GM D-Rock (he/him)
5.0
(8)
2 years on StartPlaying
3 games hosted
Highly rated for: Inclusive, Creativity, Sets the Mood
About me
Hello RPG Friends 👋 My name is Derek and I’m here to run games for YOU! I’m a Husband, a Dad, a ex-traveling musician, an Information Systems Manager and tabletop-role playing game enthusiast! When I’m not working or being a family man I’m thinking about creating exciting tales and weaving fun stories for friends with RPG’s like high fantasy D&D, horror and intrigue with Vampire The Masquerade or heist with tactical combat with Rifts or ShadowRun. I’ve been running games since I was a wee lad of 16, some of my most foundational memories are with friends/family rolling dice and building stories together. I think as a musician my natural go-to is to always synchronize with the people around me, so if you join one of my games you’re guaranteed to have a fun but also safe experience. One of my favorite in-game tools are mini games to help break up the story and give players a way to win together. I’ve implemented a ton of these into my home games and you can expect them in yours! I get a lot of my gameplay ideas from fantasy novels or sci-fi movies/shows so if you ever catch me and identify a plot line I've borrowed, you’ll for sure win an inspiration point! :D Specialties: World-Building: Crafting immersive and dynamic worlds is my passion. From intricate maps to rich lore, I strive to create environments that feel alive and ripe for exploration. Narrative Depth: Delve into captivating story arcs woven with intrigue, mystery, and epic showdowns. Your choices shape the narrative, leading to truly unique adventures. Character Development: Your characters are the heart of the story. I provide ample opportunities for growth, development, and memorable roleplaying moments. Flexibility: Whether you're a seasoned player or new to the tabletop scene, I adapt to the needs and preferences of my players, ensuring everyone has a fulfilling experience. Game Systems: Dungeons & Dragons (5th Edition) - Eberron - Forgotten Realms - Dark Sun - Planescape Rifts Starfinder Vampire The Masquerade ( 2nd edition ) Learning: DaggerHeart! And more! I'm always eager to explore new systems and settings. What to Expect: Engaging Sessions: Prepare for sessions filled with suspense, laughter, and epic moments that will leave you craving more. Inclusive Atmosphere: I prioritize inclusivity, respect, and collaboration at the gaming table. All players are welcome regardless of experience level, background, or identity. Reliable Schedule: I strive to maintain a consistent and reliable schedule to ensure that our adventures progress smoothly. Platforms: I host sessions on platforms like Roll20 for Battle Maps and Voice communication via Discord, these tools enhances our gaming experience, fostering camaraderie and immersion. How to Join: Interested in embarking on an epic quest? Reach out to me via StarPlaying to discuss upcoming campaigns, character creation, and session details. Whether you're a solo player seeking a new group or a party looking for an experienced GM, I'm here to make your tabletop dreams a reality. Let's Forge Legendary Tales Together!
GM Style
I enjoy all aspects of the TTRPG experience but I excel at: 1) Great NPC interactions 2) Following the Rule of Cool / Loose on the rules if it benefits the story 3) Running Fun Encounters 4) Mini Games / Puzzles within sessions 5) Engaging Combat encounters with more than just your hack and slash turns.
Game platforms used
Game Master Reviews (8)
Proficiencies
Players say this GM is great at:
Inclusive
Creativity
Sets the Mood
Carolyn
New review
Played 3 sessions
D-Rock makes you feel as if you are in the middle of the action -- he provides amazing descriptions of what your character senses, incorporates the lore of the world in way that really adds texture to the experience, weaves your character into the story, and really gives you the space to explore the world and your character! He does a great job ensuring all players have the space to participate without disrupting the narrative or game flow, including balancing very experienced players with very new players. Highly recommend!
Raymond Deeb
The DM does well with storytelling and creating an awesome atmosphere. This is my first time being committed to playing Dungeons and Dragons with a group, and Derek is always kind and patient with a new player like me.
Ingyon
Games are really immersive with creative story telling and interesting characters! Highly recommend.
Sseniyn
Derek is really open to player ideas and playing styles. He takes each players' desires and feedback into consideration when preparing for each session. He uses interactive battle maps, props, and minis to enhance gamer experience. He's nonconfrontational and nonjudgmental and just wants to provide the funnest experience for everyone possible. His worlds are detailed and NPCs are always fully fleshed out and memorable. No matter your experience level (beginner or experienced), his one shots and campaigns are everything you could want!
Walker
Derek is kind and fosters a fair environment where the goal is a good experience and happy players
Eddie Janacek
Derek is a great GM! I always have a good time at his table. He breaks up the sessions well, so we get a fair amount of RP to break up the combat encounters. He's even thrown in some mini-games and other fun stuff on occasion to keep it interesting. The presentation is top-notch as well, with animated maps, plenty of minis to represent whatever you may be fighting, and solid background music for every occasion. Also, as a fairly new-ish player, he has been patient enough to answer my questions when they arise and point me in the right direction if I forget how a mechanic works. Highly recommend!
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