Michael Hathorus (he/him)
5.0
(67)
3 years on StartPlaying
315 games hosted
Highly rated for: Storytelling, Teacher, Inclusive
About me
--- Audio Bio --- DM and Host of the Podcast "With Sword and Spell." Want a preview of my playstyle and our typical session? 100% of the players started with StartPlaying.Games - I knew NONE of them before the campaign started. Listen for free on Spotify, Apply, Stitcher and more: https://linktr.ee/withswordandspell?utm_source=linktree_profile_share<sid=18098ffb-6a59-46d8-829b-7186297de8a2 ---- Written Bio --- I first started playing D&D when I heard it being played during recess during 3rd grade. I became a DM shortly thereafter and have been playing ever since. I have played every edition of D&D, as well as several other systems, but my default is D&D 5e. More systems may be added in the future. I offer players a mix of Role Play, skill challenges, puzzles, and (of course) combat through a series of homebrew worlds and events. I am an author of dozens of worlds some of which I have self-published through DMsGuild, though those are not the worlds you will play in ;) I also can run my players through lightly-modified versions of officially produced WOTC content IF requested. D&D is a place where you, my dear players, can right wrongs, defeat the unjust, and find fantastical treasure in roughly four to five hours per session of pure escapism. You are the hero, I am not your enemy (though I will play those enemies ably) and we're all here to have a great time that we'll talk about for weeks or months later! My rules as DM: * Not "No" but still grounded "Yes, and..." or "Maybe..." * LGBTQ+ safe space * No Ageism, sexism, racism, ableism, or other discrimination ever allowed * Clear Red Lines prior to play (what is NEVER allowed) * Negotiable Veils prior and during play (what can be implied or hinted, but not expicitly stated) * Responsible and responsive play; open door policy about character, setting, play style, etc
GM Style
Role Play-centric with a cast of characters whose voices may or may not be good, but whose personality will always be memorable. Puzzles and challenges to test your wits (or, at least, the wits of your characters) Combat that can range from super-dungeon delve to seemingly-random but will never be superfluous or forgettable Prefer homebrew games to run, but will run official adventures if requested. LGBTQ+ safe, anti-discriminatory Lines & Veils Check-ins and feedback
Games played
Game platforms used
Game Master Reviews (67)
Proficiencies
Players say this GM is great at:
Storytelling
Teacher
Inclusive
Tom
Played 51 sessions
I just wrapped up one of Michael's original campaigns and I can't recommend him enough. A great DM who's creative, fun, fair, and welcoming to newbies and veteran players alike. Not only does he know the rules, but he goes deep on the lore and storytelling, too. One of the best DM's I ever played with.
Aki
Played 52 sessions
I've played with many GM's and Michael is a level above the pack. He is extremely composed and seems to genuinely be enjoying himself as much as the players are. If you're a new player, or a veteran looking for a chilled out enjoyable campaign please look no further.
Linda
Played 1 sessions
Michael did a great job explaining the rules to us as it was our first time as well as give us enough freedom build the world with him.
Kate
He was honestly better than I could have imagined. This was my family's first time playing on Startplaying and he made us all feel welcome. He allowed my 7 year old, who has never played before, to be creative and engaged everyone participating in his story telling. I highly recommend and can't wait to play again.
Chibichangeling
Really cute game! It was refreshing and fun!!! Highly recommend! <3
Courtney
Played 66 sessions
Great DM. He is always well prepared for all sessions (even with our chaotic group). The fun voices are great both how they sound and how they encompass a character.
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