Michael
he/him
5.0
(7)
Timezone
Language
About Michael
I’m a storyteller at heart and a worldbuilder by trade — literally! I’m a published freelance writer for Pathfinder, and I bring that same creative energy into every game I run. Whether I’m expanding on a published setting or crafting a universe from scratch, I love giving players a world that feels alive, textured, and ready to explore. My tables lean narrative-first, with a focus on character, story, and meaningful choices — but don’t worry, I can run a crunchy, tactical combat with the best of them when the system calls for it (and I actually enjoy it!). I run regular campaigns both in-person and online, and I love welcoming new players and helping them find their groove, whether it’s their first session or their hundredth. I’m a system polyglot with a passion for variety. Right now, I’m deep into Traveller, Forged in the Dark games, Spire, Call of Cthulhu, and Delta Green, but I’ve got deep roots in old-school D&D and both Pathfinder 1e and 2e. If you’re looking for a GM who’s excited to tell great stories, teach the game, and help your character shine, you’ve found your seat at the table. Let’s play.
At a glance
Less than a year on StartPlaying
7 games hosted
Highly rated for: Knows the Rules, Inclusive, Creativity
Featured Prompts
I became a GM because
I started in the '80s as the “other” GM in our friend group and got hooked on worldbuilding. Years later, I ran Pathfinder for my kids—and then most of Chicago. These days, I GM for close friends across many systems, still chasing great stories and strange new worlds.
People are always surprised when I tell them
I’ve blown up tanks for the US Army, raced Ironmans around the world, and I descended from Aaron Burr. Also: my son is Canadian, my dogs outweigh some players, and yes, I still swim like a high school All-American.
When I'm not running games I'm...
rolling dice as a player, hoarding board games, sampling hoppy brews, or pretending a triathlon is just a three-part side quest. By day, I’m an ad exec, but let’s be honest — I'd rather be adventuring.
How Michael runs games
I’m a storyteller at heart and a worldbuilder by trade — literally! I’m a published freelance writer for Pathfinder, and I bring that same creative energy into every game I run. Whether I’m expanding on a published setting or crafting a universe from scratch, I love giving players a world that feels alive, textured, and ready to explore. My tables lean narrative-first, with a focus on character, story, and meaningful choices — but don’t worry, I can run a crunchy, tactical combat with the best of them when the system calls for it (and I actually enjoy it!). I run regular campaigns both in-person and online, and I love welcoming new players and helping them find their groove, whether it’s their first session or their hundredth. I’m a system polyglot with a passion for variety. Right now, I’m deep into Traveller, Forged in the Dark games, Spire, Call of Cthulhu, and Delta Green, but I’ve got deep roots in old-school D&D and both Pathfinder 1e and 2e. If you’re looking for a GM who’s excited to tell great stories, teach the game, and help your character shine, you’ve found your seat at the table. Let’s play.
Featured Prompts
I prep by
going overboard — in the best way. I obsessively rewrite, expand, and customize adventures, whether it’s adding depth to a published module or building something from scratch. For me, prep is part of the fun (maybe too much fun).
My games focus on...
immersive storytelling, character-driven roleplay, and building living worlds where your choices matter. Whether we’re navigating political intrigue, investigating cosmic horrors, or storming dungeons, I balance narrative depth with system-savvy play.
When it comes to voices
I dabble! While I’m no master impressionist, I’ll give a voice a shot when it adds to the moment. What I am great at is staying in character — giving each NPC their own perspective, personality, and presence at the table.
Michael's ideal table
My table is welcoming, story-focused, and built on mutual respect. Whether you’re a veteran player or brand new to the hobby, I’ll meet you where you are and help you thrive. Expect immersive roleplay, thoughtful worldbuilding, and just enough tactical challenge to keep things interesting. I love character-driven stories, collaborative problem-solving, and a tone that can shift from heartfelt to hilarious to harrowing — often in the same session. Safety tools are always in place, and we’ll have a Session 0 to make sure everyone’s on the same page. You’ll fit in great if you’re curious, creative, and excited to contribute to a shared story. Bring a cool character idea, a willingness to listen, and maybe a weird accent if you’re feeling bold — but don’t worry, I’ll never make you perform. Just show up ready to play.
Featured Prompts
I love it when a player
dives into the world — whether that’s through bold choices, curious questions, clever tactics, or heartfelt roleplay. Bonus points if they surprise me, connect with other characters, or make the table laugh. I’m here for collaboration, not performance.
My table is not the place for...
spotlight hogs, rules lawyers, or players who ignore consent and boundaries. I’m all for big personalities and creative chaos, but not at the expense of others’ fun. If you can’t respect the table, the tone, or your fellow players, this won’t be a good fit.
Michael's Preferences
Systems
Game Mechanics