Michael (he/him)
5.0
(7)
Less than a year on StartPlaying
Highly rated for: Knows the Rules, Inclusive, Creativity
About me
I’m a storyteller at heart and a worldbuilder by trade — literally! I’m a published freelance writer for Pathfinder 1e, and I bring that same creative energy into every game I run. Whether I’m expanding on a published setting or crafting a universe from scratch, I love giving players a world that feels alive, textured, and ready to explore. My tables lean narrative-first, with a focus on character, story, and meaningful choices — but don’t worry, I can run a crunchy, tactical combat with the best of them when the system calls for it (and I actually enjoy it!). I run regular campaigns both in-person and online, and I love welcoming new players and helping them find their groove, whether it’s their first session or their hundredth. I’m a system polyglot with a passion for variety. Right now, I’m deep into Forged in the Dark games, Spire, Call of Cthulhu, and Delta Green, but I’ve got deep roots in old-school D&D and both Pathfinder 1e and 2e. If you’re looking for a GM who’s excited to tell great stories, teach the game, and help your character shine, you’ve found your seat at the table. Let’s play.
GM Style
I’m a storyteller at heart and a worldbuilder by trade — literally! I’m a published freelance writer for Pathfinder 1e, and I bring that same creative energy into every game I run. Whether I’m expanding on a published setting or crafting a universe from scratch, I love giving players a world that feels alive, textured, and ready to explore. My tables lean narrative-first, with a focus on character, story, and meaningful choices — but don’t worry, I can run a crunchy, tactical combat with the best of them when the system calls for it (and I actually enjoy it!). I run regular campaigns both in-person and online, and I love welcoming new players and helping them find their groove, whether it’s their first session or their hundredth. I’m a system polyglot with a passion for variety. Right now, I’m deep into Forged in the Dark games, Spire, Call of Cthulhu, and Delta Green, but I’ve got deep roots in old-school D&D and both Pathfinder 1e and 2e. If you’re looking for a GM who’s excited to tell great stories, teach the game, and help your character shine, you’ve found your seat at the table. Let’s play.
Games played
Game platforms used
Michael's Games
Game Master Reviews (7)
Proficiencies
Players say this GM is great at:
Knows the Rules
Inclusive
Creativity
Dave I
New review
A great GM. Runs a smooth game, know his material and game rules and does everything he can to give the player an awesome gaming experience. Always enjoyed my games at his table.
Beverly
New review
I've played in games Michael has GMed for years. He is quite friendly and extremely easy to get along with. He is always prepared for the adventure to be run, allowing for both standard tactics or creative solutions from his players. Michael puts a lot of effort to making his games fair for everyone. He will adjudicate the rules fairly regarding gray areas. He will never use unfair tactics to wipe the party, nor will he fudge die rolls to keep the party alive. If he rolls a crit with max damage, it's going to hurt! tldr: I highly recommend Michael
Naren Prasad
New review
I have gamed with Michael for over a decade in both organized play, conventions and home games. He truly loves the art of gaming and providing a memorable and positive experience! Michael inspired me to be a better GM and player. Most highly recommend!
Firusie
Michael is a great GM. He is fair and has a good knowledge of the rules and a true passion for gaming. He has run games of Pathfinder, Symborum. Liminal, Traveler, Spire, Court of Blades, Blades in the Dark, and probably many others I am forgetting and it has always been a fun time.
aralsum
I've been playing with Michael across various systems and campaigns for over 10 years now, I believe. I've always found him to be incredibly fair, very knowledgeable about the rules, easy-going, great sense of humor, and an incredible story teller! Definitely can't wait to game with him again ASAP! :)
Michael Arrendale
Michael is the best GM I have ever played with and it's not even close. Many of my favorite gaming moments over the years have been at his table and he's made me both a better player and GM. Michael is skilled at thinking on his feet when an adventure inevitably goes sideways and strikes a great balance of humor and seriousness depending on the situation. Most importantly, he cares about every game that he runs and every player at his table. It particularly shows in the preparation he does for each session, far more than I'm used to from others. I really can't say enough great things about him!
What's StartPlaying?
Tabletop Roleplaying Games Run by Game Masters
Find a game to join solo or search for a professional game master for you and your friends/coworkers/family.
Book your session and wait for the Game Master to approve you.
If you don't have a blast with your first game, your next game is on us.