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Justin Cummings

Justin Cummings (he/him)

5.0

(27)

4 years on StartPlaying

463 games hosted

Highly rated for: Creativity, Voices, Storytelling

About me

I am an experienced GM. I work well with people of all ages and skill levels. I have been running a Learn-to-Play-D&D workshop at my local game store for years. It has helped hone my skills working with people new to the hobby, and leading them through exciting adventures. I love gaming with friends, but some of my favorite moments have sprung from strangers at these learning workshops. I might have a table with two pre-teen sisters, a couple in their twenties, and a retiree in her 60s. All of them new to the game, all of them diving into this experience of imagination, problem-solving, and adventure. In the context of the game, they were peers. It was always wild to be a part of such a discovery. I aim to kindle some of that magic online, with these remote games.

GM Style

I prefer a cinematic, narrative style. I like to summarize and skip as much humdrum accounting and inventory management as I can. Arrows? Rations? Encumbrance? Let's not worry about it. As long as nothing absurd is happening, such as trying to put a horse in your pocket, don't keep track of such things. You will either have plenty of ammunition, or none ammunition, if something happens to deprive you of arrows in the story. I am very patient, great with players of all ages. I try to meet the players where they are at, in terms of mood and style. Some people do their homework and show up at the table ready for a nasty scrap. Others just want to explore a fantastic world and make friends with weird creatures. I can make sure either happens depending on the interactions around the table.

Game platforms used
Game Master Reviews (27)

Proficiencies

Players say this GM is great at:

Creativity

Voices

Storytelling

Jennifer avatar

Jennifer

New review

Played 44 sessions

I played in a campaign run by Justin for over a year, and it was one of the most enjoyable TTRPG experiences I’ve had. He prioritizes storytelling and player creativity over strict number crunching, which kept the game engaging and flexible. Nothing ever felt like a slog—his pacing was smooth, and each session flowed naturally with a great mix of drama, action, and humor. Justin is especially great with new players. He’s patient, encouraging, and creates a welcoming space where everyone feels comfortable contributing. If you're new to D&D or a returning player looking to ease back in, I highly recommend him.

Omar T. avatar

Omar T.

Played 43 sessions

Justin brings a lot to the game. Lots of aids, custom magical items, and interesting twists to the adventures. Players have to opportunity to build themselves up in both directed ways and unexpected ways, and that says a lot about Justin's flexibility and spontaneity. I would, and do, recommend him to anyone looking for an experienced GM.

Roger avatar

Roger

Played 35 sessions

He is just an awesome dude and a solid DM

zach  avatar

zach

Played 33 sessions

Justin is an amazing GM. I was a new player just coming back to D & D after 40 years. He made the transition back to playing easy and fun for me. I highly recommend Justin as a GM!

Justin avatar

Justin

Played 20 sessions

I have recently come back to TTRPGs after a few years. My group and I joined Justin for The Wild Beyond the Witchlight and we have been having so much fun! I don't think I've ever laughed so much at the table. We have all been leaning really hard into the silly, and it has been an absolute joy.

Alesia avatar

Alesia

Played 20 sessions

Justin is fun and patient. He helps new players understand the game, allows for creativity, helps nudge players through analysis paralysis, suggest a hold if players are about to get in over their heads - without tell them how to play.

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