Ernesto Madrigal (The Tavern Arcane) (he/him)
5.0
(83)
4 years on StartPlaying
456 games hosted
Highly rated for: Storytelling, Creativity, World Builder
About me
Ernesto started playing D&D in middle school and hasn't stopped since. He is the founder and co-head of The Tavern Arcane, a live play TTRPG group that provides DMs and GMs for players and are now adapting to online platforms with our current world. Ernesto and The Tavern Arcane have had the luck to host at conventions, game shops, and game bars. Ernesto has DM experience with life long players as well as those brand-new to the game. As the sponsor for his school's D&D club, Ernesto focuses on cooperative play, group storytelling, as wells as learning and understanding the mechanics of TTRPGs. Ultimately, Ernesto likes to run a game where everyone can be invested in a story they can tell together.
GM Style
A good GM is always learning and adapting and that is what I try to do. There are as many play styles as there are players and I always want my players to feel involved in the game. I enjoy roleplaying and letting players weave their own story with the GM's hand guiding them but also love the stress of combat never knowing how the dice will land. I strive to have all of those things in my games so players can feel immersed in choices and consequences while still enjoying the story.
Games played
Game Master Reviews (83)
Proficiencies
Players say this GM is great at:
Storytelling
Creativity
World Builder
Martin Gammill-Beck
Played 185 sessions
I've known neto for about a year now, hes a pretty nice guy and a good DM. 10/10 would recommend.
Kat
Played 154 sessions
Ernesto continues to be one of my favorite GM's on this site. I have yet to play a game with him that was not enjoyable and engaging from start to finish. He does an excellent job of bringing the world to life and allowing the players to rise or fall by their decisions. Every encounter and situation feels like it matters in the context of the game - our characters and the consequences of what we do in game really feel grounded and weighted in reality, which is what makes these games great. I highly recommend Ernesto as a GM and am always excited to see what games he has to offer.
John
Played 137 sessions
I have rarely seen an individual put the time and effort into a game as Ernesto. His rule knowledge is rock solid, his blending of skills and role play into the game are fantastic instead of the old combat loot simulator that many of us have seen. I would be willing to say full in a pay for session you will get your monies worth and then some and his free sessions are just as enjoyable for anyone looking to try one out.
Jordan
Played 114 sessions
I've enjoyed every single session - Ernesto is an amazing DM who clearly cares a great deal for his craft and the players he works with. He builds engaging worlds and characters, is prepared for every game, is a quick-witted, detailed improvisor in any scenario, is extremely knowledgeable about rules and willing to answer questions, and he makes every session enjoyable in both good times and those times where you know you might have just made a poor decision in-game. Highly recommended!
Kim Griffith
Played 113 sessions
This is my first foray into DnD, and having a fantastic GM means that I'll definitely be back! I was pretty intimidated by the variety of information and characters to choose from, but Ernesto was extremely patient and helpful. He creates a story and characters that are natural to interact with, and every session comes with new laughs and high points. He does an excellent job of creating a comfortable environment for every player while still engaging veterans to the game. 10/10!
Seth
Played 103 sessions
Ernesto does an amazing job of communicating with his players to help each one have their own little story arch and subtle nuances in interactions based on your character story. Does a great job of balancing RP, combat, and puzzles in his campaign.
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