Ian
he/him
5.0
(9)
Timezone
Language
About Ian
Hi, I’m Ian! I’m a narrative-focused GM, the creator of Tabletop RPG Music (where I compose original music specifically for use at the table), and part of the in-house team developing Ember for Foundry VTT. I’ve been running games for years across a bunch of systems, always chasing strong story beats, memorable NPCs, and character arcs that actually go somewhere. My background in writing and music shapes a lot of my approach... and I’m also a regular at my local improv class, which means I love reacting in the moment and letting scenes twist in fun, unexpected ways based on player choice. Whether you’re brand new or a long-time player, you’ll get a friendly, welcoming table where your character’s choices genuinely influence the world we’re shaping together. If you’re looking for a GM who blends creativity, cinematic moments, and a polished virtual setup, I’d love to run a game for you! Shout out to CzePeku Scenes for the Banner art.
At a glance
Less than a year on StartPlaying
2 games hosted
Highly rated for: Storytelling, Sets the Mood, Inclusive
Average response time: 1 hour
Response rate: 100%
Featured Prompts
I got started GMing...
at the London RPG Community, a great group of London-based players and GMs who run games online and in person around the city.
My favorite books are
Iain Banks - The Culture Series
When I'm not running games I'm...
writing music for them.
How Ian runs games
My games are cinematic, character-driven, and emotionally engaging. I like stories where player decisions matter, arcs evolve naturally, and characters develop through meaningful choices and consequences. You can expect: - Rich roleplay: Distinct NPC voices, expressive mannerisms, and scenes shaped by player interaction and spontaneity. - A relaxed, friendly atmosphere: Plenty of out-of-character laughs, memes, and the occasional eccentric shopkeeper. - Purposeful combat: Fast-paced, dramatic encounters that support story stakes. Tactical where the system supports it, and always narratively interesting. - Immersive presentation: Foundry VTT with custom tokens, vistas, and maps from creators such as CzePeku, MarkDrummondJ, and JamesRPGArt, with music (written by me!) that heightens mood without dominating the table. Or TaleSpire for full 3D chaos! If you want a game that blends drama, humour, cinematic style, and off-the-rails storytelling, you’ll feel right at home.
Featured Prompts
I once ran a session...
involving time travel. Every paradox caused resulted in a roll on a random table of chaotic effects. Great fun!
I prep by
following the 8 steps from Return of the Lazy Dungeon Master, and drinking excessive amounts of diet coke.
When it comes to voices
I use ttrpg games as a great excuse to learn accents from around the British Isles and beyond. But no pressure to use voices yourself in my games unless you want to!
Ian's ideal table
My table is a welcoming space perfect for players who enjoy teamwork, narrative focus, and respectful improvisation, with rules used as a solid framework that supports the story rather than overwhelms it. Bring curiosity, enthusiasm, and a character you’re excited to explore. My goal is a fun, atmospheric table where everyone gets spotlight time and the story grows from your choices.
Featured Prompts
I am for a vibe that's...
constantly oscillating between light-hearted fun and intense emotional roleplay.
I love it when a player
involves another player in their backstory. Favourite example: in a Daggerheart campaign I ran, the players decided to be a multi-generational family of frog people.
I think metagaming...
is most fun when it's used to screw your own character over.
Ian's Preferences
Systems