Simdariak

he/him

5.0

(6)

Timezone

Europe/london

Language

English

About Simdariak

Are you looking for adventures that focus on story, character development, roleplaying, mystery and puzzle solving rather than combat? If so, I may be the GM for you! These are the parts of D&D that have fascinated me since I was first introduced to the game in the 90s. I run adventures and campaigns exclusively in my own world, Sontrea, which I’ve been developing since that time. I’m happy for you to jump into an adventure with just a set of stats and a character name if you like. But on the other hand, if you want to build an elaborate background that will influence the story, I’m equally happy to help you develop that before session one. As a GM, I draw on several elements of my professional and personal background. My experience teaching in commercial and academic contexts helps me create positive, supportive environments for both new and experienced players where everyone feels empowered to contribute to the game in their own way. In my spare time I’m a musician, song writer and poet, and I weave original songs and poems into adventures.

At a glance

3 years on StartPlaying

Highly rated for: World Builder, Creativity, Sets the Mood

$15 per session

Featured Prompts

I got started GMing...

After I got hooked on the way that D&D lets players and GMs co-create the experience.

The three words my players would use to describe me are...

Immersive, creative, dedicated

How Simdariak runs games

My adventures are often intricate mysteries, with vivid NPCs brought to life with voices and acting. But don’t worry if you’re not into the acting side of things yourself - roleplay as much or as little as you’re comfortable with. My games are especially suitable for players who are new to D&D, because you can jump right in with zero knowledge of the mechanics. On the other hand, experienced players are very welcome. But if you’re looking for a GM with a complete mastery of the rules, I’m definitely not for you. Many experienced players will know more about the rules than I do, and that’s absolutely fine by me. Feel free to let me know if you think a particular rule should apply and we’ll discuss it openly. My focus is staying in the flow of the game and creating an immersive atmosphere. Likewise, if you love game mechanics and rolling dice for every action, again I’m not the GM for you. In my adventures you might occasionally get through an entire session without rolling a single dice. Combat is usually designed to move the story forward, and often the optimal solution is not to fight. Anticipating and avoiding danger, or de-escalating and negotiating, are often more effective tactics. The tone of my games is serious overall, but with lots of humour and playfulness on a minute by minute level. My adventures are Theatre of the Mind with minimal tech.

Featured Prompts

I once ran a session...

In a remote, ruined monastery in the middle of a foggy night. It doesn't get more atmospheric than that!

My games focus on...

Mystery, puzzle solving, atmosphere, role playing and immersive story telling.

Simdariak's ideal table

Some of my favourite sessions happen when there's a mix of experienced players willing to share their knowledge without trying to impose their views, and new players unafraid to dive in. The general vibe is fun and humorous on a minute by minute level, but overlayed with a serious intent to get immersed in the story and the lore of the world, and solve whatever mysteries or challenges the adventure presents. I encourage everyone involved to bring their own style to the table, contribute in the way that they are comfortable with, and allow others the freedom to do the same.

Featured Prompts

I love it when a player

Makes an unexpected decision that spins the story off in a whole new direction.

I think metagaming...

Is okay in moderation, especially during breaks. It can actually be quite helpful in moving the story forward. But in key immersive scenes or when individual characters need to make high stakes decisions, expect a polite reminder not to meta game at those moments.

I think min/maxing...

Has its place. Just preferably not at my table...