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Sage

Sage (he/him)

5.0

(1)

Podcaster
Neurodivergent
Published Writer
Game Designer

2 years on StartPlaying

1 game hosted

Highly rated for: Visual Aid, World Builder, Sets the Mood

About me

Hello! I'm Sage, a Game Master whose passion for storytelling extends across multiple mediums - from filmmaking and video editing to podcasting. This diverse background influences how I craft and share stories at the gaming table. I specialize in creating immersive worlds filled with intricate characters and rich lore, but the most compelling stories emerge through collaboration with enthusiastic players like you. My experience in different storytelling formats helps me adapt to various player styles and needs. Whether you're new to TTRPGs or a veteran player, my table is a space where you can feel comfortable being yourself. I pride myself on fostering an environment where everyone can contribute to and enjoy our shared narrative. My goal is simple: ensure everyone has a great time while crafting unforgettable stories together. This collaborative approach to storytelling shapes every aspect of my games, from the initial concept to the final session. Let me share how this works in practice:

GM Style

Roleplaying > Rollplaying ➡️Story Approach My games emphasize narrative depth and player impact through: __Storytelling Style • Narrative-driven gameplay that unfolds as a dynamic conversation between players and GM • Theater-of-the-mind approach for most scenarios, enhancing imagination and flexibility • Rich world-building that incorporates environment, politics, and hidden elements • Visual aids and handouts to bring key scenes and information to life __Player Agency • Your actions directly shape the story and world around you • Every choice carries weight, from local matters to world-changing decisions • Character decisions influence not just the immediate situation, but future story developments • Freedom to approach situations through roleplay, problem-solving, or other creative solutions __Story Structure • Multi-layered plots that combine immediate challenges with larger storylines • Organic narrative development based on player choices and world events • Stories that scale naturally with your characters' growing influence • Meaningful consequences that reflect both actions and inactions To bring these stories to life effectively, I've developed a specific approach to campaign organization that supports both structure and flexibility. ➡️Campaign Structure __Campaign Format • Structured like television seasons, typically running 12-30 sessions • Clear narrative arcs with satisfying beginnings and conclusions • 3-4 hour sessions with regular breaks for comfort • Session Zero to establish characters, expectations, and group dynamics __Story Environment • A carefully crafted world filled with opportunities for exploration and interaction • Pre-planned (but not limited to) story elements and potential plot threads ready to unfold • Freedom to choose which paths to follow and how to approach challenges • Dynamic mix of planned content and responsiveness to player choices __Character Progression • Natural growth from novice adventurers to influential figures • Opportunities to build reputation and forge meaningful connections • Character development that meshes with the evolving narrative • Achievement milestones that feel earned and significant Note: While this structure forms the foundation of my campaigns, specific games may vary in focus - from story-heavy adventures to more specialized experiences. Check individual game listings for details about particular campaigns. Creating these rich narrative experiences requires clear expectations and communication from everyone involved. Here's what you can expect at my table: ➡️Table Expectations __Communication • Open dialogue encouraged - ask questions and share concerns freely • Regular check-ins to ensure everyone's comfort and enjoyment • Brief player survey required before joining to ensure group compatibility • Clear communication about attendance and scheduling expectations __Group Dynamics • Focus on creating a collaborative, supportive playing environment • Respect for fellow players' time, ideas, and contributions • Zero tolerance for disruptive or toxic behavior • Inter-player conflicts addressed promptly and professionally • Equal opportunity for everyone to shine in their role __Session Etiquette • Regular breaks every hour for comfort • Players free to step away briefly when needed (just mute and notify) • Note-taking encouraged to track story elements and plot threads • Active participation and engagement expected during gameplay. If you're new or shy, this is no problem while you get comfortable! :] __Player Support • Welcoming to all experience levels • Patient guidance provided for learning game mechanics • Support for character development and integration • Equal consideration given to different playstyles • Commitment to making everyone feel comfortable and included I strive to create an environment where everyone can enjoy themselves while respecting both the game and each other. My vetting process helps ensure a positive experience for all players by maintaining group compatibility and shared expectations. Finally, to ensure everyone knows what to expect from our adventures together, let me outline the kinds of themes and content you'll encounter in my games: ➡️Content Guidelines __Thematic Elements • Stories explore thought-provoking themes including: - Power dynamics and corruption - Moral dilemmas and ethical choices - Personal growth and inner conflict - Faith, doubt, and belief systems - Justice and consequences - Nature, survival, and adaptation - War and its impacts • Themes serve the narrative without pushing any particular viewpoint • Complex situations that encourage character development • Emphasis on meaningful character choices and their consequences __Content Boundaries • No unnecessarily explicit or gratuitous violence • No detailed descriptions of torture or trauma • No sexual violence or explicit content • Limited romantic content, requiring unanimous consent • Any approved romantic elements remain tasteful and background-appropriate • Gore and violence described contextually without graphic detail __Safety and Comfort • Clear content warnings provided before campaigns begin • Regular check-ins to ensure player comfort • Open communication about sensitive content • Respect for player boundaries and limits • Additional safety tools and guidelines detailed in Discord Remember: While our stories may explore serious themes, they're designed to create engaging narratives, not to make anyone uncomfortable. Your enjoyment and comfort are always the priority.

Sage's Games
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