Joseph Carriker (he/him)
5.0
(8)
1 year on StartPlaying
14 games hosted
Highly rated for: Inclusive, Storytelling, Knows the Rules
About me
It's all about the game. I love nothing more than the connection among players that comes with shared experiences, especially when those experiences are centered around peoples' individual creativity (whatever that looks like). I've been playing RPGs since 1986, GMing the entire time (I actually got play in my first game in '89!). I've also been involved in the RPG industry since 2001, and have written for Wizards of the Coast, Green Ronin Publishing, White Wolf, Onyx Path, and quite a few others, and even have a couple of titles up on the DM's Guild. I'm a Forgotten Realms and Spelljammer nerd from way back, though you don't need to be to sit at my table - I'm happy to distill the lore and themes into the best possible story for our table. I'm also the nerd behind the OakthorneWiki, Oakthorne Scrivenings over on the DM's Guild, and the Oneiropolis project on Patreon.
GM Style
Roleplaying and experiencing fantasy settings is my favorite part of the game, and my focus as a storyteller. Focusing on the sorts of play that my players want, pursuing your character's goals, and telling stories that slot uniquely into the setting we're playing in. Very comfortable with game systems, and very good at teaching games to new players.
Games played
Game Master Reviews (8)
Proficiencies
Players say this GM is great at:
Inclusive
Storytelling
Knows the Rules
David
Played 8 sessions
This was my first time using StartPlaying as well as Roll20 and Joe made it so easy and entertaining. He was patient with all of us and made our Session 0 an amazing experience for all of us. It was a very fun and engaging first session and I am so thrilled to get a chance to play with Joe at the helm. Can't recommend enough!
Relielatar
Played 7 sessions
Joe is an amazing GM. He's patient and kind, willing to explain rules and the on line tools used in his games. The clear and coherent use of safety tools and Joe's commitment to having the game space be entertaining and supportive for all the players really shines through!
Steve
Played 6 sessions
Joe is a deeply experienced game designer and a top-notch GM! I love playing at his tables!!
Kurt
Played 6 sessions
I've been a player in games with Joe as the DM/Game Master for over a decade. Joe is an amazing storyteller, and puts so much detail and love into the campaigns he runs. He's also dedicated to working with his players and making sure they have a good time. When I want advice on how to be a better Game Master, regardless of the game, Joe is the one I go to for advice. He is highly recommended.
Dan
Played 5 sessions
Joe is an amazing DM that’s been part of the industry for 30 years, and it shows. Sessions run smooth, he’s a great storyteller, and his maps are amazing! NPC’s feel fleshed out and interesting, and I love that he is very collaborative with me, and helps my character evolve in fun ways!
Jon
Played 5 sessions
Joe was great. Completely on top of everything. Knew the rules well and explained the Roll20 interface well. He also had all sorts of extras already uploaded into Roll20 (alarm spell overlay, my familiar's token and stats, etc.) plus all the adventure and campaign information visible to us or linked to Google docs if he created them. Had a great time and this was only the first session!
What's StartPlaying?
Tabletop Roleplaying Games Run by Game Masters
Find a game to join solo or search for a professional game master for you and your friends/coworkers/family.
Book your session and wait for the Game Master to approve you.
If you don't have a blast with your first game, your next game is on us.