StartPlaying logo
game master profile header image
Doug Powis

Doug Powis (he/him)

5.0

(6)

1 year on StartPlaying

4 games hosted

Highly rated for: Creativity, Inclusive, Sets the Mood

About me

Hi, my name is Doug. I've been a Dungeon Master since the end of 2019, primarily running Dungeons & Dragons 5e. I've led adventures from the Sword Coast to Eberron, from Avernus to Xen'drik, and have recently updated to the 2024 ruleset. Beyond D&D, I've also run Mörk Borg, Shadowdark, and Mausritter, and I'm looking forward to exploring more OSR-style games this year—maybe even Call of Cthulhu if I'm feeling brave. I love both the rules and the settings, but I believe the rules exist to support gameplay and fun rather than restrict them. I'm happy to tweak and modify mechanics to fit a group's playstyle. As a Dungeon Master, I strive to be fair and impartial, often leaving uncertain situations to the roll of the dice. I also aim to tailor each adventure to the players, incorporating personal story elements where appropriate within the main arc. What would I like to run for you? I'd love the chance to explore Ravenloft, possibly adapting some classic 2nd and 3rd edition adventures for 5e. I'm also interested in running updated versions of classic modules—my favorite published conversion so far is The Sunless Citadel. I have been working to update the original Grand Conjunction series for Ravenloft to 5th edition, so hopefully I'll be able to offer games in the various Domains of Dread soon. If any of this sounds good, check out my listings!

GM Style

* I focus on storytelling but have years of experience with tactical grid-based play, so I'm comfortable with both. * I have about three voices in my repertoire—so don't expect too much voice acting—but I do my best to give every NPC a distinct voice. * Since I have aphantasia, I like to use visual aids. For short battles, I often run zone-based combat rather than setting up a full grid and map. * I currently use Roll20 and Discord for games, but I've also used Owlbear Rodeo and occasionally experiment with TaleSpire. * I prioritize player enjoyment over rigidly following the module, so creative solutions to obstacles have a good chance of working. * I’ll probably make a mistake at some point—if you catch one, let me know! I'd much rather fix it than overlook a great feature or benefit your character has. * I prefer voice-only communication.

Game platforms used
Game Master Reviews (6)

Proficiencies

Players say this GM is great at:

Creativity

Inclusive

Sets the Mood

Martin avatar

Martin

A truly great and fun DM, who handles the challenges of playing with experienced and completely new characters at the same time with ease. Has put up with my chicanery as a player for many years and continues to do so. To quote my most recent Ebay review in regards to Doug "A++++++++++ will use again"

Tove Wikström avatar

Tove Wikström

Amazing GM, always gets me so immersed in our games! Great at giving opportunities for PC's to show their personalities and includes elements of their background in a natural way. I also really like that decisions matter, and victories feel truly earned and rewarding. ^^

JoTs24 avatar

JoTs24

Great GM! One of the best! He is very knowledge to the lore and rules, and always goes the extra mile to make his sessions fun and immersive. He is very patient, allows each player to get creative with their character and is there to guide and advise if needed. He is very patient with new players, more than willing to assist and guide until someone gets the hang out of it. He will never make someone feel bad for not knowing or being new.

Jonas Willmer avatar

Jonas Willmer

I started playing a year ago and now the thursday sessions with Doug are what I look forward to the most every week!

Alma avatar

Alma

I've been playing at Doug's table for over a year, and he is, hands down, the best DM I've had. The table always feels safe and welcoming, and on the rare occasion that disagreements arise over rules or other matters, Doug is always willing to listen and, if needed, find a fair compromise.

Thomas Skipworth avatar

Thomas Skipworth

An inspiration amongst GMs. Snorelock creates player agency and offers choice in a way I've not experienced before. I have more memorable moments than I could list but the coolest monster intros, saddest PC passings and most memorable NPCs all came from these games. Do yourself a favour and join up!

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.