I stepped in as a substitute player and got to play a Dragonborn Paladin, and I was instantly hooked! Over the past 10+ years, I’ve explored various games, and around 2018, I dove into the OSR (Old School Renaissance) scene. Recently, I’ve been enjoying some "modern" systems like 5e and Pathfinder 2e, along with other cool games such as Old-School Essentials, Mörk Borg, Knave 1e, Maze Rats, Tunnel Goons, Dungeon Crawl Classics, Zweihander, and more! I have a strong affinity for the Basic/Expert family of games (like B/X and BECMI) because they resonate with that classic Old-School vibe. I’ve run several games in that style and had a fantastic time as a player in various campaigns too. Lately, I've developed a renewed appreciation for 5e; I enjoy its story-driven and intricate elements, especially since I was initially critical of it. I've come to recognize the value of both styles of play! I enjoy seeing my players get invested in the setting, their characters, and each other's characters. I do my best to weave whatever backstory you've given me into the narrative of the game. I love the collaboration among the whole party when it comes to developing characters. I tend to balance Rules-as-Written with a Rule-of-Cool approach. I strive to keep my rulings concise and consistent so players have a reliable understanding of what they can and can't do in the game. However, I won’t let that stop someone from trying something creative, especially if it fits their character or the situation at hand. With over a decade of wargaming and TTRPG experience behind me, I’m eager to run games and create amazing stories with fellow enthusiasts! Let’s connect and have some fun!

GM Style

When it comes to playing any TTRPG, there is nothing more important than having a GM who makes the game enjoyable for everyone involved. I strive to be supportive of all my players' ideas and to create an environment where they feel comfortable and welcome. I aim to keep things fair, usually rolling in the open, and I make an effort to give each player their time in the spotlight. My favorite aspect of GMing is seeing how the players create characters within the world I've described. It brings me immense joy to witness a party of characters that fit naturally into the setting and interact well with each other. I want everyone to showcase their character's uniqueness, talents, and flaws. This keeps me invested and gives me more reason to tailor the story to align with the interests and preferences of the players and their characters, regardless of whether we are using a pre-made module or something I've crafted from scratch. That being said, I always keep the rules in mind. Normally, I try to adhere to them as written (RAW) and do not adjust them too much. I have no issues tweaking the rules if necessary, but I strive to be consistent. The last thing I want is for a player to end up in a dangerous or awkward situation due to a misunderstanding of how I adjudicate a rule based on a previous experience. If a health potion works one way for one character, it will work that way for everyone else going forward 99% of the time. I have a passion for storytelling, whether through roleplay or mechanical means. That being said, I am not perfect; I’m not the best at doing voices or coming up with names on the fly. I strive to do my best, and all I can ask of my players is that they make an effort to put themselves out there in order to enjoy the game. Can’t do a voice for your character? No worries! Not super knowledgeable about combat and need to ask for suggestions? Ask away! Don’t like to roleplay in the first person? Do it in a way that’s comfortable for you! I believe in being welcoming to all types of people and do not tolerate discrimination of any kind at my table. As long as you are respectful and willing to try, I’m open to everyone, regardless of their past TTRPG experience!

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